Demonstrator projects in polymer science and technology

These short-term projects are designed to evaluate the commercial potential of products, processes and applications arising from research at the Polymer Centre. Over the last year seventeen demonstrator projects were funded, covering a wide range of topics including:

• Smart polymer films and coatings for barrier applications
• Smart polymers as responsive scaffolds for tissue engineering
• Feasibility study for a new semi-conducting polymer based pressure sensor
• Polymers for solar energy conversion
• Smart hydrogels as ripeness indicators in perishable goods

The outcomes of these projects have been excellent, as demonstrated by the summary below:

• Three projects have attracted direct industrial funding/interest
• Eight have moved onto the Commercial Assessment System
• Two projects were successful in finding further research funding
• Two demonstrated to concept/idea was not feasible and/or marketable
• Only two projects did not give a clear outcome

These results demonstrate the efficiency of this programme, which can be recommended for industries wanting to 'test the water' with new technologies.

One method for carrying out such a project is through FaraPack Polymers Ltd., which gives companies the opportunity to get involved with a project, or suggest a project of direct interest to your company. More information is available in the accompanying leaflet. The leaflet focuses on packaging technologies, reflecting the Polymer Centre's interest in this field through FaraPack Labs, but enquiries about technologies for other applications are welcomed:

Collaborative programme (PDF, 200 kB download).