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  • A path to 2030 clean power targets

    A path to 2030 clean power targets

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    Clare Jackson, CEO of Hydrogen UK, sets out the steps taken by Hydrogen UK and the UK hydrogen industry as a whole to advance hydrogen technology and industry to meet 2030 clean power targets.

    As we stand at the threshold of 2025, the urgency to transition to clean power has never been more palpable. The UK government has set an ambitious target to achieve 2030 clean power targets, and hydrogen is poised to play a pivotal role in this transformation. Reflecting on 2024, it has been a year of anticipation and strategic planning. In response, we at Hydrogen UK launched the Hydrogen UK Manifesto, providing a roadmap for hydrogen technology and infrastructure. Since its launch, significant strides have been made, but there is still much to be done.

    A year in review: The foundations of a new government

    Our members’ asks of the new government have been instrumental in shaping the hydrogen landscape. Our manifesto outlined policy recommendations for the new UK government to support the growth of the hydrogen sector from 2025 to 2030.

    Key points from the manifesto include:

    • Immediate action: Urging the government to progress first-of-a-kind hydrogen projects, fund projects within the Cluster Sequencing Process, and expedite allocation rounds for Hydrogen Storage and Transport Business Models.
    • Deliver on targets: Supporting a technology-agnostic approach to meet the UK’s 2030 target of 10 GW of low-carbon hydrogen production, reviewing policies to reduce production costs, and committing to annual hydrogen allocation rounds.
    • Infrastructure development: Calling for clear targets and timelines for hydrogen transport and storage infrastructure, the development of a core network of hydrogen pipelines, and comprehensive regulatory reform to accommodate hydrogen use in existing networks.
    • Low Carbon Fuels Strategy: Recommending the publication of a Low Carbon Fuels Strategy, equal recognition and funding for hydrogen-fuelled vehicles, and a strategic plan for hydrogen refuelling stations.
    • Technological flexibility: Advocating for maintaining technological flexibility in policy decisions for wider heat decarbonisation.
    • Local content ambition: Setting a voluntary ambition of 50% UK local content across the hydrogen value chain from 2030.
    • Investment in trade: Encouraging investment in hydrogen imports and exports to position the UK as a future hydrogen trade hub.
    • Public sector finance: Suggesting targeted public sector finance into UK supply chain companies and a strategic approach between government and industry to attract overseas supply chain companies into the UK.

    Bridging the gap

    It’s been their first few months, so many elements of the manifesto have yet to be fully realised by the government. The industry is eagerly awaiting progress on several fronts. Ensuring that first-of-a-kind hydrogen projects can progress to final investment decisions by overcoming issues presented by the Low Carbon Hydrogen Agreement is crucial. We are pleased that this month the funding of projects within Track-1 of the Cluster Sequencing Process was announced and we now await the announcement of successful Track-1x and Track-2 Projects. Expediting the first allocation rounds of the Hydrogen Storage Business Model and Hydrogen Transport Business Model is essential. Adopting a single standard for low-carbon hydrogen across all government support mechanisms is another critical step. Reiterating the commitment to future hydrogen allocation rounds and releasing the consultation on the design of the hydrogen funding mechanism are necessary to maintain momentum. Progressing gas distribution network hydrogen blending to mitigate demand risks for early hydrogen production projects is vital. Delivering substantial infrastructure development, regulatory clarity, and sustained financial support to scale up production and distribution are imperative for the industry’s growth.

    Industry highlights: Pioneering progress

    Despite this gap, our member organisations have made significant strides this year, showcasing the potential of hydrogen in various sectors, and thus the first to be recognised in our Hydrogen UK Awards. HVS has made operational hydrogen-powered heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) a reality, demonstrating the viability of hydrogen in the transportation sector. Fuel Cell Systems Ltd (FCSL) has been recognised for its innovative hydrogen fuelling solutions, notably at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed, using its mobile refuelling truck with green hydrogen. Exolum has demonstrated excellence in the transport and storage of hydrogen using Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers (LOHC) in repurposed oil pipelines and storage tanks. Carlton Power has been acknowledged for advancing green hydrogen production projects to aid industrial companies in transitioning from natural gas. Lastly, HiiROC Ltd and Centrica plc have been recognised for utilising Thermal Plasma Electrolysis technology to produce low-carbon hydrogen, aiming to decarbonise gas peaking plants in the UK.

    Hydrogen UK highlights

    This year, Hydrogen UK hosted a Hydrogen Investment Forum in collaboration with DESNZ, which saw over 300 C-suite attendees and 80 government officials come together to propel the hydrogen industry forward. Additionally, our Hydrogen UK Parliamentary Reception was a notable event where we had the privilege of hearing from Sarah Jones, Minister for Industry (responsible for hydrogen). This was her first public address to the hydrogen industry following the recent election. Minister Jones reaffirmed the government’s commitment to hydrogen, highlighting its diverse end uses and its potential to transition jobs and deliver economic benefits across the UK. She emphasised the importance of fostering a strong partnership between industry and government and acknowledged the critical need to advance HAR1 projects, which remains one of our association’s top policy priorities. In her address, Minister Jones announced that she is developing a decarbonising industry strategy as part of a broader industrial strategy, and she welcomes active engagement from the industry on this initiative.

    Hydrogen UK will continue to collaborate with our members, DESNZ, the Hydrogen Innovation Initiative, the Hydrogen Delivery Council, and other stakeholders to advance our members’ priorities.

    Looking ahead to 2025

    As we look ahead to 2025, our hopes are high. We aim to build on the progress made in 2024 and address the challenges that remain. Our focus will be on helping the country decarbonise sectors that are difficult to abate, leveraging hydrogen technology to grow the economy and create jobs, and becoming a north star for job transition from oil and gas to hydrogen. We also aim to be a critical enabler to meet clean power targets by 2030.

    As the CEO of Hydrogen UK, I am deeply committed to driving this transformation. The countdown to clean power by 2030 has begun, and every step we take brings us closer to a future powered by clean energy. Let us embrace this journey with optimism, resilience, and a shared commitment to a scalable hydrogen economy.

    Here’s to a new year, and I’m looking forward to supporting the industry with its ambitions, moving forward with increased speed.

    Please note, this article will also appear in the 20th edition of our quarterly publication.

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  • Applied Research and Innovation Services solves real-world problems with solutions that matter

    Applied Research and Innovation Services solves real-world problems with solutions that matter

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    SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS) works as a hub of collaboration with industry partners to create commercial solutions through applied research.

    The speed of change affecting the world is massive — and a shared ability to respond is essential. Looking ahead to collaboration through Horizon Europe and in support of an international approach to tackling real-world problems with innovative solutions, SAIT researchers can be found in the network of Horizon Europe researchers.

    Located in Calgary, at the heart of Western Canada, the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology’s ARIS Hub is a driving force behind Alberta’s cutting-edge research landscape. The 79,000 square foot state-of-the-art research labs and facilities are fuelled by a dynamic team of more than 70 research experts dedicated to providing services and solutions.

    Jamie McInnis, Director of ARIS Hub, said: “Our research team is characterised by a high level of talent and specialised knowledge, supported by high-level facilities.

    “Our goal is to establish the ARIS Hub as a centre for applied research in Alberta, anticipating challenges and developing innovative solutions, which drive impactful advancements for the broader community.”

    The Hub bridges the gap between academia, industry and communities, uniting researchers, innovators, and students. This dynamic fusion cultivates skills, drives innovation, and transforms concepts into tangible solutions, significantly advancing economic and environmental efforts both locally and globally. Building relationships with new industry partners in emerging growth sectors is key to supporting economic diversification.

    Applied Research and Innovation

    This practical approach focuses on the direct application of knowledge and the creation of innovations to address industry and community needs. Focused around four key research areas and developed by a team of information technology experts, each project is defined and supported from design to pre-commercialisation.

    Key research areas include:

    • Centre for Energy Research and Clean Unconventional Technology Solutions (CERCUTS)
    • Centre for Innovation and Research in Advanced Manufacturing and Materials (CIRAMM)
    • Centre for Innovation and Research in Unmanned Systems (CIRUS)
    • Green Building Technology Access Centre (GBTAC)

    Empowering energy innovation at the Centre for Energy Research and Clean Unconventional Technology Solutions

    The Centre for Energy Research and Clean Unconventional Technology Solutions (CERCUTS) works with partners to harness the power of green energy initiatives and sustain conventional energy resources. The one-of-a-kind research facilities enable the team of researchers and technologists, with expertise in chemical and process engineering, electrochemistry, environmental science and analytical instrumentation, to provide solutions to national and international energy challenges.

    Dr Ehsan Aminfar, Research Chair at CERCUTS, said: “As a technology solutions provider, CERCUTS is working with industry toward a more sustainable future.

    “Our applied research partnerships accelerate innovation through reduced risk for organisations during the research process and connects startups with large enterprises looking for new approaches to solve environmental challenges.”

    Some of CERCUTS’ recent collaborations include:

    • Oil and gas producers developing more sustainable and efficient processes.
    • Energy storage technology developers.
    • Water treatment and purification companies.
    • Hydrogen and fuel cell developers and innovators.
    • Subject matter experts looking to complete proof-of-concept, prototype and feasibility testing.

    Stabilising renewable energy with vanadium battery

    As the demand for electrical energy increases, so does the need to find appropriate energy storage solutions. Renewable energy sources like solar and wind can be unpredictable. The vanadium redox flow battery is a breakthrough technology to ensure a consistent energy supply by capturing excess energy during peak times and releasing it when production dips.

    The battery stores energy in liquid form, making it perfect for large-scale energy storage. The first installation will be at the high school in Frog Lake First Nation, an Indigenous community in northern Alberta, Canada, where it will provide backup power.

    Improving once-through steam generation processes

    A $2m research collaboration is focused on finding improved energy and environmental solutions to one of the oil and gas industry’s most common operational problems in the oilsands: erosion and corrosion in once-through steam generators (OTSG).

    As part of the project, researchers from CERCUTS opened a OTSG laboratory which will use scaled-model OTSG pilot rigs to conduct in-situ steam research, allowing testing to take place without having to compromise commercial units in the field.

    Propelling innovation at the Centre for Innovation and Research in Advanced Manufacturing and Materials
    The Centre for Innovation and Research in Advanced Manufacturing and Materials (CIRAMM) fosters cutting-edge digital manufacturing technologies and pioneers solutions in novel materials across diverse industries.

    CIRAMM is the newest centre in the ARIS Hub and collaborates with partners in various service areas. These include design, simulation, manufacturing and prototyping, materials and processing, material characterisation, and robotics and automation.

    Dr Hamid Rajani, Research Chair at CIRAMM, said: “Investment in smart manufacturing and materials will create vital new opportunities to collaborate with industry.

    “By focusing on strategic industries such as aerospace, digital manufacturing, construction and energy, CIRAMM enhances efficiency, resilience and sustainability, driving significant advancements in these fields.”

    NATO Defence innovation accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) partnership

    NATO’s Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) network is working to connect innovators with the resources needed to develop dual-use technologies with a wide variety of security and civilian applications.

