Cleantech manufacturing projects in U.K. get £20M

The U.K. government said today that it's investing £20 million in projects that are developing the use of cleantech in manufacturing.

The 21 projects are getting a total of £19 million from the Technology Strategy Board and a further £1 million from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council. Combined with contributions from the businesses involved, the total value of the research and development projects is in excess of £40 million.

"Given the U.K.'s high-wage economy, future productivity and global competitiveness depend upon our ability to develop high-quality, clever technology and products," said Ian Pearson, minister for science and innovation.

"Major investment in innovative research and development, such as the £20 million announced today, will enable us to maintain and improve the quality of the U.K.'s manufacturing capability in key areas such as aerospace, healthcare, energy and recycling."

The projects include research and development in carbon-neutral construction products, moldable auto parts from sustainable resources, energy efficient and environmentally friendly recycling of composites, and the intelligent management of electrical power systems.

The projects include the U.K.'s NovaCem, which is leading a group to asses the commercial viability of its magnesium oxide-based cement binder. The University of Birmingham is leading another project to develop the machinery to facilitate the clean production of smart and hybrid composites using recycled, waste and aligned short-fibers.

For a full list of the projects click here.