The University of Nottingham has teamed with component manufacturer e2v to set up a centre to commercialise microwave research being carried out at the University. 

Called the e2v Centre for Industrial Microwave Processing (e2v CIMP), a focus of the research it will carry out will be investigating the benefits of microwave processing for use in a wide range of bulk material processing industries.

According to the partners, this can have implications in minimising the environmental impact of some industrial processes including mining.

For example, microwave technology can be used to stress and fracture rock prior to grinding to minimise the process and so save energy.

“Global industry is currently faced with the need to develop processes which are more sustainable, reduce waste and increase overall efficiency. Microwave processing technologies are one way of meeting these challenges but up until now the road from laboratory to industry has been a difficult one for many reasons,” said Professor Sam Kingman, e2v CIMP director.

The collaboration will see a financial contribution of more than £1 million from e2v, with significant match funding from the university, and will position the two partners at the forefront of developments in energy efficient microwave processing technology.

“The hard work put in by both the academic and industry teams has paid off in the formation of this exciting venture which will enable the flow of people, skills and knowledge between e2v and The University of Nottingham,” said Professor Nick Miles, Associate Dean for External Relations and Internationalisation in the Faculty of Engineering.

The University of Nottingham already has technology transfer partnerships with Rolls Royce, Siemens and BAE Systems.