Particle-N, a technology startup affiliated with the University of Connecticut
(UConn), is on a mission to revolutionize the INR19 billion global precious-
metal catalyst market while simultaneously bolstering Connecticut’s clean
energy industry. Particle-N is pioneering a groundbreaking technology with the
potential to significantly reduce the demand for precious metals as catalysts,
consequently driving down costs across various industries.
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 is converted into catalyst
materials for essential industries such as oil and gas, hydrogen production, and
automobile catalytic converters.
Particle-N’s innovative approach leverages core-shell technology to coat an
affordable, environmentally friendly substrate with precious metals, achieving
the same catalytic reactions as traditional methods. This technique has the
remarkable potential to reduce the consumption of precious metals by up to 70
percent.
However, the most substantial savings could be realized in the green hydrogen
generation sector, where costs can range from USD 400,000 to USD 870,000.
Particle-N is optimistic about the potential to cut 30 percent from these
expenses, making green hydrogen more affordable and accessible.
