Promethean Particles Ltd

Promethean Particles was founded in 2007 as a spin-out from the University of Nottingham, commercialising research led by Professor Edward Lester in the university’s chemical engineering department. The company started at BioCity Nottingham, moved to larger premises at Nottingham Science Park in 2012, and relocated again in 2016 to its current site at Genesis Park, Nottingham.

The company manufactures metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and other specialty nanomaterials using a patented continuous hydrothermal synthesis process, and operates what it describes as the world’s largest continuous multi-material nanoparticle manufacturing plant, with a reactor capable of around 1,000 tonnes a year. Its MOFs are aimed at industrial decarbonisation uses including post-combustion carbon capture, biogas upgrading, atmospheric water harvesting and gas storage and separation, and in late 2025 the company completed its largest MOF export order to date, at four tonnes.