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Cornelius Specialties Ltd

Cornelius is an independent manufacturer and distributor of raw materials, ingredients and specialty chemicals for the life sciences and performance chemicals sectors. Cornelius is strong in the first generation hydrogel contact lens business. Organosilicon compounds are organic compounds that incorporate one or more silicon atoms that provide improved properties and reactivity. Silicon makes contact lenses easier to wear and aids gas permeability.

Cornelius needed the OU’s High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), synthetic expertise to help it develop new, faster, more effective methods for developing complex, second-generation products.

Our KTP has generated new energy and direction for the company. It has enlivened existing staff, taught them new things and knowledge of new methodologies embedded. We are building on the start we have made to make us a truly renowned name in silicones; not just a source, an innovator for next generation engineered silicones.

John Bilney
Managing Director

Achievements

  • This KTP enabled us to expand our manufacturing capacity. A new scale up facility has made the transition from the laboratory into the plant a more controlled process
  • Over the last three years Cornelius has expanded creating more jobs in research and development, in quality control and in manufacturing; growing the local economy
  • The organosilicon chemistry knowledge base of the company has increased as has its analytical capabilities

KTP Associate Dr Elizabeth Smith developed a wide network of contacts in the silicone industry and gained collateral from interaction with customers and the wider supply chain. Lizzie took on a new role with Cornelius after the KTP.

Want to find out more about Open University KTPs? Then email the Enterprise team.