Aqdot: transformational Chemtech, from fragrance-free air fresheners to delivery of therapeutics for cancer
Winner of the Emerging Technologies Competition 2013
Case study: October 2020
What was their business idea?
The company’s core technology is a high-performing chemtech platform called AqBit, a group of barrel-shaped molecules that are exceptional in their ability to capture, hold and release a variety of molecules and materials.
Where are they now?
As a new chemical entity, the team has worked hard to ensure that AqBit can now be manufactured at scale with robust human and environmental safety data, having achieved Cradle to Cradle™ platinum certification covering all commercial applications from personal care to pharmaceuticals. It has also been REACH- and TSCA-registered in the EU and US respectively for commercial manufacturing and use.
Aqdot’s commercial focus is now on improving air quality in household care, professional cleaning and personal care products, paint and coatings, recycled plastics and air filters.
Since winning the competition, the team have launched a consumer product brand, Oderase, featuring two next-generation fragrance-free air freshening products. One targets bathroom smells, while the other tackles the odours that typically occur in open plan living. These products are now available from Ocado, Oderase.co.uk and Amazon. The business is also working with partners to offer the opportunity to “white label” the solutions for other brands and retailers, or develop a market specific formulation.
Further to this, the team have had a number of commercial engagements with multi-nationals that are continuing to progress.
What are Aqdot’s plans for the future?
Through its collaboration with the University of Cambridge, the team discovered that its AqBit technology inhibits the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which partly contributed to the development of the Covid-19 disease. This is significantly different from the harsh disinfectants typically used on hard surfaces because it is not harmful to human cells. By only targeting virus inhibition, it has the potential to be much safer to use around people in the air and on personal surfaces such as clothing and face masks.
Aqdot has the capability and ambition to grow into a multi-billion pound company with a number of business units focusing on the various application areas in which its technology can be used, while translating these into tangible consumer benefits that are life-changing for millions.
What was their favourite part of taking part in the Emerging Technologies Competition?
“The final pitching event was the highlight of our experience in the competition, we enjoyed delivering our pitch to the expert judging panel, and networked with fellow competition participants and guests.”
What the team say
“The final pitching event was the highlight of our experience in the competition, we enjoyed delivering our pitch to the expert judging panel, and networked with fellow competition participants and guests.”
Jing Zhang, Cofounder and Strategy & Innovation Director, Aqdot
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- Emily Vipond