Biochar CleanTech Accelerator

Aston University and local industrial partners have developed an innovative pyrolysis technology able to transform organic material such as sawdust, fallen and diseased trees, dried chicken litter and agricultural straw, into commercially valuable bioproducts biochar, gas and liquids.

The Energy & Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI) and the Centre for the Circular Economy and Advanced Sustainability (CEAS) at Aston University are looking for partners to commercialise biochar and related bioproducts.

West Midlands companies are invited to join us to develop new low carbon products for growing markets such as: 

· Low carbon fuel for boilers and engines.

· Soil conditioners and products for improved plant, tree and animal health.

· Biochar for carbon capture and credits.

· Biochar for water treatment and odour control.

· Biochar for building and composite materials.

· Bioliquids for low carbon weedkiller, fungicide and plant growth enhancer.

The Biochar CleanTech Accelerator led by Aston University can help you boost your:

 · Technology innovations

· Skills and knowledge

· Network and supply chain connections

· Finance sources

· Market opportunities

Empowering local clusters

The project will build on research facilities at Aston University to develop growth potential targeting export contracts worth over £200 million of low carbon products produced by a regional industrial cluster.

Our technology uses sustainable tree residues to reduce emissions by replacing fossil fuels, creating natural carbon sinks and producing low carbon products including building materials, better soils, vinegar-based weed killers and plant growth enhancers. Future developments include advanced filters, 3D printing and nanotechnology products.

The Biochar CleanTech Accelerator will accelerate business growth through commercial application of new technology, developing investment readiness as well as integrating the expertise of a range of engineering disciplines.

How to connect

To find out more about joining the industrial cluster and how you can benefit from the Biochar CleanTech Accelerator email biochar@aston.ac.uk

Aston University has been awarded funding for this Biochar CleanTech Accelerator project to be delivered as part of the West Midlands Innovation Accelerator to bolster the region's innovation and R&D capability and capacity to spark commercial growth and investment.

First announced in the Government's 2022 Levelling Up White Paper, the West Midlands Innovation Accelerator commenced in May 2023, funded through a share of a £100m fund from Innovate UK, to be divided by three regional Innovation Accelerators over the next two years.

Aims of the Innovation Accelerator include accelerating the region's engineering research & development, boosting inward investment, and reinforcing the West Midlands' position at the frontier of the UK innovation revolution by enabling businesses to develop new products, processes and services.

The West Midlands Innovation Board has targeted investment on projects enabling new solutions around Medical and Clean Technologies, following initial expressions of interest in June 2022.