The MULTILAYER project will set up an efficient mass production method for microdevices enabling fabrication series over a million units. This process will be cost-effective due to the combination of shaping and mounting procedure in one step and will reveal a high added value due to high complexity, increased accuracy of the multi-material, and multi-functional products. By using ceramic tape technology, the manufacturing processes can be configured continuously and with a high level of automation. Both factors give the opportunity for cost-effective production. Subsequent processes of structuring and lamination allows a high flexibility concerning design of the ceramic component and the potential of cost-efficiency and high flexibility allow a fast production on demand for diverse micro-structured parts from small batches to a high number of pieces. In order to evaluate the potential of the MULTILAYER process for a wide range of materials, component functionality and feature sizes, 5 micro-devices for industrial case studies have been included. These micro devices will hence be the first markets impacted by the results of the project if successful.

Reinforcing the European knowledge base

The MULTILAYER consortium is composed of 19 beneficiaries from France, Sweden, Germany, Italy, United Kingdom, Norway and Poland. Each partner has been selected for their specific expertise and such a highly innovative project of wide scope could not be undertaken by one nation. The technology arising from the project should have positive outcome for the environment through the development of aqueous based tapes eliminating toxic organic solvents.