The patent application, which covers both the unique crosslinked hydrophilic ionic materials and the novel production process, has been identified as two separate  nventions. Consequently, the Company has decided to allow the patent examination process to proceed under the US 'divisional process' which offers the possibility of achieving two independent patents from the one original application. The divisional application covering the novel "in-situ" production process is now under review.

Jim Heathcote, CEO ITM Power, said:

"We are delighted to be granted the US patent covering our new class of ionically conducting materials and we look forward to updating shareholders on the progress with the second patent covering the low cost manufacturing process. When granted, two patents will significantly enhance the Company's portfolio of intellectual property."