    ARIS Hub is joining the network to lend its expertise in materials science, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, robotics and automation through CIRAMM. As one of two test centres in Alberta and 13 in Canada, CIRAMM will provide services to support start-ups and entrepreneurs as they demonstrate and validate emerging security solutions. Access to SAIT’s cutting-edge facilities and advice from the team of research experts will be available to innovators associated with DIANA’s more than 200 affiliated sites and centres.

    Integrating AI adoption into manufacturing and materials

    CIRAMM’s five cutting-edge laboratories — robotics and automation, advanced manufacturing, intelligent design and additive manufacturing, advanced materials characterisation, and composite and sustainable materials — drive research at the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and materials science. By leveraging AI for predictive algorithms and novel material design, CIRAMM is developing solutions that optimise manufacturing processes and accelerate the creation of advanced materials.

    CIRAMM’s projects include AI-driven modelling for materials performance, design and development of metamaterials, machine learning algorithms to predict manufacturing system behaviours, and the integration of AI and robotics to streamline production. This holistic approach addresses critical industry gaps and aligns with global sustainability goals, fostering adaptive manufacturing ecosystems.

    Focusing on the construction sector at the ACT Hub

    CIRAMM’s Alternative Construction Technologies (ACT) Hub will play a role in filling gaps in local construction productivity by reducing project costs, enabling more efficient and higher quality production while minimising environmental impact.

    • The ACT Hub advances collaborative activities between academic and industrial experts
    • This dynamic space incubates and commercialises emerging technologies through state-of-the-art automation and materials science facilities, while training multidisciplinary and highly qualified personnel.
    • The ACT Hub fosters meaningful, accessible and available solutions to support affordable housing.

    CIRAMM works with partners in small- and medium-sized enterprises as well as large corporations, such as ABB and De Havilland, to advance projects from the initial design concept through to prototyping and testing.

    Mastering drone evolution at the Centre for Innovation and Research in Unmanned Systems
    The Centre for Innovation and Research in Unmanned Systems (CIRUS), is the most advanced remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) research and development centre in North America, with some of its systems and sensors being unique to the continent.

    Wade Hawkins, Research Chair at CIRUS, said: “Combining new RPAS technology, such as beyond visual line-of-sight operation and heavy payload lift, along with advances in sensors, image accuracy, data analysis and telemedicine has led to incredible innovation.

    “By tapping into the cross-disciplinary environment of the ARIS Hub, our research teams are uncovering solutions for improved safety in hazardous and remote areas, expanded data collection, more accurate insights and greater operational efficiency across diverse industries.”

    Researchers work across a diverse range of sectors to address four key challenges with industry partners:

    • Innovative applications of unmanned vehicles.
    • Sensors and related equipment.
    • Application and customisation.
    • Validation and integration of data products derived from unmanned systems.

    Delivering medical support to remote communities

    Using an RPAS capable of lifting up to 45kg, this joint research project works to improve medical services for Indigenous communities and remote access sites. CIRUS and partners at the University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services began the project during the COVID-19 pandemic to test the delivery of PPE and test kits to remote communities, as well as their safe return to medical centres for testing.

    In the latest stage of the project, the team test delivered an emergency medical treatment (Stop the Bleed) to a volunteer. The drone was able to deliver the kit within reachable distance of the volunteer, who then unpacked the kit, set up a phone to connect with a remote medical mentor and successfully treated the injury. The combination of RPAS medical delivery and remote communication support could improve outcomes for those living in Indigenous communities and remote access sites.

    A remotely piloted future

    In 2023, CIRUS launched the Professional Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems certificate, the first programme of its kind in Canada, to meet the growing demand for heavy-lift drone pilots and technicians. Initially available with one intake, the programme quickly moved to two intakes and continues to have a waitlist at every intake. To deliver world-class training at the centre, two SAIT employees, Sara Ashoori and Stephanie Lapointe completed the certification process and are the first female flight instructors for heavy-lift, long-range drones in Canada. Instructors from CIRUS provide training comparable to that of an aerial vehicle, where pilots receive an intensive education to operate a specific aircraft.

    Common uses of unmanned aircraft systems — such as surveying and mapping — are often the starting point for longer-term industry collaborations. Partnerships advance as benefits stack up.

    Building for the future at the Green Building Technology Access Centre

    Since 2008, the Green Building Technology Access Centre (GBTAC) has spearheaded applied research and development for the commercialisation of sustainable building technologies. As one of only three Technology Access Centres in Canada focused on the construction sector, GBTAC takes a collaborative approach with organisations to identify and develop new technologies, processes and systems.

    Melanie Ross, Research Chair at GBTAC, said: “With a focus on the future, GBTAC partners with industry to advance sustainability in the built environment.

    “Currently, one of our focus areas is developing deep energy retrofit solutions and strategies to advance sustainable building practices locally, regionally and with Indigenous communities.”

    The team boasts a wide range of expertise — architectural, mechanical, civil, environmental, carpentry, energy, data and modelling — to advance research that will fundamentally transform how to build, educate, and develop skilled tradespeople.

    Located on SAIT’s main campus, the 16,000-square-foot Green Building Technology Lab and Demonstration Centre is a living, breathing example of energy efficiency, building-integrated green technologies and renewable energy solutions. The space includes:

    • The cold climate mechanical testing lab.
    • The renewables lab (photovoltaic and thermal energy, battery storage).
    • Water lab, greywater filtration, green roof.
    • Structural, hydrothermal building envelope testing.
    • Wall sample library and education centre.

    Partnership with Frog Lake First Nation

    Two projects were developed through an ongoing research partnership with Frog Lake First Nation, an Indigenous community in Alberta, Canada, to create solutions that address immediate and long-term sustainability goals for the community. These projects align with Indigenous cultural values, such as land stewardship, sustainability, and balance.

    The first project addresses housing challenges with two community-driven housing designs that embrace net-zero principles for emissions and energy efficiency. The homes will be durable, built with readily available materials and easy to maintain by residents and local professionals.

    To find innovative energy solutions, the second project is a joint ARIS Hub project with GBTAC and CERCUTS, and includes small-scale vertical axis wind turbines (VAWT), which have a compact design perfect for populated areas, enabling decentralised energy generation. This project will pair a commercial VAWT with the vanadium battery CERCUTS has developed to provide backup power at Frog Lake Tus-Tuk-EE-SKAWS High School.

    Research in action: Designing a temporary city

    Following a multi-year series of projects, Canada’s Department of National Defence awarded the top prize in their pop-up city contest to the Circular City team. Circular City’s groundbreaking solution featured the world’s first mobile wastewater recycling system powered by renewable energy. The innovative final submission reduced fuel, water and waste for relocatable temporary camps, redefining logistics for military bases, remote communities and disaster response units.

    GBTAC’s ongoing projects accelerate efforts to meet national net-zero goals and reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions in the building sector.

    Boosting results with independent researchers

    Customised solutions require custom electronics. The ARIS Hub’s four centres are supported by a team of independent researchers who specialise in information technology and computer sciences and tailor technology to match each project’s specific requirements. From the field and specialised labs, like the state-of-the-art surface mount technology (SMT) laboratory, research is underway to address challenges, foreign object detection, and methane leak detection.

    Staying agile at the SMT lab

    The SMT laboratory supports comprehensive electronic design, assembly and testing processes from initial concept to final product for academic and industry-level research and development needs. The technology allows the team to assemble electronic components directly onto a printed circuit board.

    Using industrial-grade machines; the pick-and-place machine and a sophisticated five-stage reflow oven, expedites assembly processes, which are invaluable for prototype development and small-scale production runs. The in-house assembly process significantly speeds up the design and testing workflow, as engineers and technicians can quickly assemble prototypes, adjust and re-test without the delays associated with outsourcing.

    Gaining insights for methane detection

    Methane emissions reduction is a complex issue. Sources must be identified and monitored, while emissions need to be measured, quantified, and recorded to provide insights needed for effective mitigation strategies. Despite the advances in sensor technology, independent methane monitoring studies have exhibited significant discrepancies between measured quantities.

    The ARIS Hub is working to develop a method to more reliably quantify methane emissions to address this challenge. Through controlled release experiments using a drone, an open-path laser spectrometer, a column-density meter and drone-mounted sensors, a methane leak source data is collected and subjected to further numerical analysis for method development.

    Discover SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services, a driving force behind Alberta’s cutting-edge research landscape.

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  • Diversifying Europe’s protein supply

    Diversifying Europe’s protein supply

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    Marja-Liisa Meurice, Director for EIT Food North and East Region, and Lorena Savani, Mission Lead (Healthier lives through food), at EIT Food discuss how Europe’s protein supply can be diversified to meet the increasing demand for non-meat protein.

    As consumers strive to make more conscious decisions when it comes to food for the health and environmental benefits, the demand for plant-based proteins is continuing to rise. With the global population expected to increase from eight billion today to almost ten billion by 2050, it is clear that the world needs sustainable ways of producing new high-quality, safe and healthy proteins to ensure adequate nutrition for the planet.

    EIT Food accelerates innovation to build a future-fit food system that produces healthy and sustainable food for all. The organisation invests in projects, connects stakeholders across the food system, and focuses on innovation to help make our food system more sustainable. Protein diversification, including plant-based and alternative proteins, is a large focus of EIT Food’s work, and it runs and supports various initiatives to enhance research and drive innovation in this area.

    To learn more about the future of plant-based and alternative proteins in the EU, Editor Georgie Purcell spoke to EIT Food’s Marja-Liisa Meurice, Director for EIT Food North and East Region, and Lorena Savani, Mission Lead (Healthier lives through food).

    How has demand for plant-based proteins increased in Europe in recent years? What factors have influenced this?

    Marja-Liisa Meurice (MLM): Consumer perception is changing. Younger generations are keen on exploring other ways of consuming protein rather than animal-based proteins. Having said this, demand for animal-based proteins remains the strongest for many reasons, including health factors, availability and price.

    Many people are now starting to examine the shift we can make towards reducing our consumption of animal-based protein and finding a balance. At EIT Food, we created the Protein Diversification Think Tank to look at how this can be achieved. Most consumers will not want to go to extremes, but are open to ways in which they can reduce their consumption of animal-based proteins. In addition, there is the question of what food producers, scientists, and innovators can do to create more diverse access to plant-based protein that is affordable, tasty, and has a positive impact on our environment and health globally.

    Lorena Savani (LS): We have seen that demand for plant-based protein in Europe has significantly grown in recent years. This is mainly due to increased consumer awareness of health and environmental benefits, as well as concerns about animal welfare and a desire for more sustainable food options. Plant-based stands out amongst the different protein sources currently. As Marja-Liisa mentioned, the younger consumers are driving this trend. The change is influenced by the media coverage of climate change and sustainability, as well as increased improvement in recent years in the taste, texture, and availability of plant-based products.

    A study conducted by the Good Food Institute Europe (GFI Europe) found that sales of plant-based food grew 5.5% in value and 3.5% in volume in 2023. The study, which analysed retail sales data from Circana covering six key European countries, also found that 37% of households in Germany and 19% in Spain bought plant-based meat at least once in 2023, while more than a third of the German household and 40% in Spain bought plant-based milk at least once.

    Is the EU’s plant-based product supply currently enough to sustain demand?

    MLM: Currently, it is satisfying demand but it is certainly not enough to support the growing population and its changing needs. We need to think about the future with a broad approach. We must address what we are growing today and look at what we could be growing in the future. To make products that are tasty, good value, and accessible for everyone, we need to gear up our production and our approach.

