An R&D company sought evidence for the mechanical performance of a polymer used in an innovative product. IXC analysed the specific requirements of the test and identified an abrasive testing technology in an unexpected sector.
Mechanical Abrasion Testing of Polymers
Abstract:
A company in the UK R&D top 100 sought evidence for the mechanical performance of a polymer used in an innovative product. IXC analysed the specific requirements of the test and identified an abrasive testing technology in an unexpected sector.
Focus; Intention analysis and management
The client, ranked in the top 100 of the 2009 UK R&D database, was progressing the development of a new product and sought evidence for the degradation rates of a polymer used in the product. However, the client did not know what form the testing would take and who could provide a validated test. Working with an IXC Intermediary the intention was clarified and the appropriate mechanical abrasion test was envisaged.
Find; Scanning and technology intelligence, combinatorial knowledge processing
IXC identified an appropriate technology through interrogation of its external networks and the multi-disciplinary expertise of the IXC Intermediary team. The testing technology is owned by a contract research organisation with a focus on consumer products a long way removed from both polymer science and the client’s own industry.
Filter; Scoping and filtering, knowledge processing, technology assessment
The technology was rigorously audited by IXC Intermediaries, analysing the specific parameters of the testing apparatus, its relevance to the client's envisaged timescale and validity under the expected conditions. The technology identified was able to simulate thirty days of test conditions in six hours.
Facilitate; Matchmaking and brokering
IXC facilitated a meeting under NDA between the two parties that led to the client commissioning a trial from the research organisation. The polymer was found to degrade as intended over the simulated timeframe and the client is taking a highly innovative product forward in the development process.
Summary
• IXC has the ability to understand the client's technical needs and identify the type of technology capable of satisfying those needs.
• IXC can dedicate time and resources to search external networks for technologies beyond the client's sector and to validate the technologies.
• Technologies found in unrelated sectors can drive innovative products towards the market.
