We have developed sustainable technologies that address unmet needs in the chemicals sector through academic research at the University of Oxford. Chemicals companies are interested in our technologies because they remove the need for toxic reagents, minimise the production of carbon-based waste products and lower energy demands compared to existing manufacturing routes. Our biocatalyst systems can be operated in continuous flow, allowing sustainability at the same time as improving productivity, overall allowing cheaper, faster, cleaner and safer production of speciality chemicals (e.g. pharmaceutical, flavours and fragrances).

During the project we will produce prototype catalysts, and distribute them to industry partners. Using their feedback we will carry out product development research towards launch of our first commercial product: a 'bio-flow column' that allows clean and safe reactions with exquisite precision. We will also demonstrate our catalyst systems at pilot scale for kg production of a fine chemical.

This project will allow us to form a spinout company, and take our technologies from academic research to commercial product, and will ultimately play a part in cleaning up the chemicals sector.