THE world’s first facility to develop the mass production of quantum dots will open soon in Runcorn.

Nanoco Technologies will shortly move into a £1.3m facility created by specialists at The Heath Business and Technical Park.

The Manchester company designs and manufactures quantum dots plus other nanomaterials for blue-chip commercial partners in applications including lighting and solar power.

Nanoco is a global leader in the development and manufacture of commercial quantities of quantum dots, solar inks and other nanomaterials.

These are used in multiple applications including Šlighting, solar cells and biological imaging.Š

The company’s quantum dots, which are free of heavy metals, can be combined into many materials like liquids, polymers and glass.

The Heath has designated 3,000 sq ft of floor space for Nanoco, which will initially employ seven staff, but plans to expand at the site within a year.

These include purpose-built fume cupboards, gas and air-handling facilities, specialist mechanical and electrical services, and security system.

Bringing Nanoco Technologies to Runcorn is an achievement for SOG, which owns and manages The Heath.

The former ICI HQ offices now specialises in designing and building laboratory space to meet the specific requirements of its residents.

Charles Davies, SOG project manager, oversaw Nanoco’s facilities.

“We’re delighted Nanoco is coming to The Heath,” he said.

“My remit is to provide technical space and services for science companies like Nanoco.

“We have the scientific know-how of being able to interact, based on the knowledge base built up by ICI.

“This remains through the management and staffing which still underpins the whole service here.

“It allows for the technical space and design so companies like Nanoco can function successfully and expand.

“We provide the infrastructure to handle specialist gases and provide for mechanical and electrical design.

“New properties are not built to this standard as they are too costly.”

The Heath offers corporate-style facilities for small independent firms.

“It also gives them chance to cross-fertilise with other companies on site,” said Mr Davies.

“We have a desirability to be flexible and don’t lock people into five year leasing agreements.”

Andrew Gooda, Nanoco manufacturing director, said: “We are developing the world’s first facility for the mass production of quantum dots at The Heath.

“It is an ideal location and has a heritage of high-tech activities.

“We have been extremely impressed by the high level of technical expertise and support we have received here.

“We look forward to a long and successful relationship with them.”