    LS: EU supply of plant-based products is currently insufficient if we consider the growing population. The EU currently relies heavily on imports for plant-based protein sources, such as soy and other legumes. We must start the local production and diversification of plant-based protein sources within Europe to meet this consumer demand and achieve food security. We are sustainable at the moment, but we need to be prepared for the future.

    How can the EU diversify its plant-based and alternative protein supply?

    MLM: There are several ways this can be done. When we are looking at the future of proteins, we must consider the food strategies in the different Member States. Innovation is also key here and we need to focus on the areas where we want to drive innovation. For example, in cell-based agriculture – the production of animal-based proteins from cell cultures.

    We must determine what the approach is on national strategies in terms of food security, food resilience, and competitiveness. As Lorena mentioned, we are heavily dependent on, for example, certain crops from abroad. This is not sustainable, and we must make changes to reduce this dependency.

    There needs to be more national strategies that reflect EU policies and strategies. They must also reflect the agrifood system and its stakeholders throughout the whole value chain, from farmers to consumers. To enhance innovation in these areas and allow innovation in, for example, cell-based agriculture to take place, we also need to make sure that the novel foods align with EU-level strategy.

    The EU can also improve its funding schemes with increased funding. For example, food should definitely be part of biotechnology funding schemes.

    plant-based proteins
    © shutterstock/Josep Suria

    LS: Of course, the EU needs to support the development of alternative protein sources. Biotechnology will be a big enabler in this. For example, it presents the possibility for crop improvement and yield enhancement. Fermentation-derived protein is another amazing opportunity.

    For example, we have been seeing some startups that are using natural resources to create proteins from materials such as wood. There are different types of technologies that can boost the diversification of plant-based and alternative proteins into the market. For these technologies to flourish, investment support and regulatory support is fundamental.

    How is EIT Food supporting innovation in plant-based protein? Can you share any examples of key projects in this area?

    MLM: From an investing and funding standpoint, at EIT Food we have an Impact Funding Framework instrument. Through this, we finance projects and innovations that align with three of our missions: Healthier Lives Through Food, A Net Zero Food System, and Reducing Risk for a Fair and Resilient Food System. Within these missions, we have three priority areas: Regenerative Agriculture, Protein Diversification, and Labelling, Packaging and Transparency.

    LS: As we have previously mentioned, the Protein Diversification Think Tank is a very important action that we are doing. Through this, we have provided recommendations, actions, and policy for protein diversification to drive the system transformation.

    Another example is the Marketed Innovation Prize, which rewards innovative food organisations that have successfully brought products into the market. Last year, we provided an innovation prize of €10,000 to Austrian alternative protein startup, Revo Foods. Revo Foods has developed a plant-based alternative to soy food using pea proteins, algae extracts, and plant oils. The company has been very successful in bringing the four products into the market over 20 European countries, including fish-free alternatives to smoked salmon and tuna spread.

    There are also three other startup winners of our 2024 EIT Food Accelerator Network Tech Validation Awards that we announced during our flagship event in October 2024, Next Bite. One was Esencia Foods, which is pioneering the way for sustainable and healthy food options in Europe by developing whole-cut, mycelium-based fish and seafood alternatives.

    Another was Typcal, which works with mycelium fermentation to create new ingredients for the food industry. Another example is Quest Meat, which is developing ingredients that will make cultivated meat affordable, scalable, and sustainable – three very important aspects that we need to tackle in the plant-based sector.

    What hurdles need to be overcome to ensure a sustainable and secure plant-based food system in the EU moving forward?

    MLM: Innovation needs to have the intake of the consumer but that will not happen unless the products are corresponding to their consumer needs and wants. With cell-based food, for example, it is difficult because very few people have ever tasted it. It is very important that we prepare the consumers in this journey and that we understand their expectations.

    The EIT Food Consumer Observatory seeks to do just that – by regularly consulting European groups and developing insights and resources for food system stakeholders on topics such as trust and cultivated meat. We must communicate to dispel people’s fears and concerns surrounding new, novel foods.

    With our knowledge base from our expert partners, EIT Food is working to provide information and transparency around the ingredients in such foods and break down the myths that this is ‘Frankenstein food’. This is not only our responsibility, but also that of our industry and policymakers moving forward.

    LS: Regulatory challenges are one of the biggest problems we face because novel food and alternative protein sources often have very lengthy approval processes. There is also a need for investment in infrastructure and supply chains to be able to handle this process and for Europe to distribute these new products effectively.

    Cost-effective processing technologies are also very important because we need to make products that are affordable for the mass population. In addition, to increase consumer acceptance, the products must be tasty and have the right texture. EIT Food is currently funding several projects committed to improving the texture and taste of these new plant-based alternative proteins.

    Please note, this article will also appear in the 20th edition of our quarterly publication.

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  • ISIS Neutron and Muon Source: 40 years of research

    ISIS Neutron and Muon Source: 40 years of research

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    From net zero to drug delivery, insights from neutron and muon experiments are helping to tackle some of the most pressing global challenges. The Innovation Platform spoke to Dr Roger Eccleston, Director of the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source, to find out more.

    Materials – whether engineering components, pharmaceuticals or computer chips – are the building blocks of our physical world. More than that, they are critical in solving many challenges and improving lives for the global society. In examining materials down to the atomic level, researchers are gaining a better understanding of the world around us and insights to develop new and improved materials with transformational applications. Neutrons and muons are two important probes in the researcher’s toolbox that can explore materials in ways other techniques cannot.

    Owned and operated by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source in Oxfordshire is a world-leading centre for research in the physical and life sciences. Since 1984, the facility has enabled scientists to study materials at the atomic and molecular level using a suite of instruments, each optimised to study different types of matter. Each year, thousands of scientists from the UK and across the world use the ISIS facility to acquire the knowledge needed to tackle major scientific, societal and economic challenges.

    As the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source celebrates its 40th anniversary this December, Editor Georgie Purcell spoke to Director Dr Roger Eccleston to learn more about the work that takes place at the facility.

    Can you summarise the work of the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source and the centre’s main objectives?

    The ISIS Neutron and Muon Source is a particle accelerator that produces very intense beams of neutrons and muons. The way these particle beams interact with materials can reveal their structure and behaviour down to the atomic level.

    ISIS is a multidisciplinary research centre that attracts scientists from UK universities and businesses, as well as international researchers. Each year, ISIS hosts around 3,000 researchers from over 30 different countries and conducts an average of 1,200 experiments across a broad range of fields, from quantum mechanics to cultural heritage.

    Our main objective is to push the boundaries of knowledge while delivering important economic and social impact. This means addressing key global challenges in areas such as climate change, healthcare, engineering, computing and more. We also prioritise fundamental and blue-sky research, recognising that breakthroughs that improve our understanding of the Universe often translate into technologies and solutions that benefit society.

    How can research using neutrons and muons help to impact and improve lives?

    The breadth of research undertaken at ISIS is immense but our core strengths lie in the areas of energy, environment, healthcare, engineering and quantum materials.

    neutron and muon source
    The interior of Target Station 2 of the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source
    © STFC

    Fundamentally, neutrons and muons allow us to explore materials in unique ways. For example, they can penetrate deep into objects, even within large and complex sample environments under extreme pressures and temperatures. Neutrons are also sensitive to light atoms, like hydrogen and lithium, which enables researchers to obtain detailed information on systems ranging from plant cells to solar cells. For example, in the drive toward net zero, tracking elements like hydrogen and lithium helps us better understand and therefore improve battery technologies. At ISIS, we have a dedicated team working to reduce dependence on some of the metals that make battery materials costly and hazardous.

    In healthcare, ISIS is supporting research into a wide range of drug delivery systems. One example is the lipid nanoparticle technology used in mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, which is being explored for a wide range of treatments against infectious diseases, cancer and genetic disorders. Neutrons are providing new insights into the structure and function of the lipid nanoparticles to determine how the pharmaceutical payload can be delivered more effectively. Our users are also working to develop hydrogels for drug delivery. Hydrogels can deliver medication, such as HIV and cancer treatments, through the skin at a controlled rate, providing stable, long-lasting and easy-to-administer treatments which could be transformative for regions with limited access to healthcare.

    At ISIS, we are also helping to develop safer and more resilient microchips, which are critical in everything from computers and medical devices to aerospace systems. The microchips used in many devices are vulnerable to the effects of particles generated when cosmic rays from space hit the Earth’s atmosphere. Cosmic ray neutron radiation can disrupt the normal operation of electronic systems, including altering a device’s memory or permanently damaging the electronics. Many companies that produce and use microchips want to test the resilience of their products to cosmic neutrons. At ISIS, we can mimic cosmic neutrons, replicating hundreds to thousands of years of natural exposure in a matter of hours. This helps us to understand and build in ways to protect against the effects of cosmic ray neutrons – something that is particularly important for safety-critical applications in the transport and aerospace sectors.

    neutron and muon source
    Microchips in position to be studied using the ChipIr instrument at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source
    © STFC

    ISIS celebrates 40 years in December. How are you marking this event?

    We’re incredibly proud to celebrate 40 years of the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source. Throughout the year, we have held many events to highlight the contributions and achievements of our staff and user community. This has included a series of Science Roadshows, which were held in Belfast, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Manchester and London. These have been research-focused meetings, providing a great way to celebrate the work of the people who use the ISIS facility.

    We’ve also held several staff events to recognise the talent and dedication of the people that are, and have been, critical to ISIS’s success. At our summer celebration, staff contributed to an anniversary time capsule created by ISIS technicians using parts from the ISIS machine. The contents will give future staff a glimpse into some memorable moments of the past 40 years — and a few inside jokes!

    Attendees of the ISIS Science Roadshows at Queen’s University Belfast, March 2024
    At the Science Museum, London, September 2024

    Looking ahead, we are hosting a special guest lecture at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory to reflect on past achievements and the exciting future ahead. The anniversary itself, which falls on 16 December, will be a time to celebrate with colleagues, reflecting on the events of the past year and marking 40 years since the first neutrons were produced at ISIS.

    For me, this anniversary has not only been a chance to celebrate the achievements of the last 40 years, but also an opportunity to acknowledge ISIS’s global reputation and our ambitious plans to continue to develop the facility into the future.

    Can you share some examples of some standout achievements from these 40 years?

    This is a question that I’ve been reflecting on throughout the year.

    neutron and muon source
    Staff celebrate the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source’s 40th anniversary in July 2024
    © STFC

    When the first high-temperature superconductors were discovered back in the 1980s, not long before ISIS began operating, ISIS contributed to some of the early work to determine the structure of those materials. We also carried out unique work around buckminsterfullerene molecules (‘buckyballs’) in the 1990s, investigating the structure and dynamics of these fascinating molecules.

    Since then, our research programme has only grown in breadth and complexity. More recent examples include work on quantum spin liquids, with potential applications in computing and communications, and studies on the mechanisms of antibiotics. These experiments highlight the immense scope and capabilities of the source and instruments, as well as the diverse impact of the research undertaken at ISIS.

