The Materials Knowledge Transfer Network (KTN) aids the integration of the materials community into other areas of UK expertise, and helps generate value from UK knowledge. It is free to join the KTN, which can be done via its website - www.materialsktn.net.

Reasons to engage

Materials KTN members have access to the latest developments in materials technology. The KTN can guide them to the best UK scientific and manufacturing facilities to research and apply new materials developments, and find funding. Members can debate, online, the future of materials technology in a secure forum with like-minded people. The KTN has sectors covering composites, smart materials, metals and alloys, polymers, materials and design, particulate engineering, and technical textiles – the KTN provides opportunities for technology transfer and the exchange of knowledge.

 

Access to information

The Materials KTN website provides access to the latest technological knowledge and international discoveries on materials. The KTN has dedicated portals for each class of material e.g. metals, composites, plastics, ceramics, minerals, technical textiles and smart materials. There are portals for cross-cutting technologies used to process materials such as surface engineering, powder processing and structural integrity and others for applications including construction, packaging, energy and transport.

 

Funding

The Materials KTN and its network groups advise businesses and academics on routes to funding, assist with applications for financial support and help set up consortia for R&D projects.

 

Networking

Regular events, conferences and online meeting tools provide an opportunity to meet new customers or partners and to find alternative routes to develop and commercialise technology. The KTN works with training agencies to develop appropriate courses in materials, including processing and application. It helps to broker vocational or other training for people in sectors associated with UK materials.

 

Leading the Materials KTN

The Materials KTN is managed on behalf of the Technology Strategy Board by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining. The KTN director is Dr Robert Quarshie.