Memento

Project: Memento

MEMENTO targets fast-growing, high-value market segments—such as 5G/6G base stations, edge computing, optical transceivers, and aerospace electronics—by enabling UK production of high cooling power density TECs (>63 W/cm²).

With global supply chains under pressure and a shift toward local sourcing, the project represents a significant opportunity to grow UK exports (£3.2M/year) and reduce thermoelectric imports (£1.2M/year).

ETL aims to increase turnover through sales of premium TECs, while IML anticipates commercial returns from bespoke materials supply, licensing, and specialist process services.

Partners

  • European Thermodynamics Ltd (ETL) – Project lead and Europe’s leading thermoelectric module manufacturer. ETL brings expertise in device design, MEMS-compatible assembly, and commercialisation.
  • Integrated Microfab Ltd (IML) – Specialist in thermoelectric materials and net-shape fabrication, leading development of the Bi₂Te₃ leg processing and interface engineering.

Deliverables and Outcomes
The MEMENTO project will deliver a focused set of technical, commercial, and strategic outcomes to validate and de-risk a novel UK-led manufacturing approach for high cooling power density thermoelectric modules.

Audience

MEMENTO is designed for industry leaders and innovators in advanced electronics, telecoms, and defence sectors—particularly those seeking compact, high-performance thermal management solutions. It is aimed at OEMs, system integrators, R&D teams, and procurement professionals who demand precision-engineered, UK-manufactured thermoelectric modules for applications where space, efficiency, and reliability are critical.

Key Deliverables

  • Proof-of-Concept Prototype: A demonstrator thermoelectric module built using the novel MEMS-based quartz filling process with sub-micron features.
  • Technical Validation Data: Detailed performance metrics including cooling power density, yield rates, uniformity, and repeatability—demonstrating scalability and commercial viability.
  • Process Documentation: Comprehensive documentation outlining fabrication parameters, quality control procedures, and scaling considerations.
  • Intellectual Property Portfolio: Up to two UK patent applications protecting innovations in microfabrication, materials integration, and module assembly.
  • Market Intelligence: Competitor analysis, market segmentation, and identification of early adopters in telecoms, space, and high-performance compu

Goals

  • To de-risk and validate a breakthrough manufacturing process for sub-micron scale thermoelectric devices
  • To create a scalable UK-based alternative to thermoelectric device production, reducing reliance on overseas supply chains
  • To deliver industry-ready proof that supports further investment, collaboration, and product development
  • To build commercial traction through stakeholder engagement and IP protection

More R&D projects