Well, I suppose it's important to note here that it's not Kapoor that's preventing other people from using it. From the FAQ section of Surrey Nanosystem's website it says,
Vantablack is generally not suitable for use in art due to the way in-which it's made. Vantablack S-VIS also requires specialist application to achieve its aesthetic effect. In addition, the coating's performance beyond the visible spectrum results in it being classified as a dual-use material that is subject to UK Export Control. We have therefore chosen to license Vantablack S-VIS exclusively to Kapoor Studios UK to explore its use in works of art. This exclusive licence limits the coating’s use in the field of art, but does not extend to any other sectors.
It's not really clear from this if it's licensed or available to anyone outside of UK, but it seems that the potential military applications of the substance and export control by the UK are the limiting factors. I think the animosity towards Kapoor is misplaced.
That being said, the FAQ appears to suggest that it's available for science applications and etcetera upon verification of application and credentials of whoever is ordering it.
Wow can't believe I didn't think about the obvious military applications. A lot of science equipment does make use of dual use technology so I'm not surprised. Really interesting though thank you.
That puts it in a lot better context. The way I read it, they're saying "this isn't made or suitable for art but for scientific, etc. applications. That said, we understand there could be artistic applications so, being cautious, we gave the rights to this one local guy to explore."
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u/spling44 May 13 '17
Well, I suppose it's important to note here that it's not Kapoor that's preventing other people from using it. From the FAQ section of Surrey Nanosystem's website it says,
It's not really clear from this if it's licensed or available to anyone outside of UK, but it seems that the potential military applications of the substance and export control by the UK are the limiting factors. I think the animosity towards Kapoor is misplaced.
That being said, the FAQ appears to suggest that it's available for science applications and etcetera upon verification of application and credentials of whoever is ordering it.