The links that bind Dublin’s PlasmaBound raise 2.35 million euros

Separation of University College Dublin PlasmaBound raised 2.35m euros in a recent round of funding. The startup’s patented Controlled Polymer Ablation (CPA) technology acts as a bonding agent between ultra-lightweight, fiber-reinforced materials. The new capital is expected to fuel the company’s expansion efforts. To date, PlasmaBound has raised a total of 3.5 million euros.

With global industries moving forward with their carbon reduction goals, efficiency is at the forefront of almost every materials designer. In the world of cars, for example, lighter materials are converted into a smaller mass that has to run on a battery-powered engine and thus a wider range.

But when we start removing traditional metal components, elements that are sewn together through the welding process, with fiber-reinforced parts like the Bcomp natural fiber / plastic sandwich, what keeps everything in place?

This is the main issue that PlasmaBound solves with its controlled polymer ablation solution. Applicable in the aerospace, transportation, marine, renewable and consumer electronics sectors, the company said the process allows for high-speed bonding of composite materials without consumables and waste, while maintaining 100% fiber integrity and structural efficiency.

“Our technology is for faster use of more renewable, lightweight materials as we seek a more sustainable, low-carbon future. We are excited to continue our fast-paced journey to allow these materials to be standard on vehicles, structures and devices, ”said PlasmaBound CEO Alan Barry. “Currently, this is limited by cost and complexity to high-tech applications or first-class price points with limited real environmental impact. Bringing recyclable composites into mass production will move the dial of all our efforts for a sustainable tomorrow. ”

The € 2.35 million PlasmaBound funding round was led by Venture Capital Actfeaturing Atlantic Bridge University Foundation, Enterprise Irelandand a number of undisclosed angel investors.

“The level of real-world plasma control achieved with CPA will allow industries to use composites everywhere, cost-effectively and creatively – this will allow for a big step forward in the use of composite materials. “Something I think the sector is waiting for,” concluded Act Venture Capital John O’Sullivan.