Cascade Technologies, a manufacturer of high-technology laser based gas analysers were identified as a Scottish SME who would benefit for ETP support.
The ECS BDM approached them to establish how the ETP KEN project might assist them. Cascade had already identified hydrogen fuel and carbon capture and storage as key areas where new markets might emerge. However, Cascade lacked expertise and contacts in these fields. The BDM made introductions to relevant academic and business contacts. It became clear there were opportunities for Cascade's technology in the hydrogen fuels sector and the BDM proposed an application to the TSB (now Innovate-UK) for funding. The BDM provided support in building the project team, and assisted with the application, which was successful.
The consortium comprises Cascade Technologies, end users BOC and ITM Power and the University of St Andrews who are now collaborating on the development a new tool for the quality assurance of hydrogen fuel. This new laser based approach could mean real-time online chemical analysis of fuel impurities at the fuel pump, without the need for a scientist or laboratory. The Company’s proprietary systems have the capability to measure up to 20 different gases simultaneously, in real-time, at much higher speed and accuracy than any other product on the market This fit-and-forget technology promises to dramatically increase the confidence which tomorrow's drivers can expect to have in their fuel.
The support provided through the KEN project has resulted in major benefits to this Scottish SME, since they have not only received a grant of £602k from Innovate-UK but are working closely with end users in a new market for their technology.