The technology was developed by Physics Professor Manus Hayne. ULTRARAM is a novel type of memory that combines the non-volatility of a data storage memory, like flash, with the speed, energy-efficiency and endurance of a working memory, like DRAM.
It is able to do this by exploiting quantum resonant tunnelling in compound semiconductors, materials commonly used in photonic devices such as LEDS, laser diodes and infrared detectors, but not in digital electronics, which has been the preserve of silicon.
Initially patented in the US, further patents on the technology are currently being progressed in key technology markets around the world.
ULTRARAM is to be commercialised following the successful completion of the ICURe Explore award as part of the Innovate UK ICURe Programme designed to help researchers explore the commercial application and potential of UK research.
Commenting Jess Wenmouth, Commercialisation Impact Manager at the University said, “The process is a strenuous validation programme of both the scientific development, the market discovery and evidence gathering of need as well as an endorsement of the team’s skills and strengths to take this forward.”
Following this endorsement by the ICURe expert innovation panel, the proposal will develop to become a formal spinout company from Lancaster University, with discussions having already taken place with a number of potential investors.
The award has also opened the door for the spinout to bid for £300k of Innovate UK funding, exclusively available to successful ICURe ‘graduates’.
