Promethean wins Global NanoChallenge

University of Nottingham spin-out Promethean Particles has won a global competition proposing new technologies for producing inorganic nano-materials for use in a vast range of sectors. Run by BASF, the world’s largest chemical company, Promethean was the only non-US company to be shortlisted to present their proposal at BASF’s North American headquarters in New Jersey. Despite tough competition, the Nottingham based business impressed the judges with their pitch to win the prestigious international award and a prize of €20,000.

Promethean’s NanoChallenge submission championed a safe and sustainable approach to nanomaterial manufacture. Entitled “A flexible, scalable and sustainable route to inorganic nanoparticle dispersions”, their entry was able to demonstrate to BASF its strong potential for cost-effective scale-up.

Technical Director at Promethean Particles, Ed Lester, who is also Professor of Chemical Technologies at the University of Nottingham, said: “I am very pleased to win the BASF NanoChallenge competition. It opens the door to us to explore what opportunities may exist for new applications as well as uses in existing process lines. We were well prepared for the competition with a lot of confidence in our technology but it’s still a test of nerves to directly compete against other companies from around the globe.”

Guido Voit, Managing Director of BASF New Business GmbH, praised Promethean’s achievements, adding: “Their innovative and versatile technology as well as their professional presentation during the pitch were key reasons behind selecting Promethean Particles as the final winner.”

Dr. Susan Huxtable, Director of Intellectual Property and Commercialisation at The University of Nottingham, added: “The safe, sustainable and flexible process for nanoparticle production developed by Promethean Particles has the potential to make a significant impact on the nanoparticle industry. It is very pleasing to see their technology being recognised at a global level.”

This year BASF celebrates its 150th anniversary. Its “Creator Space” initiative encourages global collaborative solutions to industry challenges.