    A major achievement has been building a vibrant community of researchers who use neutron and muon techniques to do incredible science. It’s also remarkable that, after 40 years, ISIS remains a world-leading research facility. When ISIS started, we quickly established ourselves as an exemplar neutron and muon source. Facilities in Japan, the US and China drew inspiration from the ISIS facility, and despite growing competition, we remain outstanding in both the volume and impact of our research. This success is due to the dedication of our teams, our global partnerships, our users and our continued focus on innovation.

    What has 2024 looked like for the facility?

    This year has been a time of celebration and reflection with great pride on what has been achieved. It has also been a year of ambition as we progress the Endeavour Programme – a ten-year, £93m project that will see us significantly upgrade and expand our instrument suite. As part of the programme, we are building four new instruments and undertaking major upgrades to five existing instruments. This will ensure we are adding new capability whilst continuing to stay very much in the vanguard of neutron and muon techniques globally.

    Plans are being developed for ISIS-II — the UK’s next-generation neutron and muon source. The image shows artist’s impression of the ISIS-II facility, subject to planning permission. Credit: Dominic Fortes and Paul Dobson
    © STFC

    We also have ambitious plans beyond Endeavour. This includes further instrument developments, as well as planning for the next generation of neutron source that we might develop over the next 10-20 years. Certainly, there is much excitement and optimism around the future of ISIS, building on the expertise and capabilities developed over the past 40 years.

    What are your key priorities for the near future?

    As always, a key priority is making sure we’re supporting our users to do great science. This drives our approach to developing the machine, instruments and accompanying facilities to ensure that we are operating reliably and at a high level, and that we’re providing excellent support for our users.

    We’re also focused on pushing forward with new developments and translating our ambitious ideas into reality over the coming decades. The next 40 years at ISIS look incredibly promising, and we’re excited to continue advancing our capabilities and expanding the impact of our research.

    Copy edited by Stephanie Richardson, ISIS Communications and Impact Lead

    Please note, this article will also appear in the 20th edition of our quarterly publication.

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  • How can household cables drive down UK copper shortage?

    How can household cables drive down UK copper shortage?

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    Becca Kirk, Biogeochemistry Consultant at the Critical Minerals Association (UK), explains how the answer to the UK copper shortage could be in our homes.

    Copper (cu) is a versatile metal, abundant in society due to its properties that make it an excellent electronic conductor used in many electronic products.

    Copper has been used in electronics, specifically cables, for many years, yielding millions of tons of material into circulation. With difficulties and lack of domestic recycling of these materials, millions of pounds worth of copper is found unused within the average UK household. Recycling alone could not supply enough copper to meet the projected increased demand, however synonymous recirculation of recycled copper alongside mining could prevent copper shortage in the UK and ensure material is available to meet the increased demand expectations.

    This article will dive into these lost copper resources, and the value the urban mine could have for recycling efforts within the UK.

    Copper and its abundance

    Copper is a reddish metal, prevalent in the natural environment. There are over 150 known copper minerals, and it is a trace element essential to many living organisms, humans included.¹  There are currently around ten copper minerals of economic importance, with around half of the world’s copper currently mined from chalcopyrite (CuFeS2).²  Copper is generally unreactive, but its chemical properties make it one of the most useful metals for electrical applications.

    Copper in the UK household

    Copper is an abundant material in the average household. It is present in the home wiring, white goods, small electronics and household cables. It is a highly recyclable material that can be passed through many production chains before any loss of functionality occurs. Copper is not currently considered critical in the UK; it is a strategic critical material in the EU and listed as critical in the US. Its projected demand is anticipated to skyrocket, and the development of a sophisticated recycling chain for portable copper-based products and cables may provide the UK with a stake in the copper market and provide materials for the manufacture of products for the green energy transition. In unused cables and electricals, the UK has huge volumes of recyclable copper. This equates to approximately 39,000 tonnes of copper, which is enough to build more than 1,200 Statues of Liberty³ and enough copper to nearly replace all the necessity for refined copper for two years.

    The electrical function of copper

    Copper has been fundamental in the electrical industry since the early 19th century, where its development for telegraphy spiralled into widespread use,⁴  due to the material’s high conductivity and low resistivity. The resulting product was a highly functional material that successfully transmits electrical currents with low risk of overheating.

    Products containing copper and copper wire have been central in the electrical revolution, only increasing with increased global energy consumption. Except for 2020, global energy consumption has increased by around 0.5-6% yearly for decades.⁵  With that, global copper mining and production has steadily increased to a production of around 22 million metric tonnes in 2023⁶  (Fig. 1). Demand for copper is projected to more than double by 2050 due to renewable technologies such as wind farms, solar PV, heat pumps and electric vehicles requiring high volumes of electrical components. It is believed there could be a 6.5-million-ton gap in production and demand for copper by 2033.⁷

    Is copper critical?

    Due to the increased demand, the European Union named copper a ‘strategic critical mineral’ in 2023⁷ and the U.S Department of Energy listed it as a ‘critical mineral’.⁸ A strategic critical mineral is defined as a mineral with diplomatic or defence importance, and ‘critical minerals’ as minerals necessary for the industrial objectives of a country or company often with supply chain vulnerabilities.⁹ Currently, the UK does not define copper as a critical mineral.

    Copper production and consumption in the UK

    Historically, copper has been mined in vast quantities in the UK, with around half the 19th century global output coming from Cornwall. However, British ores no longer contribute to global production. Even still, the UK’s consumption of refined copper remains around 22,000 metric tons annually, despite increasing scrap recycling capabilities over time.10

    copper resources
    Fig. 1: Change in global copper production from 2010-2023 (right), compared to the annual change in global primary energy consumption from 2010-2023 (left). Data from U.S. Energy Information Administration (2023) and USGS Mineral Commodities Survey, Copper, 2024

    Copper is one of the most recyclable metals, with the ability to pass through many recycling streams without losing functionality and efficiency. The UK currently has no established recycling chain for copper despite being a significant consumer, and electrical product user. The UK exports between 200,000 and 500,000 tons of scrap copper yearly for recycling,11 and it is believed around 30% of copper in use is now from recycled sources. It is predicted that at least 40% of mined copper is still in circulation.

    The household copper mine

    Recycling of copper has been ongoing for many years alongside the production of new copper-containing products and refining of copper ore. Global copper production from 2010-2023 alone equated to around 300 million tons. Therefore, vast quantities of copper currently aren’t entering recycling streams. Outside of the 40% still in use, and 30% of recycled material,12 there is a huge volume of copper missing from these streams. A large volume of copper is sitting in the average household, many of this functional in household wiring and white goods. However, new research states that there are around 1.3 billion unused electrical items stored in the UK household or mismanaged in waste streams, and around 630 million unused copper cables.³

    The copper content of the household cable

    Generally, all high-quality electrical cables are copper or aluminium based. Cables that transfer power and information contain copper wiring, and lower quality wires sometimes contain aluminium in addition to copper. It is an industrial standard for copper wires to be high quality, and it is a requirement for wires to contain 99.1% minimum pure copper.13 This is generally to minimise overheating risk and maximise the function of the electrical product.

    The composition of the electrical cable varies depending on function. This affects the number of wires, their gauge (thickness), length and amount of cladding needed for them. For many UK electricals, cables are manufactured to account for the need of the ground, earth and neutral wire for the three-prong plug system in place. However, the number of ‘cores’ (copper wires within a cable) can vary to values of around 7-20 wires for household cables such as some USB cables, fairy lights and extension leads.

    The thickness and gauge of copper wire is standardised using the American Wire Gauge size chart as a general convention,14 and these gauges correlate to the function of the cable the wires are manufactured into. As a rule, the thickness directly relates to the amount of electricity the cables are transferring and a greater thickness makes a higher output, more robust cable set. Therefore, when regarding copper content, it can be said that not all cables are created equally. In terms of copper weight per metre of wire, this can vary from 0.3g to 50g based on the function of the cable. However, factors such as heat output relating to the use of heavy-duty electricals require greater volumes of cladding and insulation for the cables. This increases the overall weight of the cable further alongside the greater masses of copper for these cable types. When considering all factors, it can be estimated that the average proportion of copper in a cable is around 20% to 40% of the total mass of the wire. Factoring this into the 630m unused copper wires estimated in the UK, over 3,000 tons of copper is currently unused and wasted in UK households and waste streams.³

    The implications of the forgotten electrical drawer

    The growing gap in copper caused by the loss of materials, unused in UK households, has been exacerbated by the lack of publication and knowledge of recycling routes for these materials. While suppliers have been responsible for the return of electrical goods for many years, copper cables have not been included in these rules and recycling campaigns have often been poorly publicised and not widely known.

    copper resources
    Fig. 2: Visualisation of the scale of waste copper in the UK household and relative quantities necessary for wind and solar projects in coming years (adapted from: Future of Copper Consumption Report from Material Focus, featuring Bloomberg Intelligence and Royal Society of Chemistry, September 2024.)

    Local policy has not always been the most beneficial in the return, reuse and recycle of products containing copper and other metals. However, in recent years, consultations for change have created more sustainable routes for reliable feedstock of recycled metal products. If we laid the UK’s unused cable out, it could be long enough to travel to the moon and back and carry over 3,000 tons of copper. This alone could fulfil the UK’s yearly technological demand for copper and provide 30% of the 347,000 tons of copper needed for the UK’s planned solar and wind energy projects from now to 2030.³ Therefore, it is clear, where the UK copper mining industry has declined, the opportunity for a stake in exportable and re-extractable scrap copper has skyrocketed. With better management of waste streams, and encouragement to clear out the dreaded cable drawers, the UK could contribute more than £200m of copper³ from recycling these products alone, and significantly reduce supply and demand risks for years to come.

    Conclusions

    An average UK household holds a significant volume of copper in unused cables and portable electronic materials that could help provide the UK with a stake in the copper recycling and production market. Encouraging the population to recycle their unused electricals to specialist recycling centres to enter circular supply chains will provide a reliable feedstock for the long-term recycling industry within the UK. Furthermore, a greater understanding of the composition of copper cables and materials allow for streamlined recycling routes and the reduction of unnecessary loss of materials as currently exhibited with the products.

    copper resources
    © shutterstock/Flegere

    Pairing this with the contribution of finance into a UK recycling stream through government and private investment would allow the UK to begin to develop a recycling industry for copper within the country and allow the country to directly benefit from the material through profit and use. Investment would be further encouraged through the addition of copper to the UK Critical Minerals list, highlighting the necessity of the material for both national security and green energy technologies.

