A SPECIALIST high-tech engineering firm producing super-strong coatings for motor-racing has completed a management buy-out.

Harwell-based Zircotec, which produces high-performance coatings used in motorsport and the car industry, is now owned by four members of its management, who bought the business from intellectual properry firm Accentus.

Zircotec’s ceramic thermal barrier technology, which allows high-strength, lightweight materials to be used in high-temperature environments, is one of 19 exhibits chosen to appear in an exhibition at the Science Museum in London.

The buyout, agreed for an undisclosed sum, was led by Zircotec’s managing director Terry Graham, supported by technical director Andy McCabe, sales and marketing manager Peter Whyman and accountant Chris Barette.

The exhibition shows how Zircotec’s and other companies’ motorsport technologies can be transferred from the racetrack and applied to other fields of innovation.

Zircotec’s sales director Peter Whyman said: “Zircotec’s coating is so effective that it allows composites to function in temperatures above their melting point.

“Visitors will learn how our coating can reduce surface temperatures by more than 125ºC on composite materials, and see opportunities for other applications outside of motorsport.”

Mr Graham said: “Zircotec is a thriving business that has experienced strong growth over recent years, and the management team is focused and motivated to continue this success.

“The buy-out brings new financial investment and the potential for further rapid growth, taking the company to the next stage of its development.”

Zircotec has recently rapidly expanded its range of products and ceramic coatings to enter new fields including aerospace.

All of the the ten-strong workforce is transferring to the new company, including motorsport sales manager Stuart Clarke and production manager Alec Samler .

The business is also set to move to new premises later this year.

Mr Graham said: “A budget is already in place to cover this next phase of our expansion.”

Fast Forward: 20 ways F1 is Changing our World is free and open until Spring 2010. The Science Museum is open daily from 10am to 6pm. Science Museum , Exhibition Road , London SW7 2DD. Nearest Tube: South Kensington . Further information: www.sciencemuseum.org.uk /0870 870 4868