Sustainable Product Engineering Centre for Innovative Functional Industrial Coatings - SPECIFIC

Lead Research Organisation: Swansea University
Department Name: College of Engineering

Abstract

In the UK there are more than four billion square metres of roofs and facades forming the building envelope. Most of this could potentially be used for harvesting solar energy and yet it covers less than 1.8 % of the UK land area. The shared vision for SPECIFIC is develop affordable large area solar collectors which can replace standard roofs and generate over one third of the UK's total target renewable energy by 2020 (10.8 GW peak and 19 TWh) reducing CO2 output by 6 million tonnes per year. This will be achieved with an annual production of 20 million m2 by 2020 equating to less than 0.5% of the available roof and wall area. SPECIFIC will realise this by quickly developing practical functional coated materials on metals and glass that can be manufactured by industry in large volumes to produce, store and release energy at point of use. These products will be suitable for fitting on both new and existing buildings which is important since 50% of the UKs current CO2 emissions come from the built environment.The key focus for SPECIFIC will be to accelerate the commercialisation of IP, knowledge and expertise held between the University partners (Swansea, ICL, Bath, Glyndwr, and Bangor) and UK based industry in three key areas of electricity generation from solar energy (photovoltaics), heat generation (solar thermal) and storage/controlled release. The combination of functionality will be achieved through applying functional coatings to metal and glass surfaces. Critical to this success is the active involvement in the Centre of the steel giant Corus/Tata and the glass manufacturer Pilkington. These two materials dominate the facings of the building stock and are surfaces which can be engineered. In addition major chemical companies (BASF and Akzo Nobel as two examples) and specialist suppliers to the emerging PV industry (e.g. Dyesol) are involved in the project giving it both academic depth and industrial relevance. To maximise open innovation colleagues from industry will be based SPECIFIC some permanently and some part time. SPECIFIC Technologists will also have secondments to partner University and Industry research and development facilities.SPECIFIC will combine three thriving research groups at Swansea with an equipment armoury of some 3.9m into one shared facility. SPECIFIC has also been supported with an equipment grant of 1.2 million from the Welsh Assembly Government. This will be used to build a dedicated modular roll to roll coating facility with a variety of coating and curing functions which can be used to scale up and trial successful technology at the pre-industrial scale. This facility will be run and operated by three experienced line technicians on secondment from industry. The modular coating line compliments equipment at Glyndwr for scaling up conducting oxide deposition, at CPi for barrier film development and at Pilkington for continuous application of materials to float glass giving the grouping unrivalled capability in functional coating. SPECIFIC is a unique business opportunity bridging a technology gap, delivering affordable novel macro-scale micro-generation, making a major contribution to UK renewable energy targets and creating a new export opportunity for off grid power in the developing world. It will ultimately generate thousands high technology jobs within a green manufacturing sector, creating a sustainable international centre of excellence in functional coatings where multi-sector applications are developed for next generation manufacturing.

Planned Impact

The vision for SPECIFIC is a paradigm shift in energy generation through developing low cost macro scale micro generation systems based on a variety of architectural solutions to capture solar energy. The impact map for 2020 is summarised below and in the attached annex this is shown diagramatically together with pathways to achieving impact. SPECIFIC: will be a self funded research development and training facility: Employing 22 Technology Transfer fellows Hosting 30 students with partner universities Self funded revenue streams of 3m PA New equipment investment annually 200k SPECIFIC Wealth Creation; a major theme is creating a new green technology business in the UK based on energy from buildings Target 20 million m2 per annum solar energy manufacturing 500 (+) manufacturing jobs 1500 (+) supply industry jobs 5000 (+) installation sales maintenance jobs New billion pound manufacturing sector Export potential for off grid power SPECIFIC People; a key output are the potential employees and technologists for the proposed new industry sector Minimum of 40 high skilled postgrads 135 trained industry staff Established modular training programme New part time schemes for industry delegate SPECIFIC Knowledge; promotion of scientific endeavour is critical to attracting new partners 88 journal papers 44 conference papers 23 keynote lectures 26 patents registered New energy generating products New modular training courses SPECIFIC Society; the benefits will be local and global Security of energy supply macroscale microgeneration Solar power contributing to UK renewable energy mix Off-grid power for developing countries Environment; there is the potential for the technologies developed to make a major contribution to UK targets 20TWh renewable energy One third of the 2020 UK target Over 6 million tonnes per annum CO2 reduction

Publications

10 25 50
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Andernach R (2015) Synthesis and Exciton Dynamics of Triplet Sensitized Conjugated Polymers. in Journal of the American Chemical Society

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Beatrup D (2014) Polaron stability in semiconducting polymer neat films. in Chemical communications (Cambridge, England)

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Bryant D (2014) Ultrafast near-infrared curing of PEDOT:PSS in Organic Electronics

 
Description In the initial phase of the SPECIFIC project allot of effort has been placed on examining low cost photovoltaics for turning the suns energy into electricity. This work initially built on an earlier grant on DSC technology but in 2013 this moved to a new invention form a partner (Oxford Uni) the perovskite. Critical successes have been to reduce processing times from hours to seconds and to use low cost ingredients. A key success of the project is the development of a very low cost transparent self adhesive electrode material that replaces expensive indium tin oxide. This has allowed the team to make 16% efficient solar cells with very low cost ingredients which compare to world record devices (made with gold electrode) od 17.9% efficiency. The work has been instrumental in joining together the UK photovoltaic community and this now means that the team at Swansea are working with all the world leaders in third generation PV.
Exploitation Route The work is being evaluated by Oxford PV, Tata Steel, BASF and NSG. The target price of PV at 20p per watt peak is about half that of conventional Si modules and building integration can save further offering the tantalising opportunity of BIPV with short payback and no requirement for subsidy.
Sectors Construction

