Aston University biochar experts look for corporate collaborations
Researchers want to team up with the industry on initiatives including paint and low carbon heating following additional West Midlands Innovation Accelerator funding.
Aston University’s Energy & Bioproducts Research Institute [EBRI] has issued an open invitation for companies in the West Midlands region to make contact with new projects, products and ideas that could be brought to market.
EBRI runs the Biochar CleanTech Accelerator, using pyrolysis technology to turn organic material into valuable bioproducts. Sawdust, dried chicken litter, and agricultural straw can all be used in the process, with the Aston project targeting export contracts worth more than £200million in low carbon products.
The announcement comes after Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed additional funding for the West Midlands Innovation Accelerator, part of a wider package that also included a significant share of the £1billion ringfenced for bus routes in England, and some of the additional £500million allocated to the Affordable Homes Programme.
‘When Rachel Reeves announced the extension of the West Midlands Innovation Accelerator we were delighted. The Biochar CleanTech Accelerator offers a huge range of possibilities. For example, recently we’ve worked with a Birmingham law firm to make everyday office items from biochar,’ said Tim Miller, EBRI’s government and enterprise engagement manager.
‘Now we are looking to work with innovative organisations on initiatives such as paints and coatings and low carbon gas for industrial heating. We also want to explore soil conditioners and products for improved plant, tree and animal health and biochar for water treatment and odour control,’ he continued. ‘We are working with regional companies to take research out of the lab into commercialisation at scale into domestic and export markets.’
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