The COAST (Collaborative Outreach in Applied Surface engineering Technologies) project will support the development of customised nanoparticles from university research into commercially viable engineered surfaces and composites. The partnership combines Durham University’s expertise in nanomaterials and synthesis of engineered particles, with CPI’s capabilities to enhance up-scaling, prototyping and applications of the technology, to help SMEs realise the market value of their innovations.
Nanomaterials and surface engineering are forecast to be a major disruptive technology, with their lightweight and enhanced properties presenting energy-efficient applications in industries such as aerospace, automotive and offshore. The project is exclusively available to businesses in County Durham, meaning COAST will capitalise on the developing nanomaterial ecosystem in the area to attract inward investment and create high value jobs in both the SME community and supply chain.
The COAST project will be delivered from existing CPI facilities within the North East Technology Park site and a bespoke laboratory at Durham University. To underpin the programme, CPI has also developed a range of business support tools to promote innovation, product design and business excellence. It is hoped that the COAST project will establish successful links between higher education and businesses to create sustainable delivery of engineered surfaces beyond culmination of the project in 2020.
Professor Karl Coleman, head of the department of chemistry at Durham University and academic lead for the COAST project, said: “This is a great opportunity for CPI and Durham to work together to help local industry take a national lead in the commercialisation of nanomaterial-enhanced products and materials. The Chemistry Department and Durham University are committed to supporting the local region and are looking forward to working with and propelling forward our high-tech local SMEs.”
