As part of Breakthrough Victoria’s University Innovation Program (UIP), Breakthrough Victoria and Swinburne University of Technology are each investing $500,000 in EntroMat, a Melbourne-based company that creates advanced metal powders called high entropy materials (HEMs).
The investment is part of Breakthrough Victoria’s $100m University Innovation Platform aiming to increase the commercialisation of critical research with real-world benefits from Victorian universities.
Swinburne University, Deakin University, La Trobe University, University of Melbourne and Monash University and have each contributed $9m, RMIT has contributed $7.5m, and Australian Catholic University $7m in funding, matched by Breakthrough Victoria, to create new partnership agreements to drive the commercialisation of their research.
HEMs represent a breakthrough in materials science, engineered by combining multiple principal elements. This unique alloying strategy leads to exceptional properties not achievable in conventional alloys.
HEMs are purpose-designed to exhibit superior mechanical strength, thermal stability, corrosion and wear resistance, and longevity under extreme industrial environments. These attributes make them ideal for advanced manufacturing where performance, efficiency, and sustainability are critical.
EntroMat’s proprietary HEM powders are tailored for advanced manufacturing methods such as additive manufacturing, surface coatings, and powder metallurgy, and target high-impact sectors including but not limited to: Mining – Enhancing the wear resistance and service life of heavy-duty components, Energy-–Thermally stable, corrosion-resistant, and high-performance alloys for hydrogen systems, fuel cells, batteries, and thermal power applications, Medical Technology – Developing biocompatible, high-strength alloys for durable implants and surgical devices, Aerospace – Providing lightweight, high-temperature-resistant materials for demanding aerospace and space components.
Traditional materials often fall short in high-performance environments—degrading quickly, losing strength at elevated temperatures, or corroding under harsh conditions.
In contrast, HEMs are designed to thrive in these environments, unlocking new possibilities for manufacturing innovation and sustainability. By integrating advanced computational alloy design, recycled critical elements, and scalable production routes, EntroMat is redefining what is possible in engineered materials—supporting Australia’s sovereign capability in high-value manufacturing.
Breakthrough Victoria recently announced the milestone of more than $1.06bn in co-investment from seed and later stages.
Breakthrough Victoria CEO Rod Bristow said: “EntroMat’s technology represents a game-changer for industries that demand stronger, more resilient, and sustainable materials. Our investment through the Breakthrough Victoria University Innovation Platform (BVUIP) reflects our commitment to turning cutting-edge research into real-world solutions that drive innovation and economic growth. We’re excited to support EntroMat on their journey to revolutionize advanced manufacturing.”
Swinburne University’s Werner van der Merwe, vice president, innovation and enterprise, said: “This investment partnership is showcasing how world-class research and commercial expertise combine to create value. With vital early-stage funding for deep tech startups like EntroMat, we are co-creating the industries of the future, today.”
Greg Lindsay, CEO of EntroMat, added: “EntroMat is built on sovereign technology developed at Swinburne over the past decade. It will create advanced materials that will outperform conventional products, creating new markets and new possibilities. EntroMat is grateful to Breakthrough Victoria and Swinburne University for supporting the growth of the business.
“Already, EntroMat’s products have secured interest from D&T Hydraulics, a remanufacturing service provider for the mining sector based in the Mackay & Bowen Basin in Queensland. The company has signed a Letter of Intent for EntroMat to develop, test and provide a prototype a cutting-edge HEM product for the remanufacture of hydraulic cylinder rods by D&T.”
Jim Cornall is editor of Deeptech Digest and publisher at Ayr Coastal Media. He is an award-winning writer, editor, photographer, broadcaster, designer and author. Contact Jim here.
