Support for material of the future

A £76,834 Grant for Research and Development (GRAND) awarded by the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) could see Saddleworth company Glastex UK Ltd. develop an advanced industrial textile material, able to withstand fire and cut resistance in extreme applications.

Established in 2005, Glastex UK Ltd are associated with companies engaged in the manufacture of personal protective equipment. Their performance yarns and industrial textiles meet the requirements found in some of the high risk environments associated with the protection of personnel.

Steven Broomhead, Chief Executive of the NWDA said:

“The Northwest’s textile industry is one of the region’s pioneering trades. By investing into research and development within this field we are helping to maintain a successful commercial future, provide opportunities for jobs throughout the region, as well as manufacturing a product with potential global appeal.”

If successful, the project will allow Glastex to maintain its position and strong market presence in the Industrial Textiles market, where demanding applications require cut resistant material, abrasion, thermal insulation, fire and welding protection.

Sarah Pate, Technical Director, Glastex comments:

“The current size of the PPE market is estimated by the European Commission at 10 billion Euros and has the potential to grow by about 50% in the coming years. At Glastex, we want to develop our success further with innovative yarns and fabrics for today’s demanding applications and we are confident that if we produce the right material, we will be in a strong position to exploit it, both in the UK and Europe.”
GRAND helps businesses and individuals carry out research and development work that will lead to technologically innovative products and processes that have a commercial market. These grants are aimed at encouraging businesses to carry out R&D projects that they would not necessarily undertake without the grant and assist them in levering in finance from the private sector.
ENDS

Notes to editors:

For further information please contact Shelley, Tattersall, Press Officer on 01925 400256 or mobile 07500 128482 or shelley.tattersall@nwda.co.uk

For further information and to view previous press releases visit us at www.nwda.co.uk

The Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) leads the economic development and regeneration of England's Northwest and is responsible for:

• Supporting business growth and encouraging investment
• Matching skills provision to employer needs
• Creating the conditions for economic growth
• Connecting the region through effective transport and communication infrastructure
• Promoting the region’s outstanding quality of life

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