March 2005

Calling All Bright Sparks

Faraday Partnership PowdermatriX is helping companies to develop innovative ideas that will improve their industrial performance. PowdermatriX Spark Awards will assist any company concerned with powders or particulates, whether they use advanced materials such as ceramics and powder metals or pharmaceutical and food products.

A SPARK award of up to £5000 supports problem solving, proof-of-concept, technology demonstration and other development activities. The work is carried out on behalf of the company at a solution provider such as a university or a research company. Companies applying for the award must be PowdermatriX members. The application process aims to be both simple and quick. Once awarded the grant is made to the solution provider on completion of the project to the company’s satisfaction.

John Liddle of PowdermatriX explained: “Twelve grants are available and priority will be given to proposals promising rapid results as well as having high leverage for future value for the company. The projects must also have potential to generate significant future programmes and involve or lead to personnel transfers. ”

This call marks the second year for SPARK awards. In 2004, fourteen awards covered a wide range of technical areas including hydrogen storage, prosthetic implants and rapid tooling.

PowdermatriX shares its home with CERAM, the internationally renowned centre for materials and technology, based in Stoke-on-Trent, UK.


PRESS CONTACT: Catherine West-Robinson, Marketing Co-ordinator
Tel: 01782 764344   Fax: 01782 412331   Email: catherine.west-robinson@ceram.com