UKAEA spinout, MuWave, has secured funding from the UK Innovation and Science Seed Fund (UKI2S) to develop and deliver high-power microwave technology
MuWave, a recent spinout from the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), has secured £450,000 from the UK Innovation and Science Seed Fund (UKI2S) to offer commercial high-power microwave technology enabled by expertise within UKAEA.
The funding combined with a spinout agreement with UKAEA will accelerate MuWave’s growth plans, develop the next generation of microwave sources, called gyrotrons, and support global exports.
Microwave technology uses electromagnetic waves to heat fusion plasma to temperatures many times hotter than the sun. It also supports applications in satellite communications, radar, geothermal drilling and medical imaging.
MuWave was founded in 2023 by a team of UKAEA engineers with expertise in microwave and industrial applications.
The spinout aligns with UKAEA’s strategy to translate fusion research into commercial opportunities, driving long-term economic and industrial gain from national R&D investments.
Steven Craig, Co-founder at MuWave, said:
Helen Webster, Co-founder at MuWave, said:
STEP Fusion, the UK’s prototype fusion power plant, is expected to rely on high-powered microwave technology for its heating system.
Research and development related to STEP Fusion resulted in several ideas for improving high-power microwave systems. These ideas were taken by UKAEA through patent protection and proof-of-concept prototype build, which ultimately led to the technology developments now being commercialised by MuWave.
Heather Lewtas, Chief Development Officer at UKAEA, said:
Mark White, Investment Lead for the Fusion Portfolio at UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund (UKI2S), managed by Future Planet Capital, said:
MuWave also provides consultancy services to a range of fusion and non-fusion organisations.
An interview with the founders of MuWave is available to watch on YouTube: How fusion is powering UK prosperity – Episode 1: MuWave