Abstract of the Offer
Originating from the United Kingdom, Hycomplate Ltd offers a novel composite-based heat exchanger tailored for space applications. The technology delivers lightweight and efficient thermal management for satellites, spacecraft, and cryogenic propulsion systems. Its main advantage is combining reduced weight with superior heat transfer capability. Hycomplate Ltd seeks licensing, joint development, or commercial agreements with space industry partners.
Description
This innovation is a composite-based heat exchanger designed for use in space systems, where weight, performance, and multifunctionality are critical. Traditional metallic exchangers, although effective, are limited by high density, corrosion risks, and limited adaptability.
The enabling concept lies in embedding thermally conductive pathways in an advanced composite matrix, engineered with carbon fibres and fillers that provide tailored thermal conductivity. The design allows for anisotropic heat transfer, enabling directed thermal control for specific mission needs.
The technology performs two functions simultaneously:
- Efficient thermal management in extreme conditions (cryogenic to high heat flux).
- Structural integration, offering strength and load-bearing capacity while serving as a thermal device.
Potential applications include:
- Satellite avionics cooling.
- Spacecraft cryogenic hydrogen/oxygen storage and transfer systems.
- Thermal regulation of high-power electronics and sensors in orbit.
- Lightweight, multifunctional systems for future propulsion and energy platforms.
Beyond space, the technology can be adapted for aviation, renewable energy, hydrogen energy systems, and electronic cooling, bridging terrestrial and space markets.
Advantages and Innovations
- Mass reduction: 40–60% lighter than metallic alternatives, directly lowering launch costs.
- Enhanced thermal conductivity: Engineered carbon composites enable controlled, efficient heat transfer.
- Integrated functionality: Combines mechanical strength with heat exchanger capability, reducing part count.
- Corrosion resistance: No degradation in harsh space environments, unlike aluminium or copper.
- Customisable: Thermal pathways can be tailored to mission-specific requirements (anisotropic or isotropic).
- Scalable and sustainable: Based on advanced thermoplastic composite processing, enabling recyclability and improved end-of-life options.
Compared with aluminium or copper exchangers, this approach achieves superior thermal performance-to-weight ratios, making it highly attractive for next-generation spacecraft platforms.