Nanoco Group launched its new wafer device facility, Fab, at its Runcorn headquarters. This makes it only the second of its kind in the UK. Nanoco, originally a spin-out from the University of Manchester, specialises in developing materials for monitors, TV screens, medical imaging technologies, and the early diagnosis of cancer. They are one of the few companies globally capable of producing nanomaterials at volumes suitable for mass market consumer electronics.
The new Fab marks a significant advancement in Nanoco’s ability to supply high-performing materials for infra-red sensing applications. This facility will enable the coating of quantum dot materials and other conductive layers on silicon wafers and coupons, thereby accelerating the prototyping and testing of new materials. Previously, Nanoco had to send materials worldwide for deposition and testing. With the Fab, they can now conduct these processes in-house, reducing the time needed to provide performance feedback significantly.
This new facility will offer detailed data on the performance of materials within the final product stack, which is crucial for engaging potential customers by demonstrating the tangible benefits of their nanomaterials. The Fab is designed to integrate with 300mm CMOS semiconductor facilities, the industry standard for high-volume semiconductor chip production.
Liverpool City Region Mayor, Steve Rotheram, is attending today’s opening event to celebrate Nanoco’s status as a globally significant science-based business in the region. Since its establishment in 2001, Nanoco has been committed to the North West, originating from the University of Manchester and setting up research and manufacturing headquarters in the city.
In 2011, the company commissioned a scale-up facility in Runcorn, which has since expanded to make Nanoco the largest tenant of the Heath business and technical park. Mayor Steve Rotheram describes this facility as one of the city region’s “Beacon Projects”.
Nanoco employs 52 people from various nationalities, with 28% holding PhDs or being named inventors. Co-founder and chief technology officer of Nanoco, Nigel Pickett, expressed his pride in the company’s journey, stating:
“Little did I know when I moved to the region in 2000 that my research would lead to the establishment of this business and its contribution to the development of nanomaterials from scale-up to mass commercial production. I am immensely proud of our people and the work they deliver for customers. These new testing and analytical capabilities strengthen our position further and keep us at the cutting edge of nanotechnology.”
Nanoco Group PLC (LON:NANO) leads the world in the research, development and large-scale manufacture of heavy metal-free nanomaterials for use in displays, lighting, vertical farming, solar energy and bio-imaging.
