Project Examples
Flexible batteries
We have developed a flexible, polymeric, rechargeable battery technology with superior peak power performance. The technology’s flexibility makes it particularly suitable for on-body patches. IP on this technology is available for licensing.
Thermoelectric generator
We have developed a flexible, printable, low-cost thermoelectric generator (TEG) able to harvest waste heat and turn it into electricity. Its form factor allows it to deploy on curved surfaces such as pipes, unlike conventional rigid TEGs. It is suitable for IoT applications, for example a network of self-powered sensors able to detect equipment failure. IP on this technology is available for licensing.
Battery anode protection layer
Dendrite growth is a major limitation of lithium-based rechargeable batteries. Its elimination could result in significant advances in energy capacity, power and recharge rate. We are working on innovative solutions to prevent dendrite build-up while maintaining compatibility with existing battery manufacturing processes.
Early Stages of Interest
Water scarcity
The increase in the world population, together with an increase in pollution from plastic, agrochemicals and healthcare contaminates, is putting a tangible strain on basic resources such as water. We are exploring how a materials company can provide solutions to this problem.
Squeezed cities
By 2050 it is expected that 70% of the world population will be living in cities, with predictable strains on resources such as housing, water, energy, waste management and green spaces. We are exploring how a materials company can provide solutions to this problem.
Triboelectric
Harvesting electrical energy from the mechanical motion of rubbing surfaces could provide power for a range of applications. We are collaborating with academic institutions to develop a triboelectric technology that is both robust and repeatable.
Carbon capture and utilisation
Decarbonisation of the atmosphere and the creation of value-added materials by capturing CO2 and converting it into chemical feedstock. Our investigation focuses on an electrochemical approach to achieve the conversion.
Electrolytic ammonia synthesis
The economies of renewable power will make some parts of the world net generators and others net consumers of electricity. This creates a demand for an energy transportation vector that is more efficient than giant cables. Liquid ammonia is a potential solution, but a more sustainable manufacturing method is required. We are working on a novel, green electrolytic process.
Polymer actuators for soft robotics
We are exploring the possibility of using a new type of electroactive polymers as actuators for soft robotic applications. The polymers respond to an external stimulus and change shape, thereby producing a force that can be used to create movement.
