Nottingham-based HALO X-ray Technologies demonstrated its pioneering X-ray technology to local MP, Lilian Greenwood, during her recent visit to the company. HALO X-ray Technologies showcased how its technology is set to transform global aviation and border security. The MP for Nottingham South was shown how HALO is spearheading revolutionary X-ray diffraction solutions that promise faster, more accurate, and more secure screening for passengers and cargo worldwide.
The visit, organised by the British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (BVCA), showcased how private equity and venture capital investments are helping to fuel innovation, create jobs, and strengthen Nottingham’s position as a hub for cutting-edge technology. HALO X-ray Technologies is one of 22 private capital-backed businesses headquartered in Nottingham South, contributing to the region’s economic growth and global technological leadership.
At the heart of HALO’s innovation is its proprietary X-ray diffraction technology, designed to automatically identify materials in real time. This capability significantly enhances security screening in airports and border crossings by reducing false alarms, expediting passenger flow, and increasing threat detection accuracy. The technology has also attracted interest from the medical sector for advanced diagnostic imaging applications, and has applications for industrial inspection.
HALO systems are currently installed at Copenhagen Airport and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport as part of an initiative to prove operational performance in a live environment and establish the value proposition for X-ray diffraction at the checkpoint and for the wider aviation security community.
HALO is currently working on UK, EU and US government funded programmes that have helped develop core IP and establish new product opportunities. HALO has to date secured ~£16M funding through various government programmes. This engagement with government and regulators has been key to the continued success of the business and technology.
HALO has also been backed by a consortium of UK government-backed funds consisting of the UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund (UKI2S), the Midlands Engine Investment Fund, both managed by Future Planet Capital), and the UK Government’s Future Fund, alongside Agilent Technologies, Inc, a global leader in chemical and life science analysis.
The investment support has enabled the company to accelerate R&D and advance commercial partnerships in the security sectors. By supporting HALO, these investors are championing UK-led innovation in aviation security, border protection, and advanced materials detection, helping to drive economic growth and job creation in Nottingham and beyond.
Following her visit, Lilian Greenwood MP commented: “It was fantastic to meet with the team at HALO X-ray Technologies and see first-hand the groundbreaking work taking place right here in Nottingham. This is a great example of how innovation and private investment are driving high-tech job creation and positioning the UK as a leader in aviation and border security solutions.”
