Kirklees firms with big ideas could benefit by "small-scale" help from the University of Huddersfield's Centre for Precision Technologies (CPT)...

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 09:28:00 GMT

The CPT has linked up with the universities of Leeds, Bradford, York, Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam to set up a Nanofactory. Aimed at forging partnerships with firms interested in making the most of latest advances in nanotechnology, this three-year project is part-funded by regional development agency Yorkshire Forward with a total of £200 000 being awarded to the CPT.

Between them the universities have 6000 to 10 000 contacts and, as part of brining businesses together, the project aims to encourage SMEs to consider how experts in the field of nanotechnology could help them develop new products and improved processes - to generate more jobs and wealth. Financing research and development to drive nanotechnology innovation forward is often out of reach for SMEs but, through partnerships with Nanofactory universities, SMEs will be able to explore this new area of technology and potentially apply for a range of external funding - for example European Union funding and Technology Strategy Board grants.

Nanotechnology is 'small-scale science' that enables the unique properties and behaviours of particles and materials to be applied in a diverse range of sectors - from makers of medical devices and chemicals to engineering, food technology and construction. The CPT specialitises in the field of surface measurement - while other universities in the partnership cover areas such as friction and wear, micro-moulding and electro microscopy. These skills in surface measurement - often involving particles invisible to the naked eye - could be used to improve products ranging from marine diesel engines to artificial hips and nail files.

The Nanofactory will connect the knowledge and expertise of academic researchers with the needs and challenges of companies in the region. This offers a powerful combination and driver for innovation. As a result, new fundamental and applied research programmes will be stimulated and leading university researchers will seek out funding and partnerships to deliver these.

Read the full interview in the Huddersfield Examiner: http://www.examiner.co.uk/business/business-news/kirklees-business-news/2010/03/16/huddersfield-university-s-nanofactory-set-to-help-firms-86081-26037936/