On 20 November 2024, iCAST, in collaboration with the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), hosted an insightful webinar focused on fostering industry/academic partnerships using synchrotron and neutron beamtime facilities. This event underscored iCAST’s pivotal role in translating cutting-edge research into commercial solutions, showcasing the transformative potential of these advanced tools for material characterisation.
Experts from Diamond Light Source (DLS), ISIS Neutron and Muon Source, academia, and industry shared insights on applying synchrotron and neutron beamtime to real-world challenges. Discussions explored the immense potential for future joint projects and the role of partnerships in driving innovation.
The webinar also detailed various pathways for accessing these state-of-the-art research tools, including peer-reviewed and proprietary research models. Case studies highlighted successful collaborations between industry and academia, demonstrating practical integration with facilities like DLS and ISIS Neutron and Muon Source.
Key highlights:
- Innovating for sustainable technologies:
iCAST, a hub for connecting businesses with cutting-edge scientific expertise, demonstrated its commitment to fostering sustainable innovations. By bridging the gap between industry and academia, and facilitating access to world-class research facilities, iCAST empowers SMEs to enhance their competitiveness, drive real-world impact, and turn innovative ideas into tangible solutions. - Exploring DLS:
Participants learned about the UK’s national synchrotron facility, DLS, which provides unparalleled X-ray capabilities for exploring matter at the molecular and atomic levels. Real-world applications spanned pharmaceuticals, energy, and consumer goods, with flexible access models for industry that include competitive peer-reviewed and proprietary research opportunities. - STFC’s support for R&D excellence:
Advanced tools such as ISIS Neutron and Muon Source were highlighted for their role in tackling industrial challenges, with techniques like Small Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS) aiding research in areas such as the circular economy and sustainable materials. - Sustainable materials solutions:
A case study on Hydropol, a sustainable polymer developed by Aquapak, demonstrated how advanced techniques at ISIS are addressing environmental challenges by improving the material’s thermal degradation and crystallisation properties. - Synergising industry and academia through neutron scattering:
A success story with illustrated the power of joint research positions, where collaborative efforts between Johnson Matthey, a leading multinational company, and STFC leveraged neutron scattering to advance fields like catalysis and hydrogen technology.
The event provided a platform for sharing knowledge, exploring collaboration opportunities, and showcasing the impact of synchrotron and neutron facilities in diverse sectors. By connecting academia, industry and national facilities, iCAST and its partners aim to unlock new pathways for innovation and drive tangible outcomes for global challenges.
To explore how synchrotron and neutron beamtime can benefit your research or business, contact iCAST (icast@bath.ac.uk) and Graham Appleby at STFC (graham.appleby@stfc.ac.uk).
Find out more about Joint Industry Projects.
