Europe-Latin America network for promoting nanoceramics research
High strength, high-temperature resistance, chemical inertness and corrosion resistance are important properties for products that must withstand high temperatures. Unlike metal, plastic and other materials, ceramic materials possess these properties, providing added value to products. With further development of nanoceramic materials, the use of advanced ceramics can be expanded. The EU-funded project EULA-NETCERMAT (EULA network in ceramic materials with environmental and industrial applications) was initiated to enhance fundamental research in nanoceramics, addressing some key challenges that impose a barrier to successful commercialisation of ceramic materials. Researchers’ focus was on achieving much better control of the size and shape of ceramic materials, and enhancing the ability to characterise nanoceramics and nanodevices with high resolution and sensitivity. Another important goal was to increase understanding of the relationship between the nanomaterial structure and its properties. To achieve its objectives, the project worked to strengthen scientific collaborations and research partnerships between research institutions in Europe and Latin America in this field. It also fostered collaboration between researchers through staff exchanges and workshops and training courses, while also seeking to build synergies with the industry. In addition, project partners elaborated strategic plans mainly for the ceramic industries in Argentina, Brazil and Chile for future bilateral cooperation in the ceramics field in