The University of Bolton’s Institute for Materials Research and Innovation (IMRI) has won the University Spin Out prize at this year’s Energy Innovation Awards (EIA).
The IMRI received the award for its unique fibre that can harvest energy from the sun, wind, rain and tides. The flexible nature of the material means it can be incorporated into fabric, giving it numerous practical applications. It can be knit or woven into anything from clothing to cases for personal gadgets, constantly charging everything from your mobile phone to MP3 Player.
Director of IMRI, Professor Elias Siores, is the principal inventor of the material. He said: ‘Renewable energy sources such as sunlight, wind and rain are not always available at the same time in the same location. Our hybrid material has combined flexible photovoltaic materials, which harness solar energy, with flexible piezoelectric fibres that generate power through movement. This combination allows the material to produce power in all weather conditions and environments. It could then be knitted or woven into any larger material structure, such as a sail, window curtain or tent and generate power.’
Prof Siores worked closely with Dr Ravi Hadimani and PhD student, Derman Vatansever, on the project and is happy the team’s work has been recognised. He added: ‘We are thrilled to get the award and I’m sure the recognition by the EIC will lead to commercialisation benefits. This prize gives the team the credit it deserves for all the hard work that has gone into the research and development of the material. We thank the Knowledge Centre for Materials Chemistry for funding the development.’
The awards are organised by the Energy Innovation Centre (EIC). They recognise the outstanding achievements of individuals and organisations working in energy innovation and sustainability. Around 200 industry professionals and academics attended the formal event, which attracted entries from across the UK and Europe.
Director of EIC, Denise Massey, said: ‘These awards celebrate the pioneering work taking place behind the scenes to develop the next generation of energy products and services which will benefit the wider industry, customers and the environment.’