Silicones driving the digital ecosystem

Digitalisation has become a driver of policy, an area which the EU is trying to enhance its competence and strength, with the objective of securing technological sovereignty in the long run. These efforts are underpinned by several regulatory initiatives such as the EU Chips Act, a potential EU Chips Act 2.0,  the Gigabit Infrastructure Act (GIA), and the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Continent Action Plan. Europe is demonstrating its commitment to becoming a global leader in the digital economy.   

To truly deliver on this goal, however, the EU needs cutting edge technologies that enable innovation throughout the bloc. Silicones are a great example of enabling technologies, sustaining semiconductors, gigabit connectivity, and telecommunications operations. 

A sustainable digital future 

Silicones are not just supporting players but foundational enablers of the EU’s transition to climate neutrality, digitalisation, circularity, all while maintaining competitiveness. 

One of the most pressing challenges in the digital sector is energy consumption, particularly in data centres that power AI applications. By improving heat dissipation, silicones reduce the need for energy-intensive cooling systems and enable hardware to operate smoothly for longer periods. Silicones are also key to securing a reliable semiconductor supply chain, contributing to various stages of chip manufacturing, thermal management, and encapsulation. These materials play an indispensable role in ensuring the performance and reliability of the hardware that underpins modern technology. 

Silicones ensure reliable high-speed data transmission and protect against harsh environmental conditions. They are essential for universal access to fast Gigabit connectivity and mobile data. Silicones are critical components in the infrastructure that supports modern communication technologies, including fibre optic cables and routers, telecommunications equipment (such as satellites, smartphones, and antennas), computers and laptops, and 5G infrastructure.  

Circularity, a key priority in the EU agenda, is equally vital in the digital world –where silicones play an essential role driving progress. They minimise electronic waste by extending the lifespan of electronic devices through improved durability and reliability, reducing the frequency of replacements.  

Key enablers of EU digital innovation 

Silicones boost digital innovation. For instance, cutting-edge advancements in 3D printing technology are leveraging medical-grade silicones to revolutionise healthcare. Scientists in Zurich are developing custom-made heart valves by first creating personalised samples from patient scans and then using them to manufacture valves that mimic their biological counterparts in both geometry and functionality. Beyond healthcare, these innovations also intersect with emerging fields like soft robotics and collaborative robots (cobots), which are poised to transform manufacturing and medical applications in the future. An innovative millirobot, crafted from silicone, exemplifies this potential. Currently under development, it demonstrates simultaneous movement and sensing, with its inherent flexibility enabling navigation in confined spaces and terrain recognition. This technology holds promise for applications like industrial inspection. Recognised as a priority in the EU Rolling Plan 2025 and supported by the euROBIN program, robotics highlight how silicones play a key role in enabling precision, adaptability, and life-saving advancements across industries. 

The EU’s ambition to lead in digital innovation and sustainability relies on materials like silicones that make technological progress possible. The growing reliance on digital technologies across industries underscores the urgency for the EU to keep pace with rapid technological advances occurring globally.  

The European silicone industry is vital for developing and deploying technologies that will shape Europe’s future. As policymakers shape the future of Europe’s digital landscape, it is vital to recognise the essential role of silicones in powering the digital ecosystem.