Fibre-optic coating processes
Aims
To support prototype development for a SME.
Overview
NGPOD Global is dedicated to providing innovative solutions to the patient safety issues related to nasogastric (NG) tube placement (specifically preventing harm caused by the misplacement of NG tubes). This is achieved by development of innovative medical devices that empower health care practitioners to make informed decisions, reduce the delay in therapy getting to patients and reducing costs associated with current testing practice. One of the products in NGPOD's portfolio is a patented and CE marked fibre-optic sensor technology (the NGPOD® device) that facilitates feeding of patients who require enteral feeding or medication via nasogastric feeding tubes (in the acute, out-patient or home care environment) by taking a pH test to the distal end of the NG tube inside the patient (the recommended first line method in the UK, USA & other countries).
Results and Outcomes
Tab Content: For Partners and Engagement
The university-based researchers facilitated product development via identification of solvents for coating fibre optics, replacing a toxic (carcinogenic) solvent with a cheaper/safer alternative solvent.
The outcome enabled the manufacture of the coating to be undertaken safely in an the open production area without the need for a fume-extraction cabinet at a significantly reduced risk to employees. It also facilitated the removal of the original solvent from the premises thus further reducing risk. The formulation has successfully replicated the properties of the original formulation with no change to efficacy and is now used in the scaled-up manufacturing process.
Tab Content: For Academics
The project enabled the academic to understand some of the opportunities for engagement with SMEs. Staff have honed their skills in report writing for non-academic audiences, demonstrated impact from their collaborative research and developed professional networks (particularly in the health care industry) which may unlock opportunities for future research and development activities to benefit the UK’s economy/society.
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