The discovery of conductive organic polymers, which have varied applications ranging from toys to car interiors and military devices, is set to revolutionise the electronics industry, according to a research report.

Research and development (R&D) of organic polymer conductors are boosting technological developments in flexible electronics, consultancy firm Frost & Sullivan said in its report 'Emerging Trends in Flexible Electronics.'

The developments in flexible electronics are expected to bring about revolutionary changes in the design and conceptualisation of electronic devices in the consumer, medical, and military sectors, the report said.

''This emerging field has demonstrated huge potential for cost reductions, as printed manufacturing techniques are being developed for volume production,'' the report noted.

Besides lowering costs, flexible electronics also features low weight, ruggedness, ease of use and possible transparency of electronics. It will also facilitate new applications for electronics.

Organic semiconductors used in flexible electronics does not compete with silicon devices, rather, they open new avenues of applications that rigid circuits and electronics have not been able to penetrate, the report noted.

While equipment manufacturers, R&D centres and material suppliers are forming strategic partnerships, technology development and commercialisation would depend largely on the manufacturing strength of Asia, the report noted.

The report particularly noted the collaborative approach and the pooling of resources adopted by governments, industries, research institutes, defence establishments and investors in enhancing the performance levels of organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) and dissemination of the technology.

The development of flexible electronics will find use in developing various manufacturing techniques for applications like inkjet printing, vacuum deposition as well as imprint lithography, the report said.

There is still a long way to go before sweeping changes that impact our day-to-day lives takes place, the report added.