21 Abr Andaltec participates in a European Project to develop nanocarbon materials
Andaltec will participate in the European Project MULTICOMP (Multi-Functional Nano-Carbon Composite Materials Network). MultiComp is a COST Action (funded by the COST association and H2020 framework programme) designed to bring together theorists, experimentalists and industrialists in the field of nano-carbon materials technology. Although carbon nanotubes, graphene and Few-Layer Graphene (FLG) have been used to improve the properties of composite materials, two main problems remain to be solved before these composite materials can realize their full potential: (1) adequate dispersion of the nano-carbon reinforcement material, and (2) strong enough interfacial bonding between the nano-carbon reinforcement elements and the composite matrix. In addition to making modified MWNTs such as branched-MWNTs, the Action will explore other possibilities of strengthening composites by integrating FLG (using existing as well as unpublished methods); theoretical modelling of these nano-carbons and composites; due consideration and evaluation of the Health, Safety and Environmental implications; making and testing composites e.g. mechanical and electrical/thermal, HRTEM of interphases, voltage-contrast SEM of percolation networks, sensing and photocatalytic properties; development of new composite materials with Electronic and Multi-Functional properties. This Action will provide an ideal platform, especially via STSM exchanges, for permanent established researchers, post-doctoral workers and ECIs to enhance their research-related skills as well as their innovation and enterprise skills in this international network involving both academic and business enterprises.
Andaltec is member of the Management Committee (MC) of the Action thanks to the nomination of one of its researchers by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and competitiveness. Together with IMDEA they are the Spanish MC members of the Action. Gabriel Morales, the International Project Manager of Andaltec was nominated as the Vice-Leader of the Work Group 4: Engineering and Technological Applications. This Work group will develop new nano-carbon composites: These will be developed with tailored material properties leading to improved thermal conductivity for thermal management (e.g. for heat dissipation for computer chips), improved electrical conductivity (e.g. for the use as electromagnetic-interference shielding and electrostatic dissipation), improved mechanical properties (e.g. for applications as wear protection), and improved linear and non-linear optical properties (e.g. for optical communication networks) and strong exciton dissociation at the bulk heterojunctions (organic solar cells), as well as new promising materials for large area flexible multifunctional sensors that could be integrated into the material and can be used for multiple location sensing. An example of practical motivation is for instance to consider the use of smart sensors in-situ ability to detect symptoms of potentially catastrophic events of vehicles in real time (such as over-heating of aircraft Li-Ion battery systems).
Taking part is this initiative is a step forward the internationalisation process of Andaltec, which participates in several international projects such PMjoin (plastic-metal joining technologies) and Susfoflex (sustainable packaging with active and smart functions), CPV4ALL (green energy). Finally, Andaltec has an International Project Office which is working to strengthen the international capacities of Andaltec and promoting the internationalisation of national companies.