Maturity of knowledge inputs and the breakthrough of key core technology

Mature knowledge offers worthy technological resources and potential realization paths for key core technology breakthroughs. We conduct an empirical study to investigate the relationship between maturity of knowledge inputs and breakthrough of key core technologies based on the patent data of China’s chip industry from 1985 to 2020. A contingency approach to discuss the moderating role of recombinant frequency and lag is further used to provide insights into the knowledge recombination theory. Compared with merely relying on nascent or overly mature knowledge, moderate mature knowledge inputs can provide greater recombinant value for key core technology breakthroughs. The recombinant frequency could moderate the inverted U-shaped relationship between knowledge maturity and key core technology breakthrough, while the recombinant lag could strengthen the promotion effect of knowledge maturity. This study offers a novel path to achieve self-sustainability and self-improvement of key core technology. It also provides theoretical supports and practical references for the strategy of knowledge recombination and the awakening of dormant research.