GE endorses electron-emitter technology

Fairfield, Conn.-based General Electric (NYSE:GE) said today it has invested $4 million from its GE Energy Financial Services arm into electron emitter technology developer Wilmington. Mass.-based Advanced Electron Beams (AEB).

The technology pushes a high-speed stream of negatively charged particles, which can initiate chemical reactions or break chemical bounds. The AEB technology is designed as a substitute for standard manufacturing processes that typically use heat or chemicals for the same objectives.

By using the AEB technology, GE said it has saved energy and resources in its manufacturing processes (see Cleantech manufacturing projects in U.K. get £20M).

GE researchers said the AEB technology could benefit dozens of its other facilities engaged in various types of manufacturing. GE said it has identified nine potential applications for the AEB technology that span several business units. Those applications include polymer treatment for advanced-material applications, such as photovoltaic manufacturing; filtration technology; curing of inks and coatings; and sterilization for food, beverage and medical packaging.

GE said it has been using AEB's technology for two years in its research labs.

GE said it has made several venture investments in promising startups. Over the past two years, the company has put $150 million in a dozen or so companies, including battery maker A123 (see GE invests $24M in electric car technology). Those investments are in line with the company’s Ecomagination strategy, GE said.