Infineum has an impressive track-record for R&D however, as systems have become complex and environmental challenges pressing, they needed an expert partner to gain more in-depth insights into their products. Establishing a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with The Knowledge Base provided the company with specialised methods for studying the in-depth molecular structure of several chemical groups used by Infineum.

The aim of the partnership was to determine whether solid state NMR techniques could be a valuable tool within Infineum’s commercial R&D process, and if it could be applied across product development lines. Embarking on a three-year project the KTP transferred solid state NMR expertise to Infineum by embedding a KTP Associate as part of the research programme. Through regular partner meetings and seminars,the KTP Associate shared updates and mentored relevant Infineum employee groups on the fundamentals and theory of solid state NMR techniques.

The KTP developed the capacityof academic researchers to translate complex scientific data and findings into key outcomes for non-expert commercial specialists. This has given Infineum an advanced understanding of the response and efficiency of its products, which is equipping the company for the future. The KTP framework has also enhanced Infineum’s collaborative and partnership-driven culture, with external partners becoming integral members of internal project teams. The KTP has acted as a blueprint for further collaborations with partner academic institutions, which will see the company evolve from a leading transportation additive business into a global speciality chemical company.

“The KTP Programme was a tremendously successful way to strengthen all aspects of industrial engagement between UK Higher Education Institutions and the small, medium,and large-scale enterprises comprisingUK industry. Industry engagement is a critically important indicator determining how well an institution is functioning, and the KTP Programme offers a highly structured and effective portal through which the initiation and development of long-term relationships between company and institution canbe stimulated.”

Professor John Hanna, Knowledge Transfer Academic Lead, Department of Physics, University of Warwick

“The KTP was a true relationship for all parties involved. The structured programme provided an efficient and effective vehicle for industry to work collaboratively with academia, applying academic capabilities to real-world systems and problems and then effectively integrating such capabilities back into the company. Infineum feels the KTP has been extremely successful, and the technique (and approach) is now embedded within the company R&D culture. Based on the outputs of the KTP, it is our intention to take the partnership with the University of Warwick forward for a long-term strategic relationship based on advanced analytical techniques to enhance research and commercial activity.”

Professor Peter Dowding, Knowledge Transfer Company Lead and Principal Scientist at Infineum UK Ltd