BROOKLYN, NY – South Korean automotive interior materials manufacturer Unichem has signed a term sheet to acquire flexible electronics company Loomia Technologies for up to $6 million, with plans to expand the technology into robotics, automotive, medical and other applications.
Loomia develops Loomia Electronic Layer (LEL) technology, an ultra-thin flexible electronic circuit structure that can be integrated into materials such as leather and textiles to provide functions including heating and pressure and temperature sensing.
Unichem plans to combine Loomia's flexible electronics technology with its materials manufacturing and processing capabilities to develop large-area electronic skin for humanoid robots. Potential applications include robot hands, grippers and exterior surfaces capable of sensing pressure, contact location and slippage.
The companies also see opportunities beyond robotics. Loomia has been selected to provide a seat heating solution for a Volkswagen Group ecosystem vehicle program through automotive supplier Sabelt, and its technology could be applied to medical devices, wearables and smart automotive interiors. Unichem also plans to investigate its use for thermal sensing in AI data centers.
The proposed transaction values Loomia at up to $6 million and includes cash, Unichem shares and earn-out payments tied to technology development and commercialization milestones. A final agreement remains subject to due diligence and negotiations.
Unichem plans to retain Loomia founder Madison Maxey and key R&D personnel, with the company's Brooklyn operation serving as a North American R&D and market development hub.