Material success

Funding will help a new technology reach the market

A remarkable new type of non-woven fabric, Hydrospace, has been invented by a spin-out company which originated at the University of Leeds. The fabric has been backed by a £165k grant from Yorkshire Forward.

Controlled storage & delivery from liquids, gels or solid particles

Hydrospace, developed by Leeds-based Nonwovens Innovation & Research Institute (NIRI), provides a controlled storage and delivery mechanism for numerous active ingredients held within liquids, gels or solid particles. It is simple to manufacture, and is relevant to many markets and applications.

The vast potential commercial uses for Hydrospace include use as a wipe (for household, medical, cosmetic, baby, industrial and domestic use); a filter (for anything from blood to air, gas, fuels and other chemicals); protective clothing, shields and blinds; and acoustic and thermal insulation.

A grant will help the technology to fulfil its potential

“The grant from Yorkshire Forward is a major boost,” said Chris Fowler, managing director of NIRI. “It will help ensure that this technology fulfils its potential. Of particular interest is the potential for Hydrospace to improve filters that remove harmful pathogens and toxins from blood.”

Other products developed within NIRI include self-cleaning infection-control surfaces and slash-resistant roller blinds.