PROMETHEAN PARTICLES LTD

Their core work

Promethean Particles is a Nottingham-based SME specializing in the scalable production of nanoparticles and Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs) using continuous hydrothermal synthesis. They supply advanced nanomaterials to partners across diverse application domains — from CO2 capture adsorbents and 3D-printed fuel cell components to gas-sensing packaging for cultural heritage conservation. Their core value lies in bridging the gap between laboratory nanomaterial synthesis and industrial-scale manufacturing, enabling other organizations to integrate functional nanoparticles into real products.

What they specialise in

How they've shifted over time

Their early H2020 work (2015-2016) focused on fundamental nanomaterial characterization — understanding how nanoparticles behave in the environment (NanoFASE) and applying them in energy devices like solid oxide fuel cells (Cell3Ditor). By 2018, they shifted decisively toward Metal Organic Frameworks as their signature material, applying MOFs to both industrial CO2 capture and cultural heritage preservation. This evolution shows a company that moved from general nanoparticle supply toward a specialized position as a go-to MOF manufacturer for application-driven consortia.

Promethean is consolidating around Metal Organic Frameworks as their flagship product line, with growing application diversity from carbon capture to smart packaging — expect them to seek projects where MOFs solve material challenges at scale.

How they like to work

Promethean always participates as a specialist material supplier rather than leading consortia, which is typical for a manufacturing SME contributing a specific capability to larger research efforts. With 82 unique partners across 20 countries from just 4 projects, they operate in large, diverse consortia and appear comfortable working with new partners each time. This makes them an accessible and experienced consortium partner — they know how to deliver materials on schedule within complex multi-partner projects.

Despite only four projects, Promethean has built a remarkably wide network of 82 partners across 20 countries, reflecting the large consortia typical of RIA and IA projects. Their network spans most of Europe with no single geographic concentration, making them well-connected for a UK-based SME.

What sets them apart

Promethean occupies a rare niche: they are one of very few SMEs that can produce Metal Organic Frameworks and other advanced nanoparticles at industrial scale using continuous flow synthesis. Most MOF producers are either university labs (small batches) or large chemical companies (limited customization) — Promethean sits in between, offering tailored nanomaterials with genuine scalability. For any consortium that needs functional nanoparticles produced reliably and in quantity, they are a strong UK-based partner with a proven H2020 track record.

Highlights from their portfolio

• NEMOSINE
  Their largest funded project (EUR 469K), applying MOFs to the unusual domain of cultural heritage preservation — demonstrating the versatility of their materials beyond typical industrial applications.
• CARMOF
  Directly addresses CO2 capture using MOF/carbon nanotube hybrids with multiple production techniques (3D printing, membrane technology), showcasing their materials in a high-impact climate application.
• Cell3Ditor
  Early entry into 3D-printed solid oxide fuel cells under the FCH2 programme, connecting their nanoparticle expertise to the hydrogen and clean energy sector.