    References

    1. Lossin, A. (2001), Copper. Ullmann’s Encyclopaedia of Industrial Chemistry. Available at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14356007.a07_471/abstract
    2. BGS (2007), Commodity profile copper, Available at: https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/7977/1/OR09041.pdf
    3. Future of Copper Consumption Report from Material Focus, featuring Bloomberg Intelligence and Royal Society of Chemistry, September 2024.
    4. Blake-Coleman, Barrie Charles (1981). The Rise Of Copper Wire, Its Manufacture And Use To 1900: A Case Of Industrial Circumspection.
    5. U.S. Energy Information Administration (2023); Energy Institute – Statistical Review of World Energy (2024)
    6. USGS Mineral Commodities Survey, Copper, 2024. Available at: https://pubs.usgs.gov/periodicals/mcs2024/mcs2024-copper.pdf
    7. European Commission, Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs, Grohol, M., Veeh, C. (2023) Study on the critical raw materials for the EU 2023: final report.
    8. U.S. Department of Energy, Critical Materials Assessment 2023
    9. Critical Minerals Association, Defining Criticality – What Makes a Critical Mineral?, 2021. Available at: https://www.criticalmineral.org/post/defining-criticality-what-makes-a-critical-mineral
    10. Jaganmohan, M. Approximate unwrought copper consumption volume in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2009 to 2022. Available at: https://www.statista.com/statistics/470246/copper-consumption-in-the-united-kingdom-uk/
    11. International Trade Centre. (2020). Annual volume of copper waste and scrap exported by the United Kingdom (UK) from 2010 to 2019 (in metric tons). Statista. Available at: https://www.statista.com/statistics/516013/uk-quantity-of-export-of-copper-waste-and-scrap/
    12. International Copper Association, Circular Copper: Building a Culture of Sustainability, 2021. Available at: https://internationalcopper.org/resource/circular-copper-building-a-culture-of-sustainability/
    13. Stratton, S.W. Department of Commerce and Labor, Circular Bureau of Standards, Copper Wire Table, 1912.
    14. ASTM B258-14. Standard Specification for Standard Nominal Diameters and Cross-Sectional Areas of AWG Sizes of Solid Round Wires Used as Electrical Conductors, 2014. Available at: https://web.archive.org/web/20140722072347/http://www.astm.org/Standards/B258.html

    Please note, this article will also appear in the 20th edition of our quarterly publication.

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  • Leading innovation in Montreal’s academic landscape

    Leading innovation in Montreal’s academic landscape

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    The Innovation Platform spoke with Effrosyni Diamantoudi, Dean of Graduate Studies at the University, to discuss Concordia’s unique contributions to Montreal’s academic landscape and the forward-thinking initiatives that tackle real-world challenges.

    Montreal is widely regarded as one of the world’s top university cities, offering a vibrant and diverse educational landscape that welcomes students from across the globe. Among the prominent institutions contributing to this dynamic environment is Concordia University. Although relatively young, Concordia is rapidly making a name for itself in research and graduate studies.

    What sets Concordia apart is its innovative approach to education. The university fosters a spirit of creativity and collaboration, creating an inclusive atmosphere where students and researchers can thrive. The Innovation Platform spoke with Effrosyni Diamantoudi, Dean of Graduate Studies at the University to discuss Concordia’s unique contributions to Montreal’s academic landscape, emphasising its commitment to interdisciplinary learning, substantial research funding, and forward-thinking initiatives that tackle real-world challenges.

    Montreal is often ranked among the world’s top university cities. How does Concordia fit into Montreal’s academic landscape?

    Montreal is a charming city that has a unique ability to welcome newcomers. I first arrived here in the 1990s as an international student and never left; the city truly embraced me. This experience is common in Montreal, where the rich multicultural environment creates a sense of belonging for its residents.

    Additionally, Montreal is an affordable and safe city, making it an excellent choice for students seeking to advance their education and researchers looking to develop their careers. The city provides a lively atmosphere where one can enjoy life and connect with people from around the globe. With a significant concentration of universities, Montreal serves as a bustling hub for education and research.

    Numerous centres and institutes across various universities promote collaboration, establishing the city as a remarkable centre for innovation. Furthermore, as a major urban centre, Montreal is filled with industries and NGOs, offering countless opportunities for partnerships with non-academic entities.

    What makes Concordia stand out when it comes to research and graduate studies?

    Concordia University is a relatively young institution, having recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. Being a younger university provides us with unique advantages; we are not bound by traditional academic practices, which allows us to be forward-looking, agile, and highly adaptable in our approach to education, research, and experiential learning. For instance, the university’s District 3 Innovation Hub offers students and researchers an incubator environment to develop entrepreneurial skills and work on real-world projects, a departure from the more theory-heavy focus of traditional academic scenes.

    Our dedicated School of Health plays a significant role in shaping our academic landscape, offering innovative programmes that emphasise the importance of health and wellness in society. In addition, we boast a variety of interdisciplinary programmes within our School of Graduate Studies, such as the Individualized Program (INDI) Graduate Studies, which allows students to create customised degrees that transcend traditional academic boundaries. Interdisciplinary focus enables our students and researchers to tackle complex real-world challenges from multiple perspectives, fostering creativity and innovation along the way.

    At Concordia, we hold research in high regard, and this is clearly demonstrated through the substantial funding we allocate to support our graduate students and researchers. Our financial commitments ensure that our students have access to the resources they need to pursue groundbreaking research initiatives. Our commitment is reflected not just in words but in actions. We actively support a wide array of initiatives, such as the AI Institute, fostering collaborative research initiatives that address pressing issues and advance our understanding in various domains.

    By cultivating an academic landscape that encourages exploration and creativity, Concordia University continues to push the boundaries of traditional education and research, preparing our students to be innovative leaders in their fields. A great example of this is Milieux Institute, a transdisciplinary research hub that fosters creativity and exploration at the intersection of arts, culture, and technology.

    How do Concordia’s foundation for research excellence contribute to securing a major investment in electrification research from the government of Canada?

    Volt-Age is an innovative initiative designed to advance society’s electrification in a sustainable and inclusive manner. Last year, the federal government provided $123m in funding to establish the programme and support its objectives.

    The programme has made significant progress in its early stages, notably by launching a recruitment drive for 250 new PhD students who will contribute to various research areas within Volt-Age. This influx of new talent is a promising development for the initiative, as these students will bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table.

    In pursuit of its mission, Volt-Age has forged several strategic partnerships with diverse organisations and stakeholders such as tech startups, legal experts, industry leaders like Hydro-Québec, government agencies, non-profits and international research networks. The initiative encompasses a broad range of electrification aspects, including the crucial technical components of developing advanced batteries and solar panels.

    Moreover, Volt-Age is committed to community engagement and collaboration. We are actively working with Indigenous communities, recognising their invaluable knowledge and sustainable practices related to land and energy resources. Additionally, we are partnering with the Climate Change Group and other key organisations to promote the transition to clean energy sources and address the challenges posed by climate change.

    It is truly inspiring to witness the collaboration among such a variety of disciplines – engineering, environmental science, community leadership, and public policy – coming together to work towards this larger, unifying project. This synergy not only enhances the effectiveness of our efforts but also fosters a shared vision for a more electrified and sustainable future.

    How does Volt-Age contribute to Concordia’s research strengths?

    Volt-Age contributes in four major ways: attracting new students, hiring talented faculty, improving our infrastructure, and providing critical funding for our researchers. This funding enables existing researchers to pursue innovative projects and expand their work, ultimately enhancing the academic landscape of our institution.

    Through Volt-Age, we are successfully expanding our graduate and post-doctoral recruitment efforts, reaching out to more people, and bringing in a wider variety of students who might not have considered joining us before. This added diversity will foster a more inclusive academic environment and enrich the overall learning experience.

    At the same time, we are enhancing our infrastructure significantly. This includes upgrading existing facilities and investing in new technologies to create a more conducive atmosphere for learning and research. These improvements are essential for accommodating our growing student body and facilitating advanced research programmes.

    Furthermore, an important aspect of our development through Volt-Age is the recruitment of highly qualified faculty members. By hiring experienced educators and researchers, we are strengthening our academic programmes and ensuring that our students receive top-notch instruction and mentorship.

    Concordia is actively recruiting PhD students worldwide to join Volt-Age. What makes this opportunity appealing, and why should they consider applying?

    This programme is a generous opportunity for students, providing a substantial stipend of $35,000 per year for four years. This financial assistance is crucial for graduate students as they embark on their academic journeys, allowing them to focus on their studies.

    However, the benefits extend beyond mere financial support. Students who participate in this programme will become integral members of a vibrant and expansive community of researchers dedicated to a significant and impactful project. This collaborative environment fosters meaningful connections and friendships, creating a robust support network that students can rely on both during their studies and long after they graduate.

    In addition to the foundational financial backing, Volt-Age enhances the student experience by offering a variety of additional resources. Among these are specialised workshops designed to develop skills in entrepreneurship and professional development, uniquely tailored for Volt-Age programme participants. These workshops aim to empower students to refine their research agendas and cultivate their overall career trajectories in academia and beyond.

    Furthermore, students will have the invaluable opportunity to engage with a diverse range of non-university partners with whom Volt-Age collaborates. This exposure will not only broaden their professional network but also provide them with insights into different industries and potential career paths, setting them up for success in their future endeavours. Overall, this opportunity is designed to equip students with the tools they need to thrive both academically and professionally.

    Please note, this article will also appear in the 20th edition of our quarterly publication.

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  • Exploring the neutrino universe with the Kilometre Cube Neutrino Telescope (KM3NeT)

    Exploring the neutrino universe with the Kilometre Cube Neutrino Telescope (KM3NeT)

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    Dr Paschal Coyle from the Centre de Physique des Particules de Marseille introduces the KM3NeT – a large astronomical telescope currently being built under the sea to explore the neutrino universe.

    Deep in the abysses of the Mediterranean Sea, scientists across Europe are busy constructing the Kilometre cube Neutrino Telescope (KM3NeT) – one of the largest astronomical telescopes ever built.

    Building a telescope so deep in such a hostile environment is not easy. Why have scientists embarked on such a challenging construction? The reason is to catch as many neutrinos as we possibly can.

    Neutrinos are a fundamental particle of matter. They have no charge, no size, almost no mass and interact via the weakest of the interactions. Even though neutrinos are the closest thing to nothing we can imagine, they are key to understanding the workings of the Universe. Although we literally swim in an ocean of neutrinos, with billions of them passing through our bodies every second, we know less about these particles than any of the other constituents of matter. For more than 80 years, physicists around the world have been chasing these mysterious and elusive particles. Neutrinos offer us the possibility of exploring the farthest reaches of the Universe, to figure out the origin of cosmic rays, and to probe the heart of the Sun and the inner workings of our own planet. Understanding neutrinos will help us explain how stars explode in supernovae, provide insights into the prevalence of matter over antimatter, and reveal the nature of dark matter.

    A European research infrastructure

    KM3NeT is a research infrastructure (RI) with two neutrino detectors, ARCA and ORCA. ARCA is located at a depth of 3,500m offshore of Sicily, while ORCA is located at a depth of 2,450m offshore of the South of France. For ARCA, a seawater volume of 1 km3 is sparsely instrumented, which is optimal for the detection of TeV-PeV cosmic neutrinos. In contrast, the much smaller water volume of 7 Mton of ORCA is densely instrumented, which is necessary for the study of sub-TeV neutrinos.

    About 300 scientists from 47 universities and 19 countries participate in the KM3NeT Collaboration. Originally European, the Collaboration has enlarged to include institutes from Africa, Australia, China and the USA. KM3NeT was supported by the EU for its design study phase and preparatory phase and is currently supported via an INFRADEV. It was selected as a priority RI on the 2006 and 2016 ESFRI (European Strategy Forum for Research Infrastructures) roadmaps. KM3NeT has also played a leading role in many EU-funded projects. The main countries contributing to the construction cost of the RI are France, Italy, and the Netherlands, with a significant contribution from various regional funds from the host sites in Provence and Sicily. The RI is planning to adopt an AISBL legal entity before the end of 2025.

