August 16, 2007

Murtha announces that Separation Design Group receives $418,244 competitive grant
Source: Congressman John P. Murtha

(Washington D.C.)- Congressman John P. Murtha announced today that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has awarded Separation Design Group (SDGroup), in Waynesburg, a competing grant of $418,244 for lung diseases research.

This funding is year one of a two-year Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program through the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that will allow SDGroup to continue development of a portable oxygen concentrator for those suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Current devices lack the necessary portability and have a short battery life. SDGroup hopes to create a device that is lightweight, portable, and can last 5-7 hours on a single battery charge.

“This funding will allow SDGroup to complete development of a radically new portable oxygen concentrator that will improve the quality of life for millions suffering from breathing disorders,” commented Doug Galbraith, SDGroup CEO.

SDGroup is working with Waynesburg College on the research into micro-scale separations technology, and this same basic technology will also find application in the areas of fuel cells, improved combustion, and water treatment.

“This collaboration between SDGroup and Waynesburg College is helping to bring key competitive federal research dollars back to Greene County,” said Murtha. “These types of projects benefit the local economy and are directly relevant to the healthcare needs in our area.”

Separation Design Group, LLC, a southwest Pennsylvania-based research and development firm founded in 2003, is focused on improving the energy efficiency of commercial and industrial processes.