Local business benefits from chemical innovation

Local company Linchem, an expert in speciality chemicals, has seen the benefits of close collaboration with Teesside University's Science 2 Business Hub.

Malcolm Franklin, Linchem's Joint MD, said: 'Teesside University has provided excellent support via an experimental programme which demonstrated the chemical feasibility of Linchem's novel process for the synthesis of oilfield chemicals.'

The new industry-led Science 2 Business (S2B) Hub is managed by Teesside University and drives to create innovative projects and solutions for 'science using' SMEs in the North East of England within a three year timeframe. The project is part financed by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund 2007–13.

Key to the work with Linchem was Terence Cox, the company's Technical Manager who was delighted by the results: 'It's difficult to conceive a more efficient and cost-effective route for oligomers for applications in the oilfield sector. Following on from this successful project work, which was completed ahead of schedule, we applied for a Patent in September 2008. Plans are already in place to establish commercial viability with a major international company in the oilfield sector, if the patent is granted.

'Teesside University fine-tuned the experimental conditions and provided many core benefits such as; increased speed to market, availability of key analytical and lab resources, a lateral approach to problem solving and well, I didn't have to put a lab coat back on after thirty years.'

The S2B Hub now aim to develop this relationship by investigating new initiatives with Linchem, including technology reviews and development of further applications for the new technology.

The S2B Hub, aware of the immediate needs of local SMEs, aims to utilise its strong links with the University to offer a unique service – providing near to market solutions and access to a variety of resources, including; research, funding advice and technological advancements.