    Innovative technology

    The key technology of KM3NeT is its many thousands of optical modules and beach-ball-sized spherical glass spheres, each hosting 31 ultra-sensitive light sensors pointing in different directions. Installed in a giant three-dimensional grid of vertical neutrino detection lines, these ‘eyes’ catch the faint glow of bluish Cherenkov light created when neutrinos interact with the seawater surrounding the telescope (see Fig. 1).

    Fig. 1: Artistic view of the KM3NeT neutrino telescope

    18 optical modules are hosted on each detection line. The lines are anchored to the seafloor and held taut by a submerged buoy. The bases of the lines are connected via cables on the seafloor to junction boxes, from which telecommunication cables, many tens of kilometres long, bring the data to shore along optical fibres. Information on every single photon detected is transmitted to the shore stations, where trigger algorithms are applied to select interesting events for offline analysis.

    The final ARCA detector will comprise 230 detection lines spaced about 100m from each other on the seafloor. The ORCA detector has half as many lines, and their spacing is four times smaller. As of October 2024, 33 and 24 lines are deployed in ARCA and ORCA, respectively.

    Unlike conventional telescopes KM3NeT does not need to be pointed in a particular direction; it can ‘see’ in all directions at the same time. Nevertheless, due to a large background noise from downgoing cosmic rays, its clearest vision is for upgoing neutrinos that have travelled through the Earth.

    KM3NeT
    Fig. 2: A KM3NeT optical module

    Fundamental neutrino physics

    Neutrinos come in three different types or flavours: electron, muon, and tau-neutrinos. About thirty years ago, it was discovered that neutrinos can transform from one flavour to another as they travel. This fascinating behaviour was not at all predicted by the Standard Model of particle physics. We know now that the different neutrino flavours are actually quantum superpositions of three unequal mass states. As the mass states propagate at different speeds, phase differences accumulate between their mass and flavour states, ultimately leading to an effect where the observed neutrino flavour appears to change back and forth over time, referred to as ‘oscillations’. As their experimental signatures are different, KM3NeT can distinguish the flavour of the detected neutrinos.

    Atmospheric neutrinos are abundantly produced in the Earth’s atmosphere as decay products of cosmic ray interactions and come in mostly muon and electron flavours. As they pass through the Earth, the relative abundance of the neutrino flavours are modulated through oscillations. For the GeV-scale neutrinos detected by ORCA, the primary effect observed is the oscillation of muon neutrinos into tau neutrinos over distances comparable to the Earth’s diameter. The strength and frequency of this modulation are characterised by the so-called atmospheric oscillation parameters. Already with only its 6-line data, KM3NeT/ORCA has recently published a competitive measurement of these parameters (see Fig. 3). Furthermore, many beyond Standard Model physics theories, such as sterile neutrinos, non-standard interactions, neutrino decay, etc., have also been constrained by studying possible deviations in the oscillation patterns. With more data and a growing detector, KM3NeT will soon have the world-leading measurements in many of these topics.

    Fig. 3: KM3NeT/ORCA measurement contour for the atmospheric neutrino oscillation parameters compared to other experiments

    A longer-term physics goal of KM3NeT is to determine the neutrino mass ordering, i.e. whether the third neutrino mass state is heavier (normal ordering) or lighter (inverted ordering) than the first two. This is important to help constrain the plethora of theoretical models proposed to explain the neutrino masses.
    Due to the large distances travelled by atmospheric neutrinos as they pass through the Earth’s mantle and core, subtle matter effects come into play and distort the expected oscillation patterns. By comparing the observed distortions with those expected for either the normal or inverted ordering, the mass ordering can be determined to a high confidence level after a few years of operation.

    Neutrino astronomy

    Weakly interacting with matter and electrically neutral, neutrinos can explore the Universe at greater distances and higher energies than is possible with conventional electromagnetic probes. KM3NeT’s excellent angular resolution and location in the Northern Hemisphere provides an optimal view of the galactic plane and makes it the ideal instrument to detect, characterise and resolve the sources that may emit galactic neutrinos..

    Since the observation of a flux of diffuse cosmic high-energy neutrinos in the TeV-PeV range by the IceCube Neutrino Observatory at the South Pole in 2013, the focus of many neutrino astronomers has been to identify the astrophysical origins of these neutrinos. Amongst the diverse possible sources, a multi-messenger astronomy approach has identified the first source: the flaring blazar TXS0506+056. However, the currently identified source population(s) do not fully explain the detected diffuse flux. KM3NeT with a sensitivity superior to that of IceCube and a complementary field of view allows the full neutrino sky to be continuously monitored.

    Indeed, recently KM3NeT has reported the detection of a remarkable muon neutrino of exceptionally high energy (see Fig. 4). The neutrino was near horizontal and illuminated one third of the detector, with the energy of the neutrino likely many tens of PeV; significantly higher than any neutrino previously observed.

    Fig. 4: An ultra-high-energy event detected by KM3NeT/ARCA in its 21-line configuration

    KM3NeT will soon start sending neutrino alerts to its multi-messenger astronomy partners, including electromagnetic wave instruments, other neutrino telescopes and gravitational wave detectors. While so far, no neutrinos have been observed from coalescing binary compact systems detected through gravitational waves, a joint gravitational wave/neutrino detection would reveal unique information on the high-energy processes in the environment of the mergers. Furthermore, the good pointing resolution of KM3NeT significantly reduces the region of interest where observatories should search for an electromagnetic wave counterpart.

    Last but not least, KM3NeT is already waiting for the next close-by core-collapse supernova. The KM3NeT optical modules are continuously monitoring for a simultaneous short-duration increase in the amount of light detected on many optical modules — the signature of a flash of MeV supernova neutrinos passing through the detectors. KM3NeT is networked with other neutrino telescopes via the SuperNova Early Warning System (SNEWS).

    Deep sea marine observatory

    The KM3NeT RI is also a unique deep sea cabled observatory open to all scientific communities, with both detector sites being nodes of EMSO (European Multidisciplinary Seafloor and water column Observatory). The seafloor networks of KM3NeT provide dedicated user ports, to which sensors can be connected, enabling long-term and high sampling frequency monitoring. This is helping marine scientists to understand the harmful effects of climate change and anthropogenic impact, as well as study biodiversity changes, pollution and episodic events such as earthquakes and tsunamis- all of which are difficult to study with short-term conventional marine expeditions

    Completion of KM3NeT planned for 2028

    The construction of the KM3NeT research infrastructure is well underway and the Collaboration is already providing interesting physics results. Each year it is steadily growing in size and sensitivity as it proceeds towards completion, anticipated for 2028. KM3NeT will then operate for more than 15 years, providing European scientists with a world-class facility to study the neutrino, explore the neutrino Universe as well as the deep sea.

    Please note, this article will also appear in the 20th edition of our quarterly publication.

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  • Trent’s freshwater research driven by expertise and collaboration

    Trent’s freshwater research driven by expertise and collaboration

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    Trent University in Ontario is engaged in a range of studies focused on addressing local and global freshwater issues, including microplastics, carbon cycling, and pollution.

    Freshwater resources are essential for sustaining life, supporting ecosystems, and providing human needs. Yet, these vital systems all across the globe are increasingly threatened by climate change, pollution, habitat loss, invasive species, and the list goes on.

    It might feel like the physical scale of these resources makes these challenges unmanageable, but you just need to look to Canada – one of the world’s largest countries and regarded as a leader in freshwater resource management – to be inspired and optimistic. Specifically, Trent University in Peterborough and Durham GTA, Ontario, is showcasing leadership in the field of freshwater research with its depth and breadth of knowledge, unique resources, and collaborative approach to understanding and informing solutions.

    Trent’s top researchers are leaders in water research

    Trent University boasts a diverse group of over 30 experts involved in and dedicated to freshwater and environmental research. This distinguished collection of experts consists of Canada Research Chairs, endowed chairs, biologists, hydrologists, ecologists, forensic scientists, chemists and many others with a wide range of knowledge, some even managing multimillion dollar research programmes.

    Leading the entire portfolio of research at Trent is Dr Holger Hintelmann, vice president of Research & Innovation and an internationally recognised chemist, who recently led a 20-year international collaboration on mercury pollution in lakes.

    Of the nine Canada Research Chairs at Trent University, six are experts in environmental topics and of those, two are focused on freshwater research. Dr Marguerite Xenopoulos, a biology professor at Trent University, is the Canada Research Chair in Global Change of Freshwater Ecosystems. She is not only studying one of North America’s most significant freshwater systems, the Great Lakes, but also an award-winning journal editor. She was recently recognised for efforts to improve global inclusion in science publishing.

    Canada Research Chair in Climate Change and Northern Ecosystems, Dr Andrew Tanentzap, studies how northern soils and freshwaters will respond to climate change and what this means for people. Professor Tanentzap is a professor at the Trent School of the Environment, including Trent’s Climate Change Science & Policy programme. He brings his research, which involves the use of advanced and rare mass spectrometry technologies at Trent’s Water Quality Centre, into his teaching and training of highly qualified personnel, offering Trent students the latest insights into the impact of climate change. Prof Tanentzap also joined the Royal Society of Canada in 2023, recognised for his groundbreaking work at the interface between ecology, evolutionary biology, and biogeochemistry.

    School of Environment professor and the former Canada Research Chair in Environmental Modelling, Dr Julian Aherne, is currently engaged in research to enhance our understanding of microplastic pollution in freshwater systems around the world and locally.

    Like Professor Aherne, many of Trent’s water researchers are engaged in research close to home. Dr Catherine Eimers, associate director of the Trent School of the Environment, monitors water quality in local watersheds in the Kawartha region. An assistant professor of Biology at Trent, Dr Graham Raby leads the Stoney Lake Fish Tracking Project, a flagship study of the Trent Aquatic Research Program (TARP), a programme that also features Dr Paul Frost, the David Schindler Endowed Professor of Aquatic Science at Trent.

    Trent’s premier facilities and regional landscape boost water research advantage

    While Trent’s leadership in water research is largely driven by faculty expertise, those researchers also benefit from the unique advantages of the University, namely access to advanced instrumentation, as well as geographic and topographic features in proximity to the campus.

    Trent University’s location in Peterborough and Durham GTA, Ontario, offers premium access to fresh water, positioning it as a hub for freshwater research and education. Trent is nestled within the Kawartha region, home to about 250 lakes, and sits along the banks of the Otonabee River, part of the Trent-Severn Waterway. The Trent-Severn is a man-made waterway spanning nearly 400 kilometres, linking Georgian Bay in Lake Huron to the Bay of Quinte in Lake Ontario.

    Trent is also located adjacent to the Muskoka Region, home to another 1,600 lakes, and at the forefront of freshwater microplastics research. Prof Aherne and Brittany Welsh, an Environmental & Life Sciences PhD candidate at Trent are working in collaboration with Ontario’s Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks to better understand the lifecycle of plastic particles in lakes. The team recently uncovered new insights into the pervasiveness and persistence of microplastics, showing they’re remaining in lakes for up to a decade or longer, not just passing through on their way to oceans as previously thought.

