R&D in Materials-Based Industries and How R&D Tax Solutions Helps

Jul 21

4 min read

Research and development (R&D) in materials science is driving innovation across Ireland’s most strategic sectors—ranging from aerospace and automotive to medical devices, construction, and semiconductors. As materials become smarter, lighter, and more sustainable, the cost and complexity of development also increase.

Fortunately, Ireland’s 30% R&D Tax Credit provides a significant incentive for companies to continue investing in innovation. In this post, we’ll explore key industry sectors, highlight examples of innovative Irish companies, and explain how R&D Tax Solutions can help businesses claim their full entitlement.

Why Materials-Based R&D Matters

Materials R&D often involves:

Developing or improving polymers, composites, coatings, and adhesives
Enhancing performance under extreme conditions (e.g., temperature, pressure, radiation)
Meeting sustainability and compliance goals (e.g., REACH regulations)
Iterative testing, simulation, and lifecycle modelling
Using advanced manufacturing methods like additive manufacturing or thermal processing

Sector Highlights

With so many industry-leading technology companies finding their way to Ireland, we're spoilt for choice when it comes to finding stand-out examples of businesses that are extending both knowledge and capabilities across the board. Below are a few sector-specific examples that really excite the team at RDTS.

Aerospace and Defence – Collins Aerospace (Shannon)

Collins Aerospace is advancing Europe’s unmanned aviation capabilities through major EU-funded R&D programs such as the Digital Sky Demonstrator. From its Shannon operations, the company is developing cutting-edge drone integration technologies and supporting the wider U-space air traffic ecosystem. Central to this work is the application of advanced composite materials and actuation systems, which are subject to rigorous lifecycle testing. These components must meet demanding requirements for weight, strength, and fatigue resistance—especially in critical aerospace applications where safety and precision are paramount.

Automotive and EV Battery Systems – Xerotech (Galway)

Xerotech is at the forefront of battery innovation for heavy-duty and industrial electric vehicles. Their flagship R&D project, the “Hibernium” battery platform, incorporates a patented liquid-cooling system called Xerotherm, enabling precise thermal regulation under high load and variable environmental conditions. R&D at Xerotech includes experimentation with fire-retardant materials, modular pack architectures, and scalable production techniques. Notably, their collaboration with the European Space Agency focuses on developing non-flammable lithium-ion battery chemistries—pushing safety boundaries in high-risk use environments such as aerospace and defence.

Medical Devices and Biotech – Boston Scientific (Galway)

Boston Scientific’s Galway facility is a global innovation hub for minimally invasive medical devices. One major focus of their materials-based R&D is the development of NyBax™, a co-extruded blend of nylon and Pebax® engineered for high-pressure vascular balloon catheters. Their research also explores biodegradable polymer stents through the SYNERGY™ platform, which requires precise control over material degradation rates, mechanical strength, and biocompatibility. These devices undergo extensive modelling, prototyping, and testing to ensure they meet clinical performance and regulatory standards.

Chemicals, Polymers & Coatings – Henkel (Dublin)

Henkel’s R&D team in Dublin is driving innovation in high-performance adhesives, smart coatings, and printable materials. Their research focuses on developing adhesives that are both 3D-printable and sustainable—an intersection of functionality and environmental responsibility. Henkel scientists are experimenting with bio-based polymers, recyclable formulations, and specialty coatings that enhance surface bonding in sectors ranging from aerospace to electronics. Materials are evaluated under real-world conditions including thermal cycling, moisture exposure, and stress testing to ensure long-term performance and durability.

Construction and Green Building – Ecocem (Dublin)

Ecocem is pioneering low-carbon construction materials with its Advanced Cement Technology (ACT), a next-generation cement blend that slashes CO₂ emissions by up to 70% compared to traditional Portland cement. Their R&D programme combines alternative clinker materials, additives, and chemical admixtures to maintain structural performance while dramatically improving environmental impact. Current efforts include full-scale testing and deployment across commercial construction projects, as well as alignment with EU regulatory targets. The result is a viable and scalable alternative to legacy cement formulations for the global construction sector.

Electronics and Semiconductors – Analog Devices (Limerick)

Analog Devices’ Limerick campus is home to a world-leading research centre focused on materials and systems for high-frequency, high-efficiency electronics. Their R&D teams are exploring advanced semiconductor packaging that incorporates high-thermal-conductivity substrates and reduced parasitic interference—essential for 5G, industrial automation, and power electronics. Materials development includes compound semiconductors, interposer technologies, and dielectric layer optimisation. Each innovation undergoes extensive simulation, microfabrication, and accelerated life testing to meet the requirements of next-gen electronic platforms.

How R&D Tax Solutions Supports Materials-Based Innovation

R&D Tax Solutions helps businesses across all sectors secure valuable tax relief on qualifying R&D activities. Our service is end-to-end, covering:

Technical eligibility assessments
Scoping experiments and iterations
Capturing costs (payroll, materials, capital equipment, subcontractors)
Preparing and submitting Revenue-compliant claims
Providing four years of audit and enquiry support with every claim we prepare

Why work with us?

Our fee is only payable when Revenue has processed your claim
Our thorough, audit-ready reports bring peace of mind that every claim submitted is a valid one
Our clients typically receive above €70,000 per claim
To date, we've never had a claim rejected, or reduced on audit.

The R&D Tax Credit Process

Working with RDTS couldn't be more straightforward, with our claim process honed with over 30 years of tax experience.

Free Consultation – we identify your qualifying activities
Scoping – our team works with your in-house specialists to define eligible activities, costs and R&D timelines
Technical Reporting – we complete robust technical and financial reports for your approval
Submission – we assist submission of your claim alongside your CT1 in collaboration with your existing accountant
Receive your Benefit - on average Revenue pays out claims we have submitted in fewer than 30 days
Support – In the event Revenue requires additional information, we are ready to manage the audit process and close it on your behalf.

Final Thoughts

Materials R&D is pushing boundaries in every sector of the Irish economy—from drones and electric batteries to surgical implants and low-carbon building materials. If your business is developing new or improved materials, you may be eligible for significant R&D tax relief.

R&D Tax Solutions can help you claim what you’re entitled to—with no upfront cost, complete technical support, and a proven track record.