Opportunity to license ORNL-developed method for making inorganic nanoparticles (particularly ferrites) using a highly scalable fermentative system. The IP portfolio contains US Patent 6,444,453 and two patents pending, along with selected bacterial cultures. The process can be modified to produce single-crystal mixed oxide particulates with well-controlled sizes in the range of 10 to 100 nm. In the case of ferrites, the particles are single-domain and demonstrate giant paramagnetism. Many other metal oxide systems have been demonstrated as well. Potential applications include ferrofluids, magnetorheological media, pigments and colorants, catalysts, microwave-absorbent materials, and others. In laboratory-scale tests using a 25-L fermenter, about 500 g of powder was synthesized in each run. Pilot-scale experiments are presently being designed that we estimate will yield 10-20 kg of powder in each run. The process may be conducted at or near room temperature but can also be conducted at elevated temperatures using thermophilic bacteria. The higher temperature process is somewhat faster and more resistant to contamination from microorganisms from the air, because most cannot survive at the process temperature (65oC). Details of related publications and patents are available upon request. The technology transfer process will be facilitated through licensing of UT-Battelle’s intellectual property, and subsequent development undertaken cooperatively between UT-Battelle and the licensee, funded by the licensee. Such development will focus on transitioning the technology from the current pilot-scale demonstration stage to commercialization. Interested companies with experience and expertise commensurate with the requirements of this commercialization effort are invited to respond to this announcement. Companies interested in this opportunity may obtain more detailed technical information and a description of the licensing and cooperative research and development process by submitting a statement of interest, including a written description of their company and its activities and an explanation of their potential application of the technology. No licensing intermediaries please. This is not a procurement activity. EMAILADD:
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