Technology that could change the face of the construction and nuclear industries has been developed by Lucideon
MIDAR® Technology, which allows materials to solidify without the need for firing and processing at high temperatures, could provide a low-energy alternative in the manufacture of construction products.
Its unique qualities could also provide a winning formula to encapsulate waste in sectors including the nuclear industry.
The technology has recently undergone successful feasibility trials in collaboration with Sellafield Ltd in the management of low and Intermediate Level Waste (ILW) and is set to be used in larger-scale trials in the future.
Lucideon, which has its headquarters in Stoke-on-Trent and a growing presence in the US, has deployed a team of scientists and engineers to develop the concept.
Tony Kinsella, Chief Executive at Lucideon, said: “As the concept has gone through research, development and trials, we've been conscious of the fact that we’ve developed something that will have a profound effect, not only in the UK, but around the world.
“It's a technology that we think will make a major impact in the future.
“It offers many benefits, from lower energy consumption and therefore lower emissions of greenhouse gases, through to higher throughput in manufacturing by eliminating the need for the current high temperature and time consumptive processes.
“We are continuing to explore other applications with our customers in the UK and overseas.
“Materials technology is increasingly being see as one of the key competitive advantages for industry in the 21st century.
“The translation of science and engineering into commercial products for the market is very much on the Government's agenda – and the UK has historically been at the bottom of the world league in this area.
“MIDAR® Technology is indicative of our ability to assist industry to transform and enhance the economy and the environment, and its development is a landmark moment in Lucideon's history.”
A leading provider of materials development, testing and assurance to a range of sectors including ceramic, construction, healthcare and power generation, Lucideon was originally borne out of the British Ceramics Research Association.
It has since evolved into one of the UK’s major success stories, harnessing innovation to produce ground-breaking developments in advanced materials.
Lucideon has taken ceramics technology into many new and innovative areas, including working with orthopaedic implant manufacturers and other high technology businesses. The company is also a hub for the development of construction materials and technologies.
The development of MIDAR® Technology is the latest success for the company, which recently announced it is opening up a new facility in North Carolina to tap into the region’s acclaimed expertise in materials science, and have better access to USA markets.
The new centre is in addition to Lucideon's facilities in South Carolina and New York State.
This new venture is part of Lucideon's ongoing programme of investment, which will see the company increase its workforce by over 50 per cent over the next three years, with the majority of new roles based in Stoke-on-Trent.
Lucideon currently has just over 200 employees, of which a high proportion are graduates and post graduates in science and engineering
November 2014