Lux Research Releases Top 10 Innovative Companies Profiled in Q1 2013
Promising new emerging technologies for improving water quality, finding oil & gas leaks, and making in vitro meat and leather highlight Lux Research’s Q1 2013 list
BOSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Leading emerging technology research firm Lux Research profiled 380 companies across 16 different emerging technology domains in the first quarter of 2013 as part of its ongoing intelligence services. Drawing on the deep domain expertise of its analysts, Lux Research uses primary research to provide detailed information and critical analysis of firms developing emerging technologies that are poised to impact global megatrends like sustainable energy and infrastructure, sustainable health and wellness, and materials revolutions.
Each quarter the Lux Research team of analysts identifies the 10 most compelling companies profiled across all its coverage areas. Each firm gets a “Lux Take” that ranges from “Strong Caution” to “Strong Positive,” to provide a bottom-line assessment of its prospect, with a “Wait and See” rating for companies that still face too much uncertainty for a definitive call. The top 10 from Q1 2013 are:
1. Alvim – Positive – Water
This early-stage company provides sensors that warn industrial and municipal operators when critical biocide processes are out of control. With little direct competition, it should see rapid adoption by industries that have previously counted on indirect measures of safety.
2. EnerG2 – Positive – Mobile Energy
One of the few nanostructured electrode material startups making progress towards mass-production, EnerG2 has opened a new facility, raised significant funding, and is expanding application areas.
3. Carbolosic – Wait and see – Alternative Fuels, Bio-based Materials and Chemicals
In a field, cellulosic biofuels, that’s littered by expensive failures, early-stage Carbolosic is developing a mechanocatalytic conversion of biomass to sugars without enzymes or acid.
4. Synodon – Positive – Exploration and Production
With a sensor technology that can quantify and trace the source of leaks in difficult terrains, Synodon performs aerial detection of hydrocarbon leaks from refineries and pipelines, and has amassed an impressive customer list including Suncor, EnCana, ConocoPhillips, and Enbridge.
5. Novaled – Positive – Printed, Flexible, and Organic Electronics
Through its exclusive agreement with Samsung Display, Novaled supplies more than 95% of the OLED display market through 2017 and is looking to raise $200 million for its IPO.
6. Zep Solar – Positive – Solar Systems
In an incumbent-heavy market, Zep’s differentiated model of partnering with module manufacturers for frame design (and racking installation) has gained significant market share lately, and is currently deployed by some of the top installers in the U.S.
7. The NanoSteel Company – Positive – Advanced Materials
A combination of high strength and high elongation puts NanoSteel’s advanced steel alloy performance top-of-class, and its GM partnership is a positive indicator of commercialization mettle in the automotive industry.
8. Modern Meadow – Wait and See – Formulation and Delivery
As a front runner in the field of consumer cell-based materials, Modern Meadow constructs engineered leather with tunable characteristics such as suppleness, color, grain, anti-odor, and anti-microbial properties. Next on its agenda: 3D-printed engineered meat.
9. Enlighted – Positive – Efficient Building Systems
In the crowded space of smart lighting systems for existing buildings, Enlighted combines a unique algorithm and integrated sensor – with occupancy, temperature, and luminosity readings – to independently manage light levels, generating 50% to 70% energy savings.
10. Intermolecular – Positive – Solar Components
A high productivity combinatorial platform for accelerated R&D has placed Intermolecular in the top 10 IP generators for semiconductor manufacturing. It’s actively involved with the world’s leading thin-film PV module manufacturer, First Solar, for technology development.
About Lux Research
Lux Research provides strategic advice and ongoing intelligence for emerging technologies. Leaders in business, finance and government rely on us to help them make informed strategic decisions. Through our unique research approach focused on primary research and our extensive global network, we deliver insight, connections and competitive advantage to our clients. Visit www.luxresearchinc.com for more information.