Photonics

Photonics - key technology of the 21st century

The technical use of light – photonics for short – enables countless applications in the industrial and private sectors that would be unthinkable without this key technology.

The internet is based on data transmitted via fiber optics that orbit the earth at the speed of light; displays, cameras and sensors on smartphones are the interfaces to our human senses; and doctors can carry out precise diagnoses and therapies that are efficient and gentle thanks to optical systems.

Today, the photonics sector is a global high-tech industry with above-average growth rates. Automotive manufacturers, machine builders, life sciences companies and manufacturers of medical products demand customized optical solutions from our manufacturers that require a high level of expertise and quality awareness.

Important fields of application include production technology, measurement technology, medical technology, communication technology, information technology, security and defense. In 2019, the 1,000 German companies and their 142,500 employees achieved a turnover of €37.5 billion.

Industry structure

The products of the photonics industry are mainly used in global value chains. Around 70% of the products are exported. Almost all companies in the sector are in global competition, particularly with companies in North America and Asia.

Photonics manufacturers in Germany are largely medium-sized companies with specialized product portfolios that they use to serve system integrators in a wide range of application areas. The business is predominantly in the business-to-business sector. Some companies also serve consumer goods markets.

Products & Technologies

Laser technology, LEDs and OLEDs
Optical fibers for power and information transmission
Imaging optics such as cameras, microscopes and endoscopes
Optical sensors

Customers & Markets

Production technology
Medical technology
Automotive engineering, automotive construction
Measurement technology and sensors