University of the West of Scotland (UWS) spinout AlbaSense has announced its plans to disrupt the £2.5 billion global thin film and sensor industry.

AlbaSense, based within UWS’s Institute of Thin Films, Sensors and Imaging (ITFSI) will develop low-cost, high-performance thin film optical coatings and photonic sensors, using exclusive patented processes.

Thin films are a layer of material ranging from fractions of a nanometre to several micrometres, and form a key component in a wide range of applications, including autonomous photonic-based gas sensors, medical devices such as breath analysers, non-contact thermometers and advanced imaging systems.

AlbaSense will license core IP, including three patents, from UWS on a worldwide exclusive basis.

Professor Des Gibson, AlbaSense founder and a pioneer in thin film deposition and photonic sensor technology, commented: “AlbaSense is the result of world-class research and expertise, combined with previous industry experience, which has led to the identification of fundamental market needs for lower cost, thin film and sensor technology.

“We aim to provide imaging and sensor solutions in a range of areas where miniaturised high-volume, low-cost measurement is required, such as medical diagnostics, agritech, environmental monitoring and monitoring of industrial processes.

“I am delighted that AlbaSense will design, develop and manufacture from within UWS’s Institute of Thin Films, Sensors and Imaging, allowing the company to retain the wide range of skills and academic expertise on offer at the University, while bringing strong industry links and economic benefits to UWS, contributing directly to Scotland’s thriving innovation economy.”

Through ITFSI, AlbaSense is already working with Glenrothes-based Semefab Ltd – a leading manufacturer of microelectronics and micro electro-mechanical systems (MEMS).

Allan James, Founder and CEO of Semefab, said: “I am pleased to be working with AlbaSense, who will provide unique optical coating technology for our infrared detector products, as well as precision photonic sensor technology.

“We have been fortunate to work with AlbaSense and the wider team within the Institute of Thin Films – benefiting from a wide range of skills and experience. I very much look forward to continuing to work with the team over the coming months.”

Recommended

• DIGIT Deal Roundup | July 2022
• How are anti-piracy campaigns missing the mark?
• Top UK universities failing to implement strong email security

AlbaSense will benefit from two phases of funding from Scottish Enterprise’s High Growth Spin-Out Programme, worth a total of £528,000 over three years. Additionally, two CENSIS projects, three Innovate UK projects and an EU-funded Horizon 2020 project, worth a total of £3 million have been secured to develop end-use applications of the patented technology.

Johnny Mone, Head of Business Innovation at UWS, added: “AlbaSense is a fantastic example of the pioneering research and innovation taking place at UWS and highlights the University’s commitment to supporting enterprise.”

A recent report showcasing the UK’s world-leading research capability, highlighted that Scotland is leading the way in university spinouts.

Get the latest news from DIGIT direct to your inbox

Our newsletter covers the latest technology and IT news from Scotland and beyond, as well as in-depth features and exclusive interviews with leading figures and rising stars.

To subscribe, click here.