Three-dimensional atom probe system offers unique materials characterisation capabilities by allowing both visualisation and analysis of materials at the atomic scale
The huge potential of the nanotechnology business sector was a key factor in the recent successful flotation of Polaron on the London stock market.
Oxford Nanoscience is part of Polaron's nanotechnology division and claims the largest installed base of three-dimensional atom probe (3DAP) systems worldwide.
Oxford Nanoscience's 3DAP system offers unique materials characterisation capabilities by allowing both visualisation and analysis of materials at the atomic scale and has a leading role to play in both nanotech product development and in-process material assessment.
Oxford Nanoscience managing director Richard Davies said: "The nanotechnology division is one of four profitable divisions that make up Polaron.
"Polaron has been in business for more than 40 years and recorded a turnover approaching £12 million in 2003.
"The next few years are going to be very interesting as we expand the nanotechnology division by organic growth of Oxford Nanoscience and the acquisition of other instrument related companies involved in nanotechnology.
"We believe we can make a significant contribution to Polaron.
"The applications for 3DAP are wide-ranging and the target markets are potentially very large, including nanotechnology research facilities, government and university laboratories, semiconductor manufacturers, data storage manufacturers and metals/alloys producers.
"In the longer term we believe that 3DAP will be used as a production control tool and not just in research and development".
The 3DAP system was invented in 1987 by Professors George Smith and Alfred Cerezo at the Department of Materials at the University of Oxford.
Professor Smith is non-exectutive chairman of Polaron and Professor Cerezo has a consultancy role with the company.
Both continue to be actively involved in research using the equipment at the university.
