‘Supermaterials’ start-up launches US office

An advanced materials start-up is accelerating its international expansion with the launch of a Silicon Valley office as it prepares to enter new global markets.

Bristol-based HTMS Composites, which develops lightweight materials capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, is targeting further US growth less than a year after raising £1.3 million to commercialise its technology.

Founded by Danilo Di Salvo and Richard Grainger, the business specialises in Inorganic Matrix Composites (IMCs), which offer a lighter alternative to metal and could be used in applications ranging from electric vehicle battery casings to brake shims and exhaust components.

The company is already working with automotive, aerospace and other manufacturers and exporting to Europe and Japan, with exports to the US and Middle East expected to begin in the coming months.

Since completing its funding round in September 2025, HTMS Composites has opened a new headquarters in Leamington Spa and a 6000sq ft laboratory in Malmesbury, while creating five jobs.

It has also completed trials demonstrating how its materials could be used in electric vehicle components and is preparing for a Series A funding round over the coming year.

Traditionally, the cost of manufacturing IMCs has restricted their use to highly specialised applications, including the underside of the Space Shuttle.

However, the founders have developed a way to significantly reduce the energy, time and cost involved in production, helping make the materials viable for wider commercial use.

Danilo and Richard ultimately aim to establish a UK supply chain for high-performance materials, with HTMS Composites expected to create more than 40 jobs over the next three years.

Danilo said: “Engineers designing components for use in hot environments have until now been very restricted. 

“Choosing materials with higher thermal performance increases the weight and the cost. 

“Our materials remove these design constraints – giving them the freedom to create lightweight, affordable products that can also withstand high temperatures.

“Thermal composites are opening up new possibilities across multiple industries. 

“The funding has enabled us to scale up production and start building a supply chain here in the UK. 

“We look forward to growing our business and bringing the benefits of these materials to more industries in the future.”

Shubham Jaipuria, investor at Mercia Ventures, added: “Danilo and Richard have moved quickly, progressing from a kitchen hob experiment to serving a global customer base. 

“Establishing a Silicon Valley office is the next step in building on the team’s efforts to reach customers worldwide, and we’re excited to work alongside the company as it turns those ambitions into reality.”

The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II and the South West Investment Fund – overseen by British Business Bank – provides debt finance from £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment up to £5 million to small and medium-sized businesses.

David Tindall, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, said: “HTMS Composites is a great example of how joint investment from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II and the South West Investment Fund can help ambitious businesses bring innovative technology to market and drive growth. 

“Since our investment, the company has continued to develop its technology, strengthen its team and expand its international reach. 

“We’re pleased to have supported HTMS Composites on its growth journey and look forward to seeing what comes next.”

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