The University of Cambridge has been awarded two Prosperity Partnerships by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). These awards are aimed at fostering collaborations between universities and businesses, focusing on fundamental research to tackle significant industry challenges.
One partnership involves a collaboration between Cambridge and Hitachi Europe Ltd. The project aims to develop a new method for converting green methanol, derived from captured CO2, into high-value chemicals used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and materials manufacturing. Led by Professor Ljiljana Fruk, the team intends to utilize compact, continuous-flow reactors that offer efficient chemical reactions with reduced energy demands and waste. Professor Fruk expressed enthusiasm about contributing to a cleaner future through science.
Another partnership involves funding from UKRI and Tata Steel. This initiative includes Cambridge University, Imperial College, and the Warwick Manufacturing Group at the University of Warwick. The focus is on innovating low-emission steel production as the UK steel industry transitions towards electric arc furnace technology. The program will address challenges associated with using high-recycled-content steel in demanding applications such as automotive components and packaging. Additionally, 13 PhD studentships will be funded across the three universities for research into advanced manufacturing of steels suited to EAF steelmaking. Professor Howard Stone highlighted the potential of combining data science with metallurgical expertise to support a sustainable future for the UK steel industry.