Logo
Company Profile

SPECTRO INLETS APS

SPECTRO INLETS APS Secures EIC Accelerator Funding for UBISpec Project to Advance In-Line Mass Spectrometry in Industrial Applications

DenmarkEIC Accelerator2021

Table of Contents

  1. The EIC Accelerator Project
  2. The Funding Rounds
  3. The Press Releases
  4. The Technology Advancements
  5. The Partnerships and Customers
  6. The Hiring and Company Growth
  7. The Media Features and Publications

1 The EIC Accelerator Project

EIC Accelerator Program Overview

The EIC Accelerator is a flagship funding initiative of the European Innovation Council (EIC) aimed at supporting innovative startups and SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises) in Europe. It focuses on deep-tech and breakthrough innovations that have high potential for commercial success and societal impact. The program offers a blend of grant funding and equity investment to enable companies to develop and scale their innovations.

Funding Structure

1. Grant Funding: Companies can receive grants of up to €2.5 million. This funding is intended to support the development and demonstration of innovative products, services, or processes that are at the prototype or pre-commercialization stage. The grant covers various costs, including R&D, prototyping, testing, and market entry strategies.
2. Equity Investment: The EIC Accelerator also provides equity investment, which was up to €15 million until 2024 and is reduced to €10 million from 2025 onwards. This equity funding is intended for companies that are ready to scale their operations and need substantial financial backing to accelerate growth and market penetration. The EIC takes a minority stake in the company, allowing entrepreneurs to retain control while securing necessary capital.

Purpose in the European DeepTech and Startup Ecosystem

The EIC Accelerator plays a critical role in fostering innovation within the European ecosystem. It aims to:

  • Support DeepTech Innovations: By specifically targeting deep-tech sectors, the program encourages the development of technologies that address complex challenges, such as climate change, health, and security.
  • Bridge Funding Gaps: Startups often struggle to secure funding at early stages. The EIC Accelerator provides a crucial financial bridge to help them progress from concept to commercialization.
  • Enhance Competitiveness: By investing in high-potential startups, the program helps bolster the competitiveness of the European economy, driving job creation and technological leadership.

Role in Scaling Companies and Securing Private Sector Funding

The EIC Accelerator not only provides funding but also offers:

  • Mentorship and Coaching: Recipients benefit from tailored business coaching and access to a network of experts and investors, which helps them refine their business models and strategies.
  • Visibility and Credibility: Winning EIC Accelerator funding enhances a company’s visibility in the market, making it more attractive to private investors. The rigorous selection process serves as a validation of the business idea and technology.
  • Facilitating Partnerships: The program connects startups with potential partners, including large corporations and research institutions, fostering collaborations that can accelerate growth.

Summary of EIC Accelerator Winner: SPECTRO INLETS APS and Project UBISpec

Company Overview: SPECTRO INLETS APS

SPECTRO INLETS APS is a Danish company focused on advanced analytical solutions for industrial processes. Their innovations leverage mass spectrometry technology to provide real-time insights into chemical compositions, facilitating better monitoring and optimization of industrial processes.

Project: UBISpec

Project Acronym: UBISpec
Description: Ubiquitous in-line mass spectroscopy for industrial process monitoring and optimization with sustainable impacts.

Funding Type: Grant only
Website: spectroinlets.com
Country: Denmark
Submission Date: June 16, 2021

Project Details and Technology Background

UBISpec Overview

The UBISpec project aims to develop an innovative in-line mass spectrometry solution that can be integrated seamlessly into industrial processes. This technology is designed to provide continuous, real-time monitoring of chemical reactions and compositions, enabling immediate adjustments to optimize process efficiency and sustainability.

Technology Basics

1. Mass Spectrometry: This analytical technique measures the mass-to-charge ratio of ions. It is widely used in chemical analysis for identifying substances within a sample. The ability to perform in-line mass spectrometry represents a significant advancement over traditional batch sampling methods, allowing for timely data collection and analysis.
2. In-Line Integration: The UBISpec system is designed to be integrated directly into industrial processes, allowing for continuous monitoring without interrupting production. This capability is crucial for industries that require precise control over chemical compositions, such as pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and food production.
3. Sustainability Impact: By enabling real-time monitoring and optimization, UBISpec can lead to reduced waste, improved resource efficiency, and lower energy consumption. These benefits align with global sustainability goals, making the technology particularly relevant in today's environmentally conscious market.
4. Market Potential: The demand for efficient and sustainable industrial processes is growing. UBISpec positions SPECTRO INLETS APS to capitalize on this trend, offering solutions that can help companies reduce costs and meet regulatory requirements while improving product quality.

The UBISpec project exemplifies how innovative technologies can transform traditional industries and contribute to a more sustainable future. With the support of the EIC Accelerator, SPECTRO INLETS APS is poised to make significant strides in the field of in-line mass spectrometry and industrial process optimization.

2 The Funding Rounds

Spectro Inlets ApS, a Danish company specializing in real-time measurement solutions for environmental and chemical processes, received EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021. Since then, the company has secured additional funding through a seed round completed on October 31, 2022, raising $3.11 million. (pitchbook.com)

The investors in this seed round include NOON Ventures, the European Innovation Council Fund, Denmark's Export and Investment Fund, Dorte Gro, and Horizon 2020 SME Instrument. (pitchbook.com)

As of the latest available data, Spectro Inlets ApS has raised a total of $3.55 million in funding. (pitchbook.com)

The company's valuation at the time of the seed round is not publicly disclosed. Additionally, there is no publicly available information regarding any subsequent funding rounds or exit events.

In summary, after receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in June 2021, Spectro Inlets ApS raised an additional $3.11 million in a seed round on October 31, 2022, bringing their total funding to $3.55 million. The investors in this round include NOON Ventures, the European Innovation Council Fund, Denmark's Export and Investment Fund, Dorte Gro, and Horizon 2020 SME Instrument. No further funding rounds or exit events have been publicly reported.

3 The Press Releases

Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, Spectro Inlets APS has published several press releases highlighting their technological advancements, partnerships, and team developments. Below is a summary of these press releases:

1. Monolithic Silicon Nanopore Membrane Technology (October 31, 2023): Spectro Inlets introduced a groundbreaking advancement in mass spectrometry with their Monolithic Silicon Nanopore Membrane Technology. This innovation aims to revolutionize the field by enhancing the separation of ionized molecules, a critical component in mass spectrometry. The technology addresses the inherent challenges of operating within a vacuum, offering improved efficiency and performance in analytical processes. (spectroinlets.com)

2. Participation in MNE23 Conference (October 27, 2023): Sanjeev Vishal Kota, a representative from Spectro Inlets, shared insights from their participation at the MNE23 Conference in Berlin. The event provided a platform to engage with industry professionals, discuss advancements in mass spectrometry, and explore collaborative opportunities. The success story of this participation underscores Spectro Inlets' commitment to staying at the forefront of scientific discussions and innovations. (spectroinlets.com)

3. Sales Manager Recruitment (February 5, 2024): Spectro Inlets announced the search for a Sales Manager to drive the adoption of their Power-to-X solutions and cutting-edge battery technology. The ideal candidate would possess a strong sales background and a passion for advancing sustainable energy solutions. This recruitment effort highlights the company's expansion and dedication to bringing innovative technologies to market. (spectroinlets.com)

4. Collaboration with MIT's Professor Yang Shao-Horn (May 8, 2024): Spectro Inlets delivered their EC-MS Premium system to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), specifically to a team led by Professor Yang Shao-Horn. This collaboration signifies the integration of Spectro Inlets' advanced mass spectrometry technology into leading academic research, particularly in the field of electrochemical studies. (spectroinlets.com)

5. Case Study with Imperial College London (May 2, 2024): A case study by the Faraday Institution highlighted Spectro Inlets' collaboration with Imperial College London. The partnership led to an innovative adaptation of Spectro Inlets' electrochemical mass spectrometry technology, demonstrating its versatility and impact in advanced research applications. (spectroinlets.com)

6. Publication in Nature Communications (May 2, 2024): A scientific article titled "Allotrope-dependent activity-stability relationships of molybdenum sulfide hydrogen evolution electrocatalysts" was published in Nature Communications. The research, facilitated by Spectro Inlets' EC-MS technology, delves into the intricate relationships between activity and stability in molybdenum sulfide catalysts, contributing valuable insights to the field of electrochemical energy conversion. (spectroinlets.com)

These press releases collectively showcase Spectro Inlets' technological innovations, strategic partnerships, and contributions to advancing electrochemical research and sustainable energy solutions.

4 The Technology Advancements

Spectro Inlets ApS, established in November 2016 by engineers from the Technical University of Denmark, specializes in microchip inlet systems for mass spectrometers. Their flagship product, the Electrochemical Mass Spectrometry (EC-MS) system, is designed for real-time, accurate measurement solutions to optimize environmental and chemical processes. (spectroinlets.com)

Current Capabilities:

Spectro Inlets offers the EC-MS system, which boasts 100% analyte collection efficiency, enabling precise quantification of reaction products. The system facilitates gas dosing with reactant gases and allows for controlling the gas saturation of the electrolyte, aiding in the study of the effects of different gases on electrodes. Electrolyte saturation is achieved efficiently, eliminating the need for prolonged bubbling of gas in external reservoirs. (environmental-expert.com)

Advancements Since EIC Accelerator Funding:

In June 2021, Spectro Inlets received EIC Accelerator funding for their project "UBISpec," aiming to develop ubiquitous in-line mass spectroscopy for industrial process monitoring and optimization with sustainable impacts. (rasph.com)

Since then, the company has made several advancements:

  • Product Development: In 2023, Spectro Inlets launched the EC-MS Premium, an enhanced version of their analytical instrument tailored for both electrochemistry and battery research. (spectroinlets.com)
  • Scientific Publications: By 2024, 47 scientific publications based on the EC-MS system were published, indicating its growing acceptance and application in the scientific community. (spectroinlets.com)

Market Demonstrations:

Spectro Inlets has demonstrated its technology in the market through collaborations with esteemed institutions:

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): In May 2024, the company delivered the EC-MS Premium system to MIT's team led by Professor Yang Shao-Horn, highlighting the system's relevance in advanced research settings. (spectroinlets.com)
  • Imperial College London: A case study by the Faraday Institution in May 2024 highlighted a collaboration between Spectro Inlets and Imperial College London, leading to an innovative adaptation of the EC-MS system for electrochemical studies. (spectroinlets.com)

Intellectual Property and Publications:

While specific details about new patents or whitepapers filed by Spectro Inlets since June 2021 are not readily available, the company's active participation in scientific research is evident from the numerous publications based on their EC-MS system. This underscores their commitment to advancing the field and contributing to the scientific community. (spectroinlets.com)

In summary, since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in June 2021, Spectro Inlets ApS has enhanced its product offerings, expanded its scientific collaborations, and demonstrated the practical applications of its technology in various research domains.

5 The Partnerships and Customers

Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, Spectro Inlets ApS, a Danish company specializing in electrochemical mass spectrometry (EC-MS) solutions, has expanded its collaborations and customer base.

New Partnerships and Customers:

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): In May 2024, Spectro Inlets delivered its EC-MS Premium system to MIT's team led by Professor Yang Shao-Horn. This collaboration aims to advance research in electrochemical processes, particularly in the field of battery technology. (spectroinlets.com)
  • Faraday Institution: Also in May 2024, a case study by the Faraday Institution highlighted Spectro Inlets' contributions to electrochemical research, showcasing the company's role in advancing battery technology. (spectroinlets.com)

Nature and Purpose of Relationships:

  • MIT Collaboration: The partnership with MIT focuses on providing advanced measurement solutions to enhance the understanding of electrochemical reactions, thereby accelerating the development of more efficient and sustainable battery technologies.
  • Faraday Institution Case Study: The inclusion in the Faraday Institution's case study underscores Spectro Inlets' impact on the scientific community, particularly in the realm of electrochemical research and battery development.

Market Positioning:

These collaborations position Spectro Inlets as a key player in the electrochemical research sector, particularly in battery technology. By partnering with leading institutions like MIT and being featured in prominent research studies, the company enhances its credibility and visibility in the market.

Technology Advancements and Scaling:

The partnership with MIT provides access to cutting-edge research environments, facilitating the refinement and scaling of Spectro Inlets' EC-MS technology. Collaborating with such esteemed institutions also opens avenues for further technological advancements and potential commercialization opportunities.

These developments reflect Spectro Inlets' commitment to advancing electrochemical research and its strategic efforts to expand its influence in the scientific community.

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

Spectro Inlets ApS, a Danish company specializing in in-line mass spectroscopy for industrial process monitoring and optimization, received EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021. (rasph.com)

Current Team Size and Hiring Status:

Specific details about Spectro Inlets ApS's current headcount and whether they are actively hiring are not publicly available.

Growth and Recent Hires:

Information regarding the company's growth metrics and recent key hires is not readily accessible.

Impact of New Team Members:

Without data on recent hires, it's challenging to assess how new team members may influence the company's future growth and scalability.

Management or Founding Team Changes:

There are no publicly available records indicating significant changes in the management or founding team of Spectro Inlets ApS since their EIC Accelerator funding in June 2021.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it would be advisable to contact Spectro Inlets ApS directly or consult their official communications channels.

7 The Media Features and Publications

Since receiving EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, Spectro Inlets APS from Denmark has been actively involved in various conferences, exhibitions, and events. Here is a summary of their activities:

Conferences and Exhibitions:

  • MRS Spring Meeting 2024: Held in Seattle, USA, on March 12, 2024.
  • 245th ECS Meeting: Took place in San Francisco, USA, on May 26, 2024.
  • 37th Topical Meeting of the International Society of Electrochemistry: Conducted in Stresa, Italy, on June 9, 2024.
  • SURFCAT Summer School: Organized in Skælskør, Denmark, on August 11, 2024.
  • 75th Annual ISE Meeting: Held in Montreal, Canada, on August 18, 2024.
  • Faraday Conference: Took place in Newcastle, UK, on September 10, 2024.
  • Electrochemistry 2024: Conducted in Braunschweig, Germany, on September 16, 2024.
  • PRIME 2024: Held in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, on October 6, 2024.
  • MRS Fall Meeting: Took place in Boston, USA, on December 1, 2024.

These events provided platforms for Spectro Inlets APS to showcase their EC-MS (Electrochemistry Mass Spectrometry) technology and engage with industry professionals. (spectroinlets.com)

Product Launches and Publications:

  • EC-MS Premium Introduction: Spectro Inlets APS introduced the EC-MS Premium, a product designed to determine the origin and nature of gas evolution, aiding in the understanding of Solid Electrolyte Interphase formation and degradation of electrodes and electrolytes. This advancement accelerates the development of new and safer batteries with a shorter time to market. (spectroinlets.com)
  • Research Paper on Decarboxylation of Acetic Acid: The company congratulated researchers from the University of Twente on their paper titled "Electrochemical decarboxylation of acetic acid on boron-doped diamond and platinum functionalised electrodes for pyrolysis-oil treatment," published in Faraday Discussions in April 2023. (spectroinlets.com)
  • Application Note on Hydrogen Evolution Reaction: Spectro Inlets APS released an application note showcasing the use of their EC-MS system for analyzing the hydrogen evolution reaction using four commonly tested catalysts: PtPoly, Pd/C NPs, Pt/C NPs, and MoS2. (spectroinlets.com)
  • Hydride Coverage on Cu(111): The company highlighted a study by David Raciti and Thomas P. Moffat from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) titled "Quantification of Hydride Coverage on Cu(111) by Electrochemical Mass Spectrometry," demonstrating the full collection efficiency of the EC-MS system. (spectroinlets.com)

Conference Participation:

  • 40th Annual International Battery Seminar: Spectro Inlets APS participated in this seminar, engaging with industry professionals and learning about the latest developments in battery technology. (spectroinlets.com)
  • Advanced Automotive Battery Conference: The company represented by their global sales manager, Anne Dyrdal, at booth #123, discussing their products and technology with attendees. (spectroinlets.com)

Application Note on Oxygen Evolution Reaction: Spectro Inlets APS released an application note on the oxygen evolution reaction using their EC-MS system, providing tips and tricks for successful experiments and referring to excellent publications that have already used the EC-MS for studying OER. (spectroinlets.com)

These activities highlight Spectro Inlets APS's commitment to advancing electrochemical mass spectrometry and their active engagement in the scientific community.

EIC Accelerator Winner - 2021