Energy

Manufacturing

including Industrial Biotechology

Other

URL http://www.specific.eu.com
 
Description The SPECIFIC IKC was established in 2010 in the emerging technology area of functional industrial coatings with an initial £5m grant from EPSRC and TSB, £4m support from the Welsh Government together with support from Swansea University (£4m) and Industry (£6m). Its ultimate purpose is to nucleate and accelerate the creation of a new UK industry in disruptive coating technologies resulting in economic growth, initially through the use of 'Buildings as Powerstations'. This has been achieved in collaboration with established and nascent UK businesses by creating a critical mass of research and innovation expertise and establishing a National Centre of Excellence in Functional Coatings. As the value of products affected by Surface Engineering and Advanced Coatings in construction in the UK is £25bn pa, the potential for long term economic impact is significant. In its first full three years of operation the following is a summary of progress: • SPECIFIC established in a distinctive and flexible facility (Figure 1) incorporating labs, innovation spaces and production facilities, all operated at industry standard and available for third party access. • Three fully functioning re-configurable manufacturing lines in a bespoke clean room environment (Figure 1) • Growth from 10 to 137 staff and research students as of 9th July 2014. • Core industrial partner support of three multinationals (Tata Steel, NSG (Pilkington), BASF) £5m. • Collaboration projects with 32 companies of all sizes. • Leveraged research and development support of £40m. • CDT support to underpin SPECIFIC (EPSRC and WG support totalling £6.6m) to 2023. • 105 scientific papers, 95 conference presentations. • Intellectual asset portfolio including one trademark, 29 patent applications, 61 technology disclosures and know-how across the technology domain. • Two companies created (SPECIFIC Innovations and BIPV Ltd) and 1 licence (Hot Tile) agreed. • Over 2000 stakeholder visits to SPECIFIC and Materials Live outreach to promote SPECIFIC vision. • Training provided to 229 industrial employees (Work based learning). • 27 Doctoral graduates employed in partner industries. • 16 Doctoral graduates employed in partner University projects. • Two Building Scale Demonstrator Projects.
First Year Of Impact 2013
Sector Chemicals,Communities and Social Services/Policy,Construction,Energy,Environment,Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology
Impact Types Societal

Economic

Policy & public services

 
Description THE NET ZERO CARBON BUILDING STANDARD CALL FOR EVIDENCE
Geographic Reach National 
Policy Influence Type Contribution to a national consultation/review
URL https://www.nzcbuildings.co.uk/
 
Description A4B - InvestorG8 - BIPV
Amount £44,000 (GBP)
Funding ID IG8 - BIPV 
Organisation Academic Expertise for Business (A4B) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 08/2014 
End 12/2014
 
Description A4B - InvestorG8 - SPECIFIC 1
Amount £10,000 (GBP)
Funding ID IG8 - SPECIFIC 1 
Organisation Academic Expertise for Business (A4B) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 08/2014 
End 12/2014
 
Description A4B Capital - SUPER
Amount £2,000,000 (GBP)
Organisation Academic Expertise for Business (A4B) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 08/2013 
End 12/2014
 
Description Adventures in Energy - A new concept for advanced large-scale energy storage: secondary batteries with seawater as open self-replenishing cathode
Amount £415,907 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/N013727/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 01/2016 
End 12/2018
 
Description BEIS Non-Domestic Demand-Side Response
Amount £18,000 (GBP)
Funding ID 127310112017-ND105 
Organisation Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 07/2017 
End 10/2017
 
Description Brian Mercer Feasibility Award
Amount £30,000 (GBP)
Funding ID MF150163 
Organisation The Royal Society 
Sector Charity/Non Profit
Country United Kingdom
Start 01/2017 
End 12/2017
 
Description Crown Packaging Lecturer
Amount £75,000 (GBP)
Funding ID n/a 
Organisation Crown Packaging UK 
Sector Private
Country United Kingdom
Start 08/2015 
End 08/2018
 
Description EPSRC - PVTEAM
Amount £250,000 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/L017792/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 03/2014 
End 02/2018
 
Description EPSRC - SUPERGEN Supersolar Challenge
Amount £120,000 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/J017361/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 11/2014 
End 10/2017
 
Description EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Industrial Functional Coatings: COATED2
Amount £2,613,845 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/L015099/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 04/2015 
End 11/2022
 
Description EPSRC First Grant Scheme
Amount £100,000 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/R016666/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 02/2018 
End 01/2019
 
Description EPSRC Managed Call - Manufacturing Advanced Functional Materials - SPACE-Modules
Amount £2,513,161 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/M015254/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 03/2015 
End 02/2020
 
Description ERDF - LCRI
Amount £1,500,000 (GBP)
Funding ID LCRI 
Organisation European Commission 
Sector Public
Country European Union (EU)
Start 03/2008 
End 12/2014
 
Description Energy Catalyst - Mid Stage - Round 2 - Hi-PROSPECTS
Amount £1,333,356 (GBP)
Funding ID 102470 
Organisation Innovate UK 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 03/2016 
End 03/2019
 
Description Energy Catalyst R5
Amount £562,000 (GBP)
Organisation Innovate UK 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 01/2018 
End 12/2020
 
Description Enterprise Fellowship - Dodds
Amount £60,000 (GBP)
Funding ID EF1617\6\26 
Organisation Royal Academy of Engineering 
Sector Charity/Non Profit
Country United Kingdom
Start 03/2017 
End 03/2018
 
Description Exploitation models for SPECIFIC IKC
Amount £250,000 (GBP)
Funding ID 920037 
Organisation Innovate UK 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 12/2016 
End 03/2017
 
Description Grant Opportunities - SCION
Amount $2,000,000 (USD)
Organisation Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation 
Sector Charity/Non Profit
Country United States
Start 03/2017 
End 03/2018
 
Description H2020-MSCA-ITN-2017 (Marie Sklodowska-Curie Innovative Training Networks)
Amount € 3,852,446 (EUR)
Funding ID MAESTRO (764787) 
Organisation European Commission H2020 
Sector Public
Country Belgium
Start 11/2017 
End 10/2020
 
Description HEFCW - Sêr Cymru - Sêr Solar
Amount £2,000,000 (GBP)
Organisation Higher Education Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 08/2013 
End 08/2018
 
Description Industrial Support (cash) - BASF
Amount £150,000 (GBP)
Funding ID n/a 
Organisation BASF 
Department BASF Coatings
Sector Private
Country United Kingdom
Start 01/2016 
End 12/2021
 
Description Intitutional Links - Newton fund
Amount £80,000 (GBP)
Organisation British Council 
Sector Charity/Non Profit
Country United Kingdom
Start 03/2018 
End 03/2019
 
Description Materials Science 2016 Venture Prize
Amount £25,000 (GBP)
Organisation Armourers & Brasiers 
Sector Private
Country United Kingdom
Start 01/2017 
End 12/2017
 
Description Newton Fund
Amount £5,000,000 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/P003605/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 09/2016 
End 09/2020
 
Description Research Fund for Coal and Steel
Amount € 150,000 (EUR)
Funding ID 425000 
Organisation European Commission 
Sector Public
Country European Union (EU)
Start 08/2015 
End 02/2019
 
Description SPECIFIC IKC Phase 2 - EPSRC £2M
Amount £2,000,000 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/N020863/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 03/2016 
End 03/2021
 
