University tests help SME thrive

RESEARCHERS at the University of Leeds are helping a business in the city convince potential customers that a new way of cleaning historic buildings works.

Civil engineers at the University analysed stone samples before and after they were cleaned using ‘Steamacc’, a process used by WGL Stoneclean marketed as an alternative to sand-blasting.

WGL has tripled its workforce and seen sales increased ten times after the research.

The researchers used conventional microscopes and a high-resolution electron microscope to analyse samples removed from buildings and those prepared in the laboratory.

Dr Leon Black, who led the study, said: “This is a great demonstration of how academic expertise can be put to good use to help local a business. Our work with the high-resolution microscope gave WGL Stoneclean the scientific proof they needed to convince clients that Steamacc cleaning was safe to use and has had a positive impact on their order book. We would definitely like to do more of this type of consultancy work. ”

The new method uses diluted acid and super-heated steam to open up the surface of the stonework and force out the grains of dirt.

Bernard Coleman, director of WGL Stoneclean, said: “The figures presented in the report indicate that even if we repeated this cleaning process every five years, it would take 7000 years to ‘wash’ a building away.

“We now believe that the Steamacc process is the least damaging, most cost effective and environmentally friendly method of cleaning stone buildings that is available in the UK market.”

The consultancy work was funded by a voucher scheme run by the Government-funded agency Business Link Yorkshire.