RESEARCH & INNOVATION

Research & Innovation

Advancing solid-state microwave and vacuum processing through collaborative research, process development and the exploration of new applications.

COLLABORATIVE INNOVATION

Driving New Applications Through Collaboration

Mildtech works with universities, research organisations and industrial partners to explore new applications for solid-state microwave processing. Collaborative projects allow us to investigate materials, develop processing methods, validate technical approaches and create routes toward pilot and commercial deployment.

RESEARCH FOCUS AREAS

Exploring New Applications for Microwave Processing

Our research spans both established and emerging applications, from low-temperature processing of sensitive natural materials to advanced heating, sustainable materials and new industrial uses of solid-state microwave technology.

Food & Natural Ingredients

Developing controlled drying and thermal-processing methods for food, plants, botanicals and other natural ingredients.

Biological Materials

Exploring low-temperature and vacuum-assisted processing for algae, microorganisms, proteins and other sensitive biological materials.

Sustainable Materials

Investigating biomass, plant fibres, agricultural materials and alternative materials for lower-impact processing applications.

Advanced Thermal Processing

Exploring higher-temperature microwave heating and thermal processing with and without vacuum for new applications.

Industrial Materials

Developing microwave-processing approaches for specialist materials, construction-related applications and other industrial processes.

Medical & Healthcare Research

Exploring how solid-state microwave technology could be applied to emerging medical and healthcare applications through controlled energy delivery, heating and thermal processing research.

RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

From Concept to Validation

Mildtech supports research projects from early feasibility work through process development, technical validation and preparation for larger-scale deployment.

Feasibility

Assess whether the material and application are suitable for microwave processing.

Process Development

Develop and refine processing conditions around the material and project objectives.

Validation

Evaluate repeatability, product response and technical performance under defined conditions.

Scale-Up Preparation

Translate successful results into the next stage of pilot, commercial or collaborative development.

Research & Innovation Collaborations

Powering breakthrough technology and industrial progress through dedicated academic, governmental, and commercial partnerships.

INNOVATION IN PRACTICE

Recently Completed R&D Projects

Mildtech has recently completed Innovate UK-funded research projects exploring new applications for solid-state microwave and vacuum processing, from natural ingredients and food processing to UK seaweed and macroalgae.

INNOVATE UK • COMPLETED PROJECT

Better Food for All

In collaboration with Harper Adams University

An 18-month industrial research project focused on developing and scaling low-temperature solid-state microwave and vacuum dehydration for natural ingredients, with particular emphasis on preserving product quality while moving toward larger-scale processing.

INNOVATE UK • COMPLETED FEASIBILITY PROJECT

Seaweed Processing Feasibility

Low-temperature processing of UK seaweed species

A feasibility study investigating the application of Mildtech’s solid-state microwave and vacuum drying technology to UK seaweed and macroalgae, assessing drying performance, energy use and retention of key product characteristics.

WHY COLLABORATE WITH MILDTECH?

Why Work With Mildtech on R&D?

Mildtech combines specialist microwave engineering expertise with practical process-development experience, providing a flexible partner for collaborative research, feasibility studies and new application development.

Specialist Microwave Expertise

Deep technical experience in solid-state microwave systems, vacuum processing and the development of new microwave applications.

Flexible Development Approach

Projects can begin with early feasibility work and progress through process development, validation and larger-scale trials.

Controlled Processing

Precise control of microwave power, frequency, temperature, vacuum and processing time enables conditions to be tailored to each application.

Collaborative R&D

We work with universities, research organisations and industry partners to combine complementary expertise and develop new processing solutions.

DISCUSS A RESEARCH PROJECT

Collaborate With Mildtech

Tell us about your research project, material or application, and we can discuss how Mildtech’s solid-state microwave and vacuum technology can support your R&D objectives.