    On campus, Trent is home to Canada’s leading comprehensive mass spectrometry facility, the Water Quality Centre (WQC), which supports research measuring and analysing trace amounts of organic and inorganic contaminants in water and other environmental compartments. The advanced and, in some cases, rare equipment here attracts top researchers to work at and collaborate with Trent. As the WQC does not reside within any one academic department at Trent, it naturally facilitates multidisciplinary research and expands applications of the instruments by extending its analytical services and training courses to researchers, government agencies, and private companies. It’s another hub for freshwater research and education and is directed by Dr Paul Spzak, a professor in anthropology at Trent and the Canada Research Chair in Environmental Archaeology.

    While there are 13 advanced mass spectrometers at the WQC, the Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer (FT-ICR-MS) is one of only three in Canada and is at the centre of Prof Tanentzap’s Canada Research Chair programme. Prof Tanentzap’s work using the multimillion-dollar instrument to analyse the chemical diversity in freshwater samples with extraordinary detail has been published in Science. Through the use of this high-resolution instrument, Prof Tanentzap is building our understanding of the composition of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in freshwater systems, which is made up of thousands of distinct organic compounds, and how DOM has the potential to be a tool for tracking and restoring the health of freshwater systems.

    Trent excels at research collaboration

    To have the greatest impact, the pursuit of knowledge to better understand the health of local and global freshwater systems must be done collaboratively. Since its early days as a university, Trent has emphasised interdisciplinary research and teaching; working together not only makes better use of resources but also leads to more comprehensive perspectives and solutions.

    Spearheading international environmental research consortium

    Trent University is a founding member of the International Institute for Environmental Studies (IIES). The IIES fosters collaboration among faculty, students, and trainees, promoting joint research efforts in environmental science, engineering, and policy, and facilitates the sharing of expertise and resources.

    Founded in 2015, the institute now features 28 members from countries around the world, including Switzerland, the UK, Korea, Finland, and the US. The initiative underscores Trent’s commitment to addressing global environmental challenges together, but even more so demonstrates the University’s strengths in bringing experts from across the globe together to work on solutions in a variety of different ways.

    Global collaboration on microplastic pollution research

    Prof Aherne and PhD candidate Brittany Welsh were also part of a global collaboration on microplastics, examining plastic debris in lakes and reservoirs across 23 countries, with the research revealing that freshwater systems can accumulate microplastics as significantly as marine environments. All collaborators used standardised sampling methods, making it possible to compare microplastic concentrations globally and establish a comprehensive picture of contamination across diverse ecosystems. These findings, published in Nature, significantly advanced our understanding of plastic pollution’s prevalence in freshwater environments.

    freshwater research
    PhD candidate Brittany Welsh conducts field sampling for her research on microplastic pollution in Ontario’s Muskoka Region

    Investigating the Great Lakes at a great pace

    Prof Xenopoulos’ work studying global change of freshwater ecosystems involves significant research in the Great Lakes. It is one of North America’s, and perhaps even the world’s, most significant, freshwater systems, which is why Prof Xenopoulos joined the ‘Winter Grab’,  a first-of-its-kind collaboration between Canadian universities and US research institutions. Together, researchers are investigating how declining ice cover due to climate change affects water quality and life in and underneath the ice.

    The need for winter research is greater than ever as a new record for lowest ice cover on the Great Lakes was set in 2024, following the start of this research in 2022. Bringing 16 institutions together to tackle this rapidly evolving issue means we can work faster, share insights and resources, and ultimately develop a more comprehensive understanding of the consequences of ice cover losses and increasing air and water temperatures, particularly to help inform management decisions.

    freshwater research
    Dr Marguerite Xenopoulos stands at the edge of Lake Superior, the largest Great Lake in Ontario and a location of novel research led by Dr Xenopoulos’ research team

    20 years studying mercury pollution

    VP Hintelmann was not the only investigator in the 20-year mercury study. He was part of an international collaboration – the Mercury Experiment to Assess Atmospheric Loading in Canada and the US (METAALICUS) – that worked together over two decades studying mercury pollution. Large-scale and long-term projects like METAALICUS require commitment and patience, but with combined expertise and resources, these projects can also offer the opportunity to employ cutting-edge techniques.

    To study the sources, transport, and fate of mercury and heavy metal pollutants in water bodies, the research team monitored tagged mercury isotopes introduced into an experimental watershed system. Specifically, this project took place within the Experimental Lakes Area in northwestern Ontario, the only place in the world where scientists can manipulate real lakes, over the long term, to understand what human activity does to freshwater.

    The impressive ecosystem study revealed that in just five to ten years after mercury emissions were cut, mercury concentrations in fish dropped by as much as 76 percent, varying by species and lifespan. Ultimately, this study provided valuable insights into managing pollutants and minimising exposure to mercury pollution to ensure human health.

    At home in the Kawarthas

    Local partnerships are also core to Trent’s collaborative efforts, ensuring the research activity finds practical applications. Dr Catherine Eimers, associate director of the Trent School of the Environment, has led research teams in monitoring local watersheds in Ontario’s Kawartha region and working alongside local farmers to support adaptations to land management practices to reduce agricultural run-off.

    Through the Trent Aquatic Research Program (TARP), researchers from diverse disciplines at Trent work with external partners to tackle local water quality issues. Dr Graham Raby, assistant professor of Biology at Trent, leads the Stoney Lake Fish Tracking Project, a community-driven initiative tagging and tracking fish to inform conservation of fish populations in local lakes, on which many people depend for livelihoods and recreation and for ecosystem management.

    Future of freshwater research at Trent

    The future of freshwater research relies on collaborative efforts that extend beyond institutional boundaries to engage diverse stakeholders. Trent researchers collaborate with a variety of research partners – academics, community members, governments, non-profits, and more – to ensure that the research findings are relevant, comprehensive, and actionable.

    As a place of leading expertise and advanced technologies, Trent University can be a partner that bolsters the work of others in addressing the complex issues facing freshwater systems. Together, we’re developing strategies that enhance aquatic ecosystem resilience, formulating targeted interventions to improve water quality, monitoring and mitigating contamination in Canada’s freshwater resources, and informing water management practices and conservation of natural resources.

    We welcome more opportunities to work together to confront the challenges facing freshwater systems around the world.

    Please note, this article will also appear in the 20th edition of our quarterly publication.

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  • Transforming the lithium extraction landscape

    Transforming the lithium extraction landscape

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    Go2Lithium Inc. (G2L) stands at the cutting edge of the global lithium industry, dedicated to unlocking the full potential of lithium brine assets through innovative technologies and strategic collaborations.

    Lithium, often referred to as ‘white gold,’ is the critical element that powers the batteries fuelling our modern world. However, the extraction of lithium has long been plagued by challenges related to environmental impact, inefficiency, and high costs.

    At G2L, we bring extensive experience in guiding battery metals projects from initial flowsheet development to full commercial scale. Our commitment to excellence ensures that we deliver superior results at every stage of the lithium extraction process.

    Through its cutting-edge cDLE® technology, G2L offers a promising alternative to conventional methods. This technology, rooted in continuous ion exchange processing, has the potential to recover lithium from brines more efficiently, cost-effectively, and with a smaller environmental footprint.

    Game-changing lithium extraction technology

    Traditional methods typically involve extracting lithium either from hard rock (spodumene) or from salars (salt flats). These methods are quite different in their approach. Hard rock extraction can be energy intensive, followed by salars, which also require significant energy and time.

    In contrast, DLE dramatically reduces time, energy consumption, CO2 emissions, and environmental footprint. It fundamentally changes how lithium extraction is perceived. With DLE, we’re no longer digging large holes or using vast evaporation ponds that waste water.

    Instead, we simply extract lithium from a liquid by passing it through a sorbent, which captures the lithium, and then we can quickly restore the environment by putting the liquid back. Economically, DLE is also more advantageous. For example, the cost might be around $6,000 per tonne of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) with hard rock extraction, while DLE could bring that down to $3,000 to $4,000 per tonne.

    While traditional lithium extraction methods, such as those used in salars, typically recover only about 40-60% of the lithium present in the brine, DLE can achieve recovery rates as high as 90% or more. This is because the process is designed to selectively capture lithium ions while leaving other minerals and impurities behind. This selectivity not only increases the recovery rate but also improves the purity of the final product, which is a significant advantage in producing high-quality lithium carbonate or hydroxide.

    Our approach emphasises continuous operation and counter-current flow, where the sorbent moves in the opposite direction to the brine. This design maximises the efficiency of the sorbent, ensuring it fully loads with lithium and minimises the cost of the overall process.

    cDLE® technology

    Go2Lithium’s continuous counter-current processing technology, cDLE®, represents a significant advancement in lithium extraction. This innovative moving bed process efficiently transfers sorbents through sorption, washing, and desorption stages. Depending on the lithium concentration, total dissolved solids, and specific impurities in the brine, cDLE® can utilise either ion exchangers or adsorbents to optimise performance.

    In brines with low lithium concentrations (less than 100 mg/L), ion exchange is the preferred method within the cDLE® process due to its higher loading capacity and reduced desorption volume requirements. This approach allows for faster and more efficient lithium capture than adsorption, upgrading lithium from 100 mg/L in the feed brine to over 3,000 mg/L in the DLE product.

    Compared to traditional fixed-bed DLE processes like simulated moving beds (SMB carousels, ISEP, Septor, Puritech), cDLE® offers significant advantages. It handles more variable feed flows, lithium concentrations, and impurities, including suspended solids, while using lower-cost chemical reagents. This adaptability reduces pretreatment costs, making cDLE® a more viable and economical option.

    Recent performance results from LithiumBank’s Boardwalk Project in Canada, where cDLE® was employed, underscore the technology’s exceptional capabilities:

    • Lithium recovery: The cDLE® process achieved a lithium recovery rate exceeding 98% from the brine, the highest among the 15 technologies tested.
    • Lithium purity: The lithium eluate (concentrated lithium solution) produced by cDLE® was of the highest purity, significantly reducing impurities such as calcium, sodium, and chlorine by more than 90%.
    • Lithium concentration: The process increased the lithium concentration more than 40-fold, with the resulting eluate concentration surpassing 3,000 mg/L (3 g/L).
    • Cost-effectiveness: The reagents used in cDLE® are approximately one-third the cost of those used in the previous direct lithium extraction process at Boardwalk, which accounted for 54% of the total operating costs in the initial project evaluation.

    Calgary pilot plant

    LithiumBank has recently launched its highly anticipated Calgary DLE pilot plant, achieving a major milestone in its journey to tap into Alberta’s abundant lithium resources. This state-of-the-art facility is expected to play a critical role in the company’s long-term strategy, with insights from the pilot plant guiding the next phase of its commercial development efforts. Instrumental to the project will be Go2Lithium’s cDLE® technology, which has been selected as the DLE process for LithiumBank’s flagship initiative.

    Alberta, a province traditionally known for its oil and gas reserves, is now emerging as a key player in the lithium market. The region’s formation waters, typically a byproduct of oil and gas extraction, contain significant quantities of lithium. By employing Go2Lithium’s cDLE® technology, LithiumBank aims to extract lithium from these brines, which would otherwise be discarded.

    The pilot plant is designed to process up to 10,000 litres of lithium-containing brine daily, making it one of the largest DLE pilot plants in North America. Brines from LithiumBank’s Boardwalk, Park Place, and Saskatchewan projects will be transported to the Calgary facility for processing.