Description SPECIFIC Phase 2 - IUK - £2M
Amount £2,000,000 (GBP)
Funding ID 920036 
Organisation Innovate UK 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 03/2016 
End 03/2021
 
Description SPECIFIC+ - WEFO £15M
Amount £15,000,000 (GBP)
Funding ID 80892 
Organisation Government of Wales 
Department Welsh European Funding Office
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 03/2016 
End 03/2021
 
Description Senior Industrial Fellow - MPI/Tata Steel
Amount £189,000 (GBP)
Funding ID n/a 
Organisation Materials Processing Institute 
Sector Private
Country United Kingdom
Start 03/2016 
End 02/2019
 
Description Ser Cymru 2 - Fellowships
Amount £225,000 (GBP)
Funding ID 80761-SU-017 
Organisation Government of Wales 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 12/2016 
End 11/2019
 
Description Ser Cymru 2 - Fellowships - SJ
Amount £93,000 (GBP)
Organisation Government of Wales 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 12/2016 
End 11/2018
 
Description Ser Cymru Capital Equipment Grant - SER SOLAR CELL PRINTING AND STABILITY TESTING FACILITIES
Amount £152,436 (GBP)
Funding ID SCCEG-03 
Organisation Welsh Assembly 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 11/2015 
End 03/2016
 
Description Ser Cymru Industry Fellowship - ASHIBA: ADVANCED HEAT STORAGE FOR INDUSTRIAL AND BUILDING APPLICATIONS
Amount £190,000 (GBP)
Funding ID NRNC08 
Organisation Welsh Assembly 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 01/2016 
End 12/2017
 
Description Ser Cymru NRN - DEVELOPMENT OF STABLE ORGANIC SOLAR CELLS
Amount £58,800 (GBP)
Organisation Welsh Assembly 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 08/2014 
End 08/2017
 
Description Ser Cymru NRN - IDENTIFYING DEGRADATION MECHANISMS AND DESIGN OF SYSTEMS FOR PEROVSKITE SOLAR CELLS IN OUTDOOR BIPV APPLICATIONS (SPECIFIC)
Amount £58,800 (GBP)
Funding ID NRN094 
Organisation Welsh Assembly 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 09/2014 
End 09/2017
 
Description Solar Photovoltaic Academic Research Consortium II
Amount £5,000,000 (GBP)
Organisation Government of Wales 
Department Welsh European Funding Office
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 03/2016 
End 03/2021
 
Description Super Solar Hub - ADDRESSING THE SCALE UP CHALLENGES FOR FLEXIBLE PEROVSKITE SOLAR CELLS
Amount £151,000 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/J017361/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 11/2014 
End 04/2016
 
Description Supergen Solar Challenge - High resolution mapping of performance and degradation mechanisms in printable photovoltaic devices
Amount £1,035,857 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/M025020/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 07/2015 
End 07/2018
 
Description WG - Sêr Cymru - Sêr Solar
Amount £4,500,000 (GBP)
Organisation Government of Wales 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 08/2013 
End 08/2018
 
Description WG Captial Grant - PMRC
Amount £2,000,000 (GBP)
Funding ID WAG.1 
Organisation Government of Wales 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 03/2011 
End 03/2012
 
Description WG NRN Industrial Fellowship
Amount £92,000 (GBP)
Organisation Welsh Assembly 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 01/2016 
End 12/2018
 
Description WG NRN Research Grant
Amount £58,000 (GBP)
Organisation Welsh Assembly 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 03/2015 
End 02/2016
 
Title Dataset for Cobalt(I) olefin Complexes: Precursors for Metal-Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition of High Purity Cobalt Metal Thin Films 
Description Data included in the publication Cobalt(I) olefin Complexes: Precursors for Metal-Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition of High Purity Cobalt Metal Thin Films: including XPS files, TGA, IT-TGA excel files, SEM images and Vapor Deposition Data. 
Type Of Material Database/Collection of data 
Year Produced 2016 
Provided To Others? Yes  
 
Description Cogent - Chrome-free Tension Coating for Grain Oriented Electrical Steel 
Organisation Tata Steel Europe
Department Cogent Power
Country Canada 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution development of a chrome free coating for electrical steels
Collaborator Contribution post-graduate funding, materials and equipment access
Impact none yet
Start Year 2014
 
Description G24 - Manufacture and Characterisation of DSSC 
Organisation G24 Power
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution The team have applied novel rapid manufacturing and scaling processes to the materials set of G24
Collaborator Contribution G24 have assisted in analysing the results of the work in comparison to their standard processes
Impact Detailed commercial reports wrt to analysis of G24 materials and devices
Start Year 2014
 
Description GridDuck - Heated Floors 
Organisation GridDuck
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Working with GridDuck as lead partner, a project to examine the suitability of small heat loads for demand side response has been secured via BEIS's recent competition/tender "Demand Side Response for Non-Domestic Buildings". GridDuck and Upside Energy are both start-ups active in DSR. Phase 1 will commence in October, if successful, Phase 2 will use SPECIFIC's demonstration and scale up facilities. The work will include the heated floor tile as well as other heating loads.
Collaborator Contribution Working with GridDuck as lead partner, a project to examine the suitability of small heat loads for demand side response has been secured via BEIS
Impact none yet
Start Year 2017
 
Description IQE - Advanced Silicon-Perovskite Solar Tandem Cells (ASPEKTS) 
Organisation IQE Europe Limited
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Scoping of research projects, preparation of collaborative funding applications. Access to facilities and technical staff.
Collaborator Contribution Scoping of research projects, preparation of collaborative funding applications. EPSRC iCASE studentship. Access to facilities and technical staff.
Impact EPSRC iCASE studentship
Start Year 2017
 
Description Loughborough University - SUPERSOLAR Hub 
Organisation Loughborough University
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution Appointed as an associate member of the SUPERSOLAR Hub and attend technical meetings.
Collaborator Contribution The hub represents the interests of EPSRC in the area of solar energy research an provides a coordinating role.
Impact We have successfully applied for and received funding from a Challenge call issued by the hub
Start Year 2014
 
Description Palliser Engineers Ltd - Optical Transfer of Heat with Electrical and Light Output 
Organisation Palliser Engineers Ltd
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution development of low cost CdTe to convert short solar wavelengths and utilise most of the remaining 41% to achieve temperatures of 150 deg C using novel optics. This enables absorption and adsorption heat driven technologies to be run efficiently for affordable air-conditioning and refrigeration. SPECIFIC will address the heat profiles needed to interface with thermochemical heat storage salts, including the interface and control aspects of applying their techniques for relatively short-term heat cycles in domestic or industrial conditions.
Collaborator Contribution Project leadership and research direction. Collaborative R&D.
Impact project work recently began - too early to report outcomes
Start Year 2017
 
