• Next phase focused on beta prototype development
• Silicon selected for current prototype builds
• Graphene remains Archer's next-generation chip platform

Archer Materials Limited (ASX: AXE) has provided an update on the progress of its Biochip program following the completion of the Stage 1 project with IMEC. The company has now moved on to the development of a beta-prototype, which will be suitable for external use and will combine the silicon sensing chip, Archer's functionalisation of the chip, chip design, cartridge and microfluidics, readout methodology, and electronics. This optimised and robust system is designed for external testing and pre-clinical trials, as well as accelerating in-house development of potassium testing and feasibility studies for Archer's pipeline of Biochip applications. The key differentiator in Archer's technology is not the underlying chip substrate, but rather the company's proprietary functionalised sensing layer, surface chemistry, sensing chip design, and associated signal processing methodology. This core intellectual property can be deployed on various semiconductor sensing chip architectures and for many sensing applications, significantly de-risking manufacturing and commercialisation. The next major milestone is the development of the beta prototype, which will involve engineering a user-ready cartridge format, integrating readout electronics and software, testing for further iteration on ease-of-use, and shelf-life and storage stability testing. By using the beta prototype externally, Archer can continue developing the hardware towards the final medical diagnostic product, as well as optimise important use-case items like blood sample workflow and user experience, which are key for preparation for clinical trials and data collection required for regulatory approval.

Archer is now focused on translating the outcomes of the alpha prototype stage into a beta prototype system and advancing its partnership with IMEC into the next phase of product development. This work will support the company's pathway to clinical trials and ultimately bring a practical, easy-to-use diagnostic product to market.