    Peter Voigt, CEO of Go2Lithium, expressed excitement about the partnership: “The cDLE® pilot plant employs advanced lithium extraction technology, which we expect will set new standards in sustainability and efficiency within the industry.

    “The project represents a milestone in the partnership between Go2Lithium and LithiumBank, aimed at advancing lithium extraction processes. The cDLE® technology underscores our commitment to environmental responsibility, minimising ecological impact while maximising resource utilisation.”

    LithiumBank’s pilot project is designed to achieve several key performance indicators, including lithium recovery rates, selectivity, flow rate, and concentrate quality. These metrics are crucial in determining the commercial viability and scalability of the company’s lithium extraction process. The pilot programme, which is expected to run for up to 18 months, represents an approximate 1:5,000 scale of future commercial production modules.

    There are some exciting prospects on the horizon for G2L. Our goal is to prove our technology across a range of brine concentrations, from low-grade to high-grade, and partner with a few key players to bring this technology to market. Hopefully, by the end of 2024, G2L will have secured a couple of significant deals and made progress on additional pilot plants.

    Please note, this article will also appear in the 20th edition of our quarterly publication.

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  • Investing in ocean innovation for a better world

    Investing in ocean innovation for a better world

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    Mark J Spalding, President of The Ocean Foundation, discusses how investing in innovative ocean companies can maximise returns and help to make the world a better place.

    The Ocean Foundation and its partners are developing regenerative opportunity investment portfolios by focusing on transitions resulting from, or in response to, change. This includes structural shifts related to environmental degradation, societal evolution, and technological innovation. Building credible new portfolios grounded in sustainability is challenging due to the dependence on the reputation of all partners involved in any efforts to improve the economic, social, and environmental wellbeing of human communities and the resources they depend on. Global ocean innovation is the key to human adaptability, as these transformative changes are coming. Innovative ocean economy companies can produce greater shareholder returns and build ecological and social resilience. Investors can use innovation as a hedge against inflation and a potential path to outperforming the market over the long term.

    Why focus on innovation?

    Innovation can be thought of as applying new ideas, methods, or products in a way that results in a beneficial change. Innovation involves the origination of a new thing – its conception and development – and the pioneering adoption. While traditional investing has focused on trying to understand the potential future earnings of a business, knowing that a company focuses on developing and cultivating innovation can be a better way for investors to predict the long-term potential earnings of that company. The internet and its continued global expansion are causing a secondary acceleration of innovation adoption. Because of this, we can expect innovation cycles to become more frequent and cause faster and more extreme change.

    How do we seek to capture ocean innovation?

    Our approach to investing in innovation has been honed through more than 15 years of ocean-centric thematic investing. To select our themes, sub-themes, and companies, we have studied the history of innovation, which results from a series of recurring properties, patterns, and habits that sustain or encourage innovation. We then look to identify dynamic companies that are actively engaged in innovation across those subthemes and prioritise those that we believe will be able to cultivate innovation and drive its adoption.

    ocean innovation
    © shutterstock/Vladimka production

    We focus on larger, more established companies that are good at improving what they have been good at doing. For them, innovation can be sustaining: it keeps a company healthy and ahead of its competition. In addition, we will watch for disruptive innovation, which is often led by new firms with radical new methods, products, or ideas. However, disruptive firms will play a lesser role in the portfolio because we believe their path to continuing innovation is much less predictable – until it is not, at which point we will be ready for them.

    As we look for sustaining or disruptive innovation, we also screen for companies capable of embedding equity in those innovations. Only with embedded equity can the innovation-focused portfolio truly achieve the multi-pronged benefits we seek.

    Innovation themes and sub-themes

    The Ocean Foundation and our partners developed the following list of four possible driving themes and then defined sub-themes looking at trends linked to the need for solutions, evolution, or changes that we believe are already inspiring, enabling, and accelerating innovation.

    1. Ocean conservation presents significant investment opportunities due to unprecedented ecosystem threats. Technological solutions like advanced satellite monitoring, artificial intelligence (AI)-powered tracking systems, and blockchain-enabled supply chain transparency can help enforce fishing quotas and reduce illegal maritime activities. Bioengineered filtration systems, precision agricultural technologies, and advanced wastewater treatment methodologies can also help reduce nutrient loading caused by agricultural runoff and urban waste. Technological interventions can monitor and mitigate coastal and offshore development impacts using remote sensing, predictive ecological modelling, and sustainable engineering practices. Entrepreneurs and impact investors are developing solutions like marine habitat reconstruction technologies, renewable offshore energy systems, and real-time monitoring platforms. These innovations offer potential financial returns and are crucial tools for preserving marine biodiversity, supporting global food security, and maintaining the ocean’s role in climate regulation.
    2. Ocean pollution is a growing concern that can be addressed through technological innovation. Sustaining innovations, such as advanced filtration systems and plastic recycling processes, are improving waste management. Disruptive innovations, such as AI-powered ocean-cleaning drones and biodegradable materials, offer transformative potential. These technologies address environmental issues and present significant economic value driven by regulatory pressures and global sustainability commitments. The most promising investment domains include technologies addressing seismic and acoustic pollution, waste disposal solutions integrating circular economy principles, and advanced chemical pollution detection and remediation systems. Venture capital and impact investment funds are interested in scalable solutions that generate financial returns and measurable environmental benefits, making ocean pollution prevention a strategic investment frontier with substantial long-term growth potential.
    3. Climate change is expected to significantly impact ocean economy sectors, including aquaculture, fisheries, tourism, and hospitality. Changes in water quality and weather conditions could lead to reduced operations and employment, shifting communities from extractive industries to conservation and eco-tourism models. Climate policy will trigger new strategies like a more circular economy, and investment opportunities will expand significantly. However, there may be inequity between developing countries with resource constraints and developed countries with research and innovation capacity. Investing in decarbonisation is crucial for combating climate change and moving towards a sustainable future. Supporting clean energy projects, green technologies, energy efficiency, and sustainable practices can reduce environmental impact and position investors at the forefront of a rapidly expanding market. Transportation innovations like electric vessels, autonomous technologies, and smart transportation systems can drive progress in mobility, efficiency, and sustainability, improving human health and mitigating climate change. The transition from traditional offshore oil and gas production to marine renewables is expected to create new opportunities in emerging energy fields, particularly in countries with strong R&D capabilities.
    4. Technology innovation is transforming industries, improving efficiency, and addressing global challenges. Investing in technologies like artificial intelligence, digitisation, automation, and material science can enhance productivity, reduce operational costs, and gain a competitive edge. Automation and robotics can streamline processes, minimise human errors, and unlock new levels of efficiency, leading to increased profitability and sustainable growth. Digitisation is crucial for staying relevant in the digital age, enabling businesses to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and access valuable data insights. Material science innovations create stronger materials and improve energy efficiency and sustainability. AI offers unprecedented opportunities to revolutionise industries and unlock valuable insights from vast datasets.

    Emerging innovative blue economy sectors

    All ocean economy sectors should be part of the blue economy, and the need for sustainable use will drive their redevelopment. Innovative emerging sectors have significant potential as they are at the forefront of new industries. They will likely see increased profits, social and environmental improvement, and potentially outsized shareholder returns. Novel designs and more human-centric operational procedures will drive a need for new suppliers.

    Widespread ocean literacy underpins the blue economy. Understanding ocean systems forms the basis for innovation and developing new sectors. Success requires understanding the role of international governance structures, communications, and marketing strategies and how communities can be engaged in adopting emerging technologies. Improved marine management and governance designs are crucial for regulating emerging innovations and new goods and services, preventing market complications and unintended harm to the ocean and coastal communities.

    Key ocean economy sectors include:

    • Aquaculture and fisheries: The conservation of wild fish stocks and increased reliance on aquaculture production necessitate the development of new technologies and manufacturing innovations.
    • Marine renewable energy: Marine renewable energy, including offshore wind and ocean energy projects, is an emerging and rapidly growing sector due to investment flows and the demand for new technologies and manufacturing innovations. It requires new solutions.
    • Marine transport and ports: Onshore facilities have already invested in ‘clean port’ technologies to reduce air pollution and improve efficiency. Emerging industries such as marine renewable energy, aquaculture, biotechnology, and geoengineering climate solutions are transforming marine transport and ports, requiring new specialised infrastructure, logistics, and services. Ports must adapt to offshore wind project support by developing new turbine assembly and maintenance facilities. Aquaculture and deep-sea mining require advanced logistics solutions, specialised vessels, and enhanced port capabilities to handle new cargo types. These changes will foster innovation in port operations, vessel management, and supply chain optimisation while pushing for sustainable, efficient, and tech-driven port systems.
    • Marine research: Marine research and innovation are crucial for the maritime economy, driving advancements in ocean technologies such as biotechnology, deep sea exploration, and satellite-assisted monitoring systems. These technologies and sustainability initiatives are driving growth and adapting to global challenges. Bioprospecting, an emerging sector, presents real opportunities in marine biotechnology, while artificial intelligence can aid in research and time management investments.
    • Marine and ship construction: Innovation in the design, manufacturing, and construction of coastal and port infrastructure, renewable energy equipment, and shipbuilding is critical to improving resilience and adaptation and to transitioning, supporting, and establishing innovative enterprises in this sector.
    • National defence: National security influences scientific and technological innovation amid international tensions, creating an economic framework that influences innovation. Even beyond naval defence needs, the sector has high innovation levels and a crucial role in ocean domain awareness and maritime security. As automation advances, it may increase employment in technology firms that support naval needs, from navigation to operations to meteorological forecasting. Reducing human-run military vessels will likely be slow as the existing fleet production lines represent significant embedded investment and, thus, will likely occur at the pace of decommissioning.

    Ocean-centric innovation: A multidisciplinary approach

    Ocean-centric innovation investing is a strategy that combines technological advancement, environmental concerns, and societal transformation to create a more sustainable blue economy. This approach focuses on companies that drive sustainable innovation in technology, healthcare, wellbeing, demographic shifts, and decarbonisation. Emerging sectors such as aquaculture, marine renewable energy, marine research, and marine construction offer promising opportunities for innovation and positive environmental and social outcomes. Focusing on regenerative opportunities ensures portfolio companies minimise harm while actively contributing to ocean ecosystem regeneration and building shareholder value.

    Successful investing in the ocean economy requires a deep understanding of innovation patterns and ocean-specific dynamics. By focusing on established companies with sustained innovation capabilities and staying alert to disruptive newcomers, investors can build resilient portfolios that capitalise on the ocean economy’s growth while contributing to its sustainable development.

    ocean innovation
    © shutterstock/Tony Moran

    Integrating equity considerations into innovation assessment ensures that investments generate financial returns and contribute to inclusive economic growth. This approach acknowledges that sustainable ocean innovation must benefit all stakeholders while preserving and enhancing marine resources for future generations. Ocean-centric innovation investing offers a pathway to participate in and shape the future of our blue economy.

    About the author

    Mark J Spalding (J.D., M.P.I.A.), President of The Ocean Foundation, is a Senior Fellow at the Center for the Blue Economy, a member of the UNEP Guidance Working Group for its Sustainable Blue Economy Finance Initiative, and an advisor to various ocean-centric investment funds. He is an international ocean policy, law, philanthropy, finance, and investment expert.

    Please note, this article will also appear in the 20th edition of our quarterly publication.

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