Description SPECIFIC IKC - Phase 2 - Strategic Industry Partners 
Organisation BASF
Department BASF Coatings
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Development of a range of coatings for steel and glass to functionalise the building envelop.
Collaborator Contribution Access to industrial expertise, equipment, facilities and project steering. Direct funding of staff and doctoral students.
Impact multi-disciplinary collaboration involving: Materials Science / Engineering Physics Chemistry Architecture Technology Transfer and Commercialisation
Start Year 2016
 
Description SPECIFIC IKC - Phase 2 - Strategic Industry Partners 
Organisation Pilkington Glass
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Development of a range of coatings for steel and glass to functionalise the building envelop.
Collaborator Contribution Access to industrial expertise, equipment, facilities and project steering. Direct funding of staff and doctoral students.
Impact multi-disciplinary collaboration involving: Materials Science / Engineering Physics Chemistry Architecture Technology Transfer and Commercialisation
Start Year 2016
 
Description SPECIFIC IKC - Phase 2 - Strategic Industry Partners 
Organisation TATA Steel
Department Tata Limited UK
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Development of a range of coatings for steel and glass to functionalise the building envelop.
Collaborator Contribution Access to industrial expertise, equipment, facilities and project steering. Direct funding of staff and doctoral students.
Impact multi-disciplinary collaboration involving: Materials Science / Engineering Physics Chemistry Architecture Technology Transfer and Commercialisation
Start Year 2016
 
Description SPECIFIC IKC - Strategic Partners 
Organisation BASF
Department BASF Coatings
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution TBC
Collaborator Contribution Secondments of senior staff to SPECIFIC IKC: CEO of SPECIFIC IKC - Mr Kevin Bygate Industrial Director - Mr Paul Jones Industrial Postgraduate Supervisor - Dr Jon Elvins SPECIFIC IKC Steering Committee and Board - Simone Vooijs: Director Technical, Downstream Operations, Tata Steel Europe Funding for Engineering Doctorate students and PDRAs
Impact TBC
Start Year 2011
 
Description SPECIFIC IKC - Strategic Partners 
Organisation NSG Nippon Sheet Glass Pilkington
Country Japan 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution TBC
Collaborator Contribution Secondments of senior staff to SPECIFIC IKC: CEO of SPECIFIC IKC - Mr Kevin Bygate Industrial Director - Mr Paul Jones Industrial Postgraduate Supervisor - Dr Jon Elvins SPECIFIC IKC Steering Committee and Board - Simone Vooijs: Director Technical, Downstream Operations, Tata Steel Europe Funding for Engineering Doctorate students and PDRAs
Impact TBC
Start Year 2011
 
Description SPECIFIC IKC - Strategic Partners 
Organisation Tata Steel Europe
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution TBC
Collaborator Contribution Secondments of senior staff to SPECIFIC IKC: CEO of SPECIFIC IKC - Mr Kevin Bygate Industrial Director - Mr Paul Jones Industrial Postgraduate Supervisor - Dr Jon Elvins SPECIFIC IKC Steering Committee and Board - Simone Vooijs: Director Technical, Downstream Operations, Tata Steel Europe Funding for Engineering Doctorate students and PDRAs
Impact TBC
Start Year 2011
 
Description STRIP Company Contribution 
Organisation BASF
Country Germany 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution 50+ MRes Students enrolled to date 50+ EngD Students enrolled to date
Collaborator Contribution Co-Funding for MRes / Engineering Doctorate students, including fees, stipend, travel and consumables.
Impact Many students have graduated some of which have gained employment with the collaborating companies or have remained with the research team as post-doc. The collaborating companies have benefited through improved materials, processing and technological innovations.
Start Year 2010
 
Description STRIP Company Contribution 
Organisation European Coil Coating Association (ECCA)
Country Belgium 
Sector Charity/Non Profit 
PI Contribution 50+ MRes Students enrolled to date 50+ EngD Students enrolled to date
Collaborator Contribution Co-Funding for MRes / Engineering Doctorate students, including fees, stipend, travel and consumables.
Impact Many students have graduated some of which have gained employment with the collaborating companies or have remained with the research team as post-doc. The collaborating companies have benefited through improved materials, processing and technological innovations.
Start Year 2010
 
Description STRIP Company Contribution 
Organisation LUX-TSI
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution 50+ MRes Students enrolled to date 50+ EngD Students enrolled to date
Collaborator Contribution Co-Funding for MRes / Engineering Doctorate students, including fees, stipend, travel and consumables.
Impact Many students have graduated some of which have gained employment with the collaborating companies or have remained with the research team as post-doc. The collaborating companies have benefited through improved materials, processing and technological innovations.
Start Year 2010
 
Description STRIP Company Contribution 
Organisation NSG Nippon Sheet Glass Pilkington
Country Japan 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution 50+ MRes Students enrolled to date 50+ EngD Students enrolled to date
Collaborator Contribution Co-Funding for MRes / Engineering Doctorate students, including fees, stipend, travel and consumables.
Impact Many students have graduated some of which have gained employment with the collaborating companies or have remained with the research team as post-doc. The collaborating companies have benefited through improved materials, processing and technological innovations.
Start Year 2010
 
Description STRIP Company Contribution 
Organisation Tata Steel Europe
Department Cogent Power
Country Canada 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution 50+ MRes Students enrolled to date 50+ EngD Students enrolled to date
Collaborator Contribution Co-Funding for MRes / Engineering Doctorate students, including fees, stipend, travel and consumables.
Impact Many students have graduated some of which have gained employment with the collaborating companies or have remained with the research team as post-doc. The collaborating companies have benefited through improved materials, processing and technological innovations.
Start Year 2010
 
Description STRIP Company Contribution 
Organisation Tata Steel Europe
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution 50+ MRes Students enrolled to date 50+ EngD Students enrolled to date
Collaborator Contribution Co-Funding for MRes / Engineering Doctorate students, including fees, stipend, travel and consumables.
Impact Many students have graduated some of which have gained employment with the collaborating companies or have remained with the research team as post-doc. The collaborating companies have benefited through improved materials, processing and technological innovations.
Start Year 2010
 
Description STRIP Company Contribution 
Organisation Tata Steel Europe
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution 50+ MRes Students enrolled to date 50+ EngD Students enrolled to date
Collaborator Contribution Co-Funding for MRes / Engineering Doctorate students, including fees, stipend, travel and consumables.
Impact Many students have graduated some of which have gained employment with the collaborating companies or have remained with the research team as post-doc. The collaborating companies have benefited through improved materials, processing and technological innovations.
Start Year 2010
 
