Spero Energy receives $150,000 in funding from NSF

Spero Energy Inc., announced yesterday it has received a six-month $150,000 SBIR Phase I grant from the National Science Foundation.

The technology is based on Purdue University intellectual property, said Spero.

Basudeb Saha, chief technology officer, said the grant will aid in Spero Energy’s commercialization of its conversion technology.

“We will use the funding to develop process conditions for the lignin-derived products. The quality of these products will be tested for use in fragrances,” he said. “The award also will help us evaluate the stability of our catalysts, optimize critical reaction parameters to accelerate the scaling up of the technology, and develop a commercialization plan by assisting with market research.”

Saha gave credit where it is due, commending the NSF and its mission to furthur advancements in science.

“We’re humbled by the SBIR Phase I grant that we received, as it recognizes the technical and commercial merit of our work, as established through rigorous criteria and review processes from the NSF,” said Saha.