Particle-N, a technology startup affiliated with the University of Connecticut in USA, is on a mission to change the $19 billion global precious-metal catalyst market while simultaneously bolstering Connecticut’s clean energy industry. Founded by Al Kasani, a serial entrepreneur and UConn Ph.D. candidate in chemical engineering, Particle-N is pioneering a groundbreaking technology with the potential to reduce demand for precious metals.
The primary application of precious metals like gold and platinum has traditionally been in jewellery and other luxury items. However, Particle-N is aiming to expand their use by focusing on their critical role in catalysis. A substantial portion of the world’s precious metals are converted into catalyst materials for essential industries such as oil and gas, hydrogen production and automobile catalytic converters.
The innovative approach leverages core-shell technology to coat an affordable, environment-friendly substrate with precious metals, achieving the same catalytic reactions as traditional methods. This technique has the potential to reduce consumption of precious metals by up to 70 percent.
However, the most substantial savings could be realised in the green hydrogen generation sector, where costs can range from $400,000 to $870,000. Particle-N is optimistic about the potential to cut 30 percent from these expenses, making green hydrogen more accessible.
Particle-N’s commitment to addressing critical environmental and economic challenges make it a company to watch closely as it works towards changing the precious-metal catalyst market.
