UPV adds 17 new patents in health, telecommunications, energy, and sustainable chemistry

The Universitat Politècnica de València continues to expand its technology portfolio with 17 new patent applications filed in the first half of 2026.

The inventions are the result of work by various UPV research institutes and groups and respond to current challenges in fields such as health, security, telecommunications, photonics, energy, and the chemical industry.

Seven of these patents are in the process of being commercialized and transferred to the market through the creation of several UPV spin-offs.

Furthermore, six of these technologies were developed in collaboration with the CSIC, and two were generated with various entities, including CIBER, ISABIAL, the Miguel Hernández University, the Príncipe Felipe Research Center, and the La Fe Health Research Institute.

In 2026, the UPV exceeded the number of patents registered during the first half of the year. Last year, 14 patents were applied for within the first half, reaching a total of 30 patented technologies from the UPV.

Faster diagnostics and new therapies

Four of the new patents are related to health, prevention, and the rapid detection of substances.

One of these inventions proposes a molecular probe to detect sepsis based on the activity of neutrophil elastase, a biomarker related to the immune response. This technology opens the door to fast and simple diagnostic systems.

Two sensors for identifying drugs of abuse have also been protected: a system for detecting GHB in drinks through color and fluorescence changes, and a sensor for identifying mephedrone or GHB in biological samples.

These are joined by a messenger RNA-based therapy to treat chronic liver lesions, designed to act in a targeted manner on specific liver cells.

Photonics, 6G communications, and digital security

Photonics and telecommunications also stand out among the cutting-edge technologies developed at the UPV, accounting for seven of the applications filed during the first half of 2026.

Among them is a method to reduce the power consumption of programmable photonic circuits, which seeks to automatically find the most efficient configuration without having to modify the hardware.

Another of the technologies uses a programmable photonic circuit to perform matrix inversion operations, which are essential in artificial intelligence, signal processing, and simulation.

In the field of wireless communications, the UPV has developed a dynamic control system for reflective surfaces using localized magnetization. This technology could be used to direct radio waves in satellites, drones, and future 6G networks.

An integrated radar and communications system based on OCDM modulation has also been protected, allowing for the transmission of information and the detection of objects or environmental analysis using the same signal.

In terms of cybersecurity, a new invention enables the generation of cryptographic keys from radar interference, reinforcing communications protection from its own physical layer.

This block of patents is completed by a high-sensitivity multilayer photonic sensor, designed to detect substances in very low concentrations, and a system for the transfer and self-alignment of components without adhesives, which facilitates the precise integration of microelectronic and photonic devices.

Energy and more sustainable industrial processes

The other six applications are aimed at improving the efficiency of industrial processes, incorporating renewable raw materials, and developing new solutions for the energy transition.

One of the technologies proposes a ceramic coating for hydrogen detection in industrial environments and at high temperatures. Its integration into fiber optic systems can facilitate the monitoring of demanding energy facilities.

Another invention allows for the manufacture of coated hard carbon from lignocellulosic biomass for use as an anode in sodium batteries, an alternative with the potential to reduce dependence on certain critical raw materials.

In the field of refining, a procedure for co-processing bio-based oils and heavy petroleum fractions has been patented, facilitating the incorporation of renewable raw materials into existing industrial processes.

Another technology enables the production of synthesis gas from the coke generated in catalytic cracking units, utilizing a process waste as a resource for the chemical and energy industries.

The portfolio of new patents also incorporates two solutions to improve the production of linear aldehydes, compounds used in the manufacture of plastics, detergents, perfumes, and other chemical products: a heterogeneous procedure for obtaining linear-chain aldehydes and a new rhodium catalyst for producing linear aldehydes.

From the laboratory to the company

These 17 applications reflect the ability of UPV researchers to convert scientific knowledge into solutions with potential market applications.

Through the Knowledge Transfer Office, UPV Innovation, the University works to bring these technologies closer to interested companies and organizations through licensing agreements, joint development projects, validation tests, or the creation of new technology-based companies.

Interested organizations can access the technology fact sheets through the links included in this news item and consult the rest of the available offer in Explora UPV.

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