Description STRIP Company Contribution 
Organisation Tata Steel Europe
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution 50+ MRes Students enrolled to date 50+ EngD Students enrolled to date
Collaborator Contribution Co-Funding for MRes / Engineering Doctorate students, including fees, stipend, travel and consumables.
Impact Many students have graduated some of which have gained employment with the collaborating companies or have remained with the research team as post-doc. The collaborating companies have benefited through improved materials, processing and technological innovations.
Start Year 2010
 
Description STRIP Company Contribution 
Organisation Tata Steel Europe
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution 50+ MRes Students enrolled to date 50+ EngD Students enrolled to date
Collaborator Contribution Co-Funding for MRes / Engineering Doctorate students, including fees, stipend, travel and consumables.
Impact Many students have graduated some of which have gained employment with the collaborating companies or have remained with the research team as post-doc. The collaborating companies have benefited through improved materials, processing and technological innovations.
Start Year 2010
 
Description STRIP Company Contribution 
Organisation Vector International
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution 50+ MRes Students enrolled to date 50+ EngD Students enrolled to date
Collaborator Contribution Co-Funding for MRes / Engineering Doctorate students, including fees, stipend, travel and consumables.
Impact Many students have graduated some of which have gained employment with the collaborating companies or have remained with the research team as post-doc. The collaborating companies have benefited through improved materials, processing and technological innovations.
Start Year 2010
 
Description Solar Press - OPV Scale-up 
Organisation Solar Press
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution tbc
Collaborator Contribution Supply of specialist equipment at highly preferential rates
Impact tbc
Start Year 2013
 
Description eight19 (SUNRISE) 
Organisation Eight19
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution development of collaborative research funding applications stability and processing of organic solar cells
Collaborator Contribution development of collaborative research funding applications
Impact funding applications
Start Year 2017
 
Title A CONDUCTIVE LAYER FOR USE IN A PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE OR OTHER ELECTRONIC APPLICATION 
Description The invention relates to a conductive layer for use in a photovoltaic (PV) device or other electronic application such as large area lighting and displays and a method of manufacturing the same. The invention further relates to a dye sensitised solar cell comprising said conductive layer. 
IP Reference EP2457238 
Protection Patent granted
Year Protection Granted 2012
Licensed No
Impact technology used in the production of photovoltaic devices at SPECIFIC IKC
 
Title A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE, AN INTERMEDIATE MANUFACTURING PRODUCT AND A PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE 
Description The invention concerns a photovoltaic device on a metal carrier substrate, and a method of manufacturing this photovoltaic device, or an intermediate product, according to the invention. The manufacturing process comprises the steps of: providing a metal carrier substrate (12), providing an electrically insulating layer (14) having barrier properties on said metal carrier substrate (12), providing a first electrically conductive layer (16) on the electrically insulating layer (14), wherein possi 
IP Reference EP2345051 
Protection Patent application published
Year Protection Granted 2011
Licensed No
Impact used at SPECIFIC IKC for the development of photovoltaic devices
 
Title A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING WORKING ELECTRODES FOR DYE SENSITISED SOLAR CELLS 
Description A method of manufacturing working electrodes for series connected dye sensitised solar cells in a continuous reel-to-reel production line comprising the steps of: i. Providing a metal carrier strip substrate having a first side and a second side; ii. Providing an organic electrically insulating layer on the first side of the metal carrier substrate having a temperature resistance in the range of 200°C to 600°C; iii. Providing an organic conductive layer on the electrically insulating layer havin 
IP Reference EP2457243 
Protection Patent application published
Year Protection Granted 2012
Licensed No
Impact technology used at SPECIFIC IKC for the production of 3rd generation photovoltaic devices
 
Title An opto-electronic device and method for manufacturing the same 
Description The present invention relates to an opto-electronic device (1) comprising: (a) a first component (2) comprising a transparent electrode (11), and (b) a second component (3) comprising: - a metal substrate (5), - a blocking layer (7), - an active layer (8), and - a hole conducting layer (9, 10), wherein the metal substrate (5) is provided with a plating layer (6). 
IP Reference EP2747101 
Protection Patent application published
Year Protection Granted 2014
Licensed No
Impact key technology used at SPECIFIC IKC for the development and production of photovoltaic devices
 
Title Corrosion Inhibitor 
Description A smart release environmentally sound Cr-(VI)-free corrosion inhibitor for coated steel products 
IP Reference GB1518168.8 
Protection Patent application published
Year Protection Granted 2015
Licensed Commercial In Confidence
Impact A spin-out company was formed around the IP and c. £170k in additional funding has been leveraged in support of the commercialisation activity
 
Title Counter Electrode for a Dye-Sensitised Solar Cell 
Description A method of forming a counter electrode for a dye-sensitised solar cell (DSSC) comprising: providing a conductive substrate 10; depositing a platinum group metal halide in solution onto a first side of the substrate 10; exposing the first side of the conductive substrate to near-infrared radiation at a wavelength between 700-2500nm to allow the metal from the metal halide to be deposited as a layer 30 on the substrate 10. The conductive substrate is preferably formed of an electrochemically inert material, such as glass or plastic, and a layer of conductive material 20 such as fluorine-doped tin oxide. Also disclosed is a DSSC comprising the above counter electrode 1, the DSSC further comprising: a working electrode, having a conductive substrate with a metal oxide layer provided, the metal oxide having a dye adsorbed onto the surface; and an electrolyte provided between the working and counter electrodes. The present method allows for quicker deposition of platinum-group metal layers which act as catalysing electrodes in DSSCs. Typical processes use ovens to increase the temperature, this is both time consuming and energy inefficient; the use of infrared radiation lowers the heating time and focuses the thermal energy on the substrate surface. 
IP Reference GB2501247 
Protection Patent application published
Year Protection Granted 2013
Licensed No
Impact one of the key enabling technologies employed at SPECIFIC IKC for the production of photovoltaic devices
 
Title DYE-SENSITISED SOLAR CELLS 
Description The present invention relates to the field of dye sensitised solar cell and to a method for preparing them rapidly and efficiently focussing on a rapid method for dye sensitisation. 
IP Reference EP2394281 
Protection Patent application published
Year Protection Granted 2011
Licensed No
Impact employed at SPECIFIC IKC for the development of photovoltaic devices
 
Title FLEXIBLE DYE SENSITISED SOLAR CELL AND A METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME 
Description A dye sensitised solar cell comprising a metal carrier substrate, an organic electrically insulating layer on the metal carrier substrate, a conductive layer on the organic electrically insulating layer, a photoabsorber layer comprising a dye sensitised metal oxide, a transparent counter electrode and an electrolyte encapsulated between the photoabsorber layer and the transparent counter electrode, wherein a layer of a semi-conductive material is present between the photoabsorber layer and the conductive layer, said conductive layer comprising an organic polymeric material and an allotrope of carbon as a conductor. 
IP Reference WO2012100930 
Protection Patent granted
Year Protection Granted 2012
Licensed No
Impact technology used at SPECIFIC IKC for the development of photovoltaic devices
 
Title HEATING ELEMENT 
Description The present invention provides a heating element (L) formed as a laminate including a thermally conductive substrate (1) having a first surface coated at least in part with an electrically insulating coating layer (2). The electrically insulating layer is backed with an electrically resistive layer (3), formed of a non-conducting matrix material that is loaded with conductive material to allow current to be passed through the resistive material to generate heat which can be conducted out through the thermally conductive substrate (1). An electrically and thermally insulating layer (6) backs layer (3) and direct heat through the second surface and to provide support and encapsulation to the resistive element of the system. 
IP Reference WO2014122419 
Protection Patent application published
Year Protection Granted 2014
Licensed Yes
Impact The technology has been used in an SBRI feasibility study. Negotiations are at an advanced stage with a raised access floor tile manufacturer to create a demonstrator room at their premises.
 
Title METHOD FOR THE MANUFACTURING OF A PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE 
Description The invention relates to a method for the manufacture of a working electrode for use in a dye sensitised solar cell (DSC) comprising the consecutive steps of: providing a conductive substrate having a first side and a second side, depositing a paste comprising a metal oxide, a solvent and optionally a binder onto the first side of the conductive substrate, removing the solvent, optionally removing the binder, sintering the metal oxide, sensitising the metal oxide with a dye, According to the present invention removing at least part of the solvent and optionally removing at least part of the binder in a single step and/or sintering the metal oxide is performed using electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength in the range of 200nm to 3000nm, said irradiation causing the substrate to heat up rapidly and transfer the heat to the paste. 
IP Reference WO2010115584 
Protection Patent granted
Year Protection Granted 2010
Licensed No
Impact key technology employed at SPECIFIC IKC for the development and production of photovoltaic devices
 
Title OPTO-ELECTRONIC DEVICE 
Description The present invention relates to an opto-electronic device comprising: a first component comprising an electrode, an active layer and a first transparent conductive layer; a second component comprising a transparent electrode, and a transparent adhesive disposed between the first component and the second component, wherein the transparent electrode comprises a metal or metal alloy current collector and the transparent adhesive comprises one or more conductive components. 
IP Reference WO2014026750 
Protection Patent granted
Year Protection Granted 2014
Licensed No
Impact one of the key enabling technologies used in the production of of photovoltaic devices at SPECIFIC IKC
 
Title SOLAR CELLS WITH MULTIPLE DYES. 
Description The present invention relates to the field of dye sensitized solar cell, using several dyes and to a method for preparing them rapidly and efficiently focussing on a rapid method for dye sensitization. 
IP Reference EP2580768 
Protection Patent application published
Year Protection Granted 2013
Licensed No
Impact used at SPECIFIC IKC to develop photovoltaic devices
 
Title ULTRA-LOW TEMPERATURE SINTERING OF DYE-SENSITISED SOLAR CELLS 
Description This invention relates to the field of dye-sensitised solar cells and discloses a method for reducing the temperature necessary for sintering the metal oxide paste coating the electrode. 
IP Reference EP2569783 
Protection Patent application published
Year Protection Granted 2013
Licensed No
Impact technology used at SPECIFIC IKC for the development of photovoltaic devices
 
Company Name BIPV 
Description BIPV manufactures integrated photovoltaic (solar) panels for commercial, industrial and residential properties. 
Year Established 2013 
Impact Developed three PV products for different applications for converting buildings into power stations. Has raised over £3m in private investment. Currently employs around 13 people in South Wales.
Website http://www.bipvco.com
 
Company Name Hexigone Inhibitors 
Description Hexigone Inhibitors develops and manufactures pigments that are free of chrome, designed to prevent corrosion. 
Year Established 2016 
Impact Since it's formation in June 2016 the team have gone on to leverage £50k in seed investment, a Royal Society Brian Mercer Feasibility Award (£30k) and a Royal Academy of Engineering Enterprise Fellowship (£60k). The technology is patented and is currently in the PCT phase. During 2017 it is expected that 1x doctoral level FTE will be created in the Swansea region. 2019 - The company now has several employees based in the Swansea region, has raised over £1m in private investment and is working globally with 20 international partners https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-47468201?intlink_from_url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/topics/c52ew8q50z2t/wales-business&link_location=live-reporting-story One of the original team has now become a Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence at Swansea University
Website http://www.swanseainnovations.com
 
Company Name Kubal-Wraith 
Description Kubal-Wraith develops a laser based steel furnace monitoring system, allowing users to determine the status of molten metal furnaces. 
Year Established 2018 
Impact in 2017 the team won a Royal Society Translation award to support the initial technology transfer of the technology from the university to an investment ready proposition. Following this, in June 2018 the now formed company and management team from Swansea University won the Armourers & Brasiers 2018 Materials Science Venture Prize - making Swansea University the first institution to win the prize twice. The lead inventor has since secured a Royal Society Short Industry Fellowship associated with the technology transfer of the innovation.
 
Company Name Murex Advanced Materials 
Description Murex Advanced Materials manufactures materials for various uses, from medical to defence, and also offers consultancy services to materials-based startups. 
Year Established 2016 
Impact none yet
Website http://www.murexgroup.co.uk/
 
Company Name Specific Innovations Limited 
Description  
Year Established 2013 
Impact One technology licence has been granted to a commercial third party.
 
Description APEX II Meetings 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact UK and India are both rising stars in the promotion of Solar Energy viz. direct generation of electricity from the Sun called photovoltaics (PV). In the UK, PV is seen as a key technology to reduce the carbon footprint of electricity generation. It is also a necessity if future building standards are to be met, which will require on-site generation. PV is the only way to meet this to date. DECC has announced recently 'The Solar Strategy' which promotes the deployment of solar technologies on the existing buildings. In India PV has the added benefit that it is a highly scalable technology that can be deployed to support the grid infrastructure and indeed can be built possibly faster than conventional power plants through terrestrial solar farms and BIPV sectors. The current APEX program stems from the strategic move by the governments of the UK and India who jointly identified Solar Energy as an area of significance in providing solutions to the problem of meeting future energy needs. This partnership was aimed at linking the strengths of both countries to enhance the research capabilities of both nations.
APEX had been focusing on the development of new functional materials, device structures, materials processing and engineering of photovoltaic modules utilising excitonic solar cells (ESCs). These are a class of nano-structured solar cells based on organic nano-composites and dye-sensitised nanocrystalline TiO2 materials. The current state-of-the-art power conversion efficiency (PCE) figures ~11.4% and ~9.2% has been achieved in liquid junction dye sensitized solar cell (DSSC) and organic solar cells (OSC), respectively. In the pursuit of achieving high efficiency solid state DSSC, a new breakthrough has been established recently through our Oxford group (Prof. Henry Snaith) who achieved >17% efficient solid state devices using pervoskite solar cells. Thus, the APEX team enjoys the exceptional, world-class capability in Excitonic PV technology. The success of the program had been through its novelty, innovation and cutting edge R&D capability it possesses.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015,2016
URL http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/projects?ref=EP/M023532/1
 
Description Co-Innovate - Cardiff 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Presentation of the buildings as power stations concept inviting industry to collaborate to deliver impact from research
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description Green Growth Forum 2016 - Cardiff - Kevin Bygate Invited to speaker 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Policymakers/politicians
Results and Impact CARDIFF: Political and economic leaders from around the world shared their collective spirit to capitalize on green growth and deliver on the Paris Agreement goals, at the International Green Growth Forum in Cardiff, UK today.

Organized by the Welsh Government in collaboration with The Climate Group, the International Green Growth Forum is one of the first global events since the COP21 climate talks last December where the Paris Agreement was announced.

Focused on how innovative sub-national government policy and smart business action can accelerate the transition to a thriving low carbon economy, the Forum opened with a keynote address from Edwina Hart MBE, C St J, AC / AM, Welsh Minister for Economy, Science and Transport and an opening session with Peter Davies, Chair of Climate Change Commission for Wales and Master of Ceremonies, who cut straight to how state and regional governments in particular are at the level which "can make the most difference on the ground".

Simon Upton, Environment Director, OECD, said this forward-thinking action from governments and business is the "biggest opportunity of our age", marking the December 12 date of the Paris Agreement as one which will be remembered as the historic moment "we decide to tackle climate change".

The opportunity lies most of all, the Director believes, in the rapidly falling costs of clean energy technologies, which will "drive growth whilst reducing carbon emissions". Alluding to the rise of renewables in the face of increasingly redundant fossil fuels he affirmed: "Tomorrow's economy won't be built using today's tools."

Sir David King, UK Government Special Representative for Climate Change, who we interviewed for Climate TV earlier this week, also spoke of the rapid adoption of low carbon technologies being witnessed around the globe, pointing to South Africa's ambitious plans to build 9.6 gigawatts of solar capacity by 2030.

But investing in clean energy does not just bring bottom line benefits; it also reduces business risk, according to Andrew Griffiths, Nestlé UK Environmental Sustainability Manager, who stressed how "food manufacturing businesses are particularly susceptible to climate change".

Governments around the world also have similar incentives to act on climate as businesses, said Marta Subirà i Roca, Secretary for Environment and Sustainability, Government of Catalonia (pictured). She explained that state and regional governments "are key" to delivering the Paris Agreement, while also benefitting from being in a "pivotal position" to collaborate effectively with the business world to achieve this.

"Catalonia is deeply committed to action on climate change", Marta Subirà i Roca stated, but action at scale needs buy-in from all: "Accelerating green growth relies on developing partnerships with the private sector."

COLLABORATE FOR ACTION

Mark Kenber, CEO, The Climate Group, chaired a practical discussion on how exactly this business and government collaboration will work. "Doing what we're doing, faster, doesn't get us there" he warned, rather strategic cross-sectoral links will afford us the scale we need to drive down emissions.

But while many leading governments are already working with like-minded companies who know the only way to move forward is low carbon growth, this work must also extend to these leaders' customers and citizens to be most effective, according to Niall Dunne, Chief Sustainability Officer, BT. "The narrative must be around empowering communities - it's more powerful than green growth alone," he said.

Illustrating this multi-layered approach in action, the CSO explained how BT redesigned its modems to fit in letter boxes - an innovation which has saved 80,000 miles of customers traveling to post offices to pick up parcels.

Ken Alex, Government of California offered the policy perspective, outlining how the US state - and suggesting other sub-national governments around the world such as Wales have similar agendas - has powered low carbon regulation such as LED lighting into action, which is sending the right signal to innovative new companies. "Through the regulatory system you can drive change", he explained. "California's energy storage regulation has attracted companies from around the world to create solutions."

NEW ENERGY

In the afternoon, four parallel workshops honed in on issues around low carbon growth, including climate-resilient infrastructure and green investment. Hosting a 'Building for the Future' session on the transition to clean energy systems, Emily Farnworth, Campaign Director, RE100, The Climate Group discussed renewable uptake with corporate, policy and academic leaders including representatives from the governments of North Rhine-Westphalia and Catalonia, and Nestlé UK.

Nestlé is a member of RE100, a global collaborative initiative of the world's most influential companies committed to 100% renewable power, led by The Climate Group in partnership with CDP. This week, Tata Motors Limited, India's largest automobile manufacturer, became the second Indian company to join RE100.

Joan França, Specialist in International Relations and Sustainability for the State of Rio de Janeiro - who participated in the 'Building for the Future' session - outlined how the State of Rio is integrating climate resilience into their strategy for Olympics this year and is working with businesses to support growth while reducing emissions.

Bryan Jacob, Campaign Director, EP100, The Climate Group also moderated a workshop on how business can achieve greater resource efficiency. During the session, Andreas Knobloch, Director of Alliances, Phillips Lighting, explained how using "connected systems" to control lighting can maximize productivity, and Kevin Bygate, CEO, SPECIFIC, introduced the concept of seeing buildings as power stations, which can eventually produce more power than they consume.

Concentrating on the economic benefits of increased energy productivity, Mareike Schiffki, Government of Baden-Württemberg outlined the importance of decoupling energy consumption from economic development, with Delphine Gilbert, Regional Director, Veolia UK, Industrial Customer, offering an example of how incentives had helped drive zero waste to landfill for the leading environmental services company.

The Climate Group and Welsh Government's successful International Green Growth Forum proved today that with the Paris Agreement just three months behind us, whatever happens at the international level, political and business leaders from around the world are ready to deliver on its goals and invest in a future that is cleaner, safer and more prosperous for everyone.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
URL http://www.theclimategroup.org/what-we-do/events/international-green-growth-forum/
 
Description IKC Directors Workshop 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Sharing of IKC best practice
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2012,2013,2014,2015,2018
 
Description InnovateUK/DFID - Competition Pitch - Buildings as Power Stations Collaborative R&D 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Presentation of the 'buildings as power stations' concept inviting industry to collaborate to enable translation of research into impact
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description International Conference: Smart Energy Regions - Cardiff, February 2016 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact contributions on sustainable regional approaches to:
> Urban planning and infrastructure;
> Energy policy, strategy, building standards and regulations;
> Building energy demand and supply, and low carbon technologies;
> Energy retrofitting of the existing built environment;
> Energy design tools for the built environment.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
URL http://www.smart-er.eu/content/call-abstracts-international-conference-smart-energy-regions-cardiff-...
 
Description Iron & Steel Society - Board Meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact The Iron and Steel Society's activities encompass all professional, technical and educational aspects of the Steel Industry and whole supply chain as well as other strategic considerations of steel. This is achieved by interaction with all parties related to the Iron and Steel Industry including:

Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining Iron and Steel Society members, UK and Worldwide
Iron and steel industry personnel
Iron and steel industry suppliers and customers
Plant builders
Universities and younger members of the Institute
Iron and steel related institutes and learned societies both international and domestic
UK Steel Association and member companies
External bodies relevant to iron and steel, both international and domestic.

The scope of the Society also includes communications with other divisions and external bodies on all aspects involving iron and steel. These would include, for example, refractories, mining, automotive and general applications of steel, plant engineering, environmental considerations, recycling and Government Foresight.

The aim of the Iron and Steel Society is:
To provide value and support to the iron and steel Industry
To provide value and support to individual members of the Institute with a particular interest in iron and steel both in the UK and worldwide.
To promote a positive image of iron and steel.
To promote exchange and development of Technology through the organisation of conferences, seminars and meetings.
To carry out self-funding activities in order to achieve the above aims.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://www.iom3.org/iron-steel-society
 
Description KEYNOTE LECTURE - 228th Electrochemical Society Meeting, Phoenix AZ, USA (October 2015) - G. Williams, P. Dodds, and P. Ansell: Corrosion Protection of Galvanized Steel Using Smart-Release Inhibitive Pigments Containing Organic Anions 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Over 2,080 people from 46 different countries attended the 228th ECS Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona, October 11-15, 2015. This was ECS's first return visit to Phoenix since 2008. Participants could choose among 1,977 presentations.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://www.electrochem.org/redcat-blog/highlights-from-the-228th-ecs-meeting/
 
Description Policy Forum for Wales - Priorities for the energy sector in Wales - investment, infrastructure and devolved powers 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Policymakers/politicians
Results and Impact This conference will be an opportunity to discuss priorities for energy policy in Wales as powers to approve energy projects up to 350MW are due to be devolved to the Welsh Government.

Delegates will assess the potential for Wales to take a lead on low-carbon energy, and the priorities including planning reform and steps to secure private and European Commission funding.

Planned sessions also look at challenges for the future of energy distribution including the development of smart grids and improving capacity to support increased volumes of renewable energy and distributed generation.

The conference will bring together key policymakers from the European Commission, and Welsh and UK Governments with stakeholders across the energy sector as well as energy-intensive businesses, consumer groups, environmental organisations, local authorities, academics, and others with an interest in these important issues.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://www.policyforumforwales.co.uk/forums/event.php?eid=1139
 
Description SACW (Science Advisory Committee for Wales) -Cardiff University Council Chamber - Kevin Bygate - Science Board 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Policymakers/politicians
Results and Impact SACW reports directly to the Chief Scientific Adviser rather than to Ministers and has no statutory or financial responsibilities. It provides advice on science, technology, engineering and mathematics issues.

The Council first met in December 2010 after the appointment of the first Chief Scientific Adviser to advise the Welsh Government on science issues across departments. Its purpose is to bring a range of expertise in support of the adviser, and SACW has members with both commercial and academic knowledge in a range of subjects.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2012
URL http://sciencewales.org.uk/about/?lang=en
 
Description SUPERGEN Solar Energy Challenge - Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel - Kevin Bygate 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Introduction
The Research Councils' Energy programme invites expressions of interest from eligible individuals to attend a workshop to be held at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole, B40 1PP on 13 March 2012. The aim of this workshop is to bring together the various academic and industrial solar energy communities to scope the issues for an open SUPERGEN Challenge call to support research projects that will hasten the development of the next generation of solar energy technologies. The Energy programme has allocated up to £5M to support a call for research arising from theworkshop.

The Research Challenge
The UK Government has targets for the reduction in CO2 emissions of 80% by 2050. For these targets to be achieved a significant move away from fossil fuels across all parts of the energy sector is required. Solar energy is expected to play a significant role in meeting these targets. The RCUK energy programme is looking to invest in a SUPERGEN challenge activity in solar energy that focuses on overcoming the fundamental research challenges around the next generation of solar energy technology. It is intended that this workshop will identify and prioritise the challenges that lie within the Research Councils remit and that can be addressed through a SUPERGEN challenge call.
It is acknowledged that this activity should not act in isolation from other solar energy research being undertaken in the UK. As such applicants should demonstrate an understanding of the wider research landscape in this area, and the issues that solar energy research faces, when filling in their forms.

The workshop
The workshop will be a one day event that aims to scope the challenges that face the development of solar energy technologies. The outputs of the workshop will be used to inform a subsequent SUPERGEN challenge call. The Workshop will bring together a balance of participants from academia and industry with interests in the engineering, environmental, social, economic and political aspects of solar energy. Participants
will discuss and capture the issues around the sector and will identify multidisciplinary challenges that can be addressed in the SUPERGEN challenge call. Successful applicants to the EOI call will receive further information before the event.

Societal Implications and Ethical Issues
It is recognised that non-conventional energy has the potential to raise societal, ethical, philosophical and legal issues, and opportunities also exist for research in areas outside the natural sciences and engineering, for example policy and public acceptance. The involvement of researchers from these other fields is essential to ensure that scientific research develops in a societal framework and that any ethical, legal and societal issues that are raised are fully explored as the area develops.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2012
URL https://www.epsrc.ac.uk/funding/calls/supergensolareoi/
 
Description The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) Conference 2015 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact The 2015 conference programme focused on the building performance sector and follows the story from design, construction, maintenance and operation of buildings and the systems that support them.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://www.cibse.org/cibse-conference-2015/conference/conference-programme