NamedSuperNode, the company has invented energy transmission cables that can transfer immense power across long distances.
As the system requires less space and voltage thanconventional copper-based cables, the environmental impact is reduced.
These benefits derive from superconductivity.
This phenomenon happens when certain materials are cooled below their critical temperature typically -180C for high-temperature superconductors.
As a result, superconductors can offer ahefty power density and zero electrical losses.
To harness this potential, SuperNode needs unique scientific resources which is where CERN comes in.
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Vacuum is also used at CERN as a thermal insulator for our superconducting magnets.
CERNwill also design and develop a novel test rig to validate scale prototypes.
Eventually, the rig will be installed at SuperNodes Dublin headquarters dubbed the European Cryogenic Centre for Superconductors.
The tie-up with CERN caps a busy month for SuperNode.
The newfundingfolloweda previous 14m cash injection made last year.
John Fitzgerald, CEO of SuperNode, believes adding CERN to the mix will provide a further boost.
We believe that by working together, we can find innovative solutions to improve the worlds energy infrastructure.
The collaboration also comes at a historical moment for CERN.
The lab has just taken its first steps towards building a 91 km-long particle accelerator.
The plans were revealed amid growing competition for Europes leading position in the field.
The most notable rival is China, which alsointends to build the worlds largest particle accelerator.
CERNs Malika Meddahitold AFPlast week that China displays the same ambition as Europe.
Some concerns have also been raised over the enormous cost of the new collider.
Critics worry that the investment in fundamental science would be better spent in applied sciences.
But the collaboration with SuperNode is further evidence that CERNs work can lead to practical applications.
Story byThomas Macaulay
Thomas is the managing editor of TNW.
He leads our coverage of European tech and oversees our talented team of writers.
Away from work, he e(show all)Thomas is the managing editor of TNW.
He leads our coverage of European tech and oversees our talented team of writers.
Away from work, he enjoys playing chess (badly) and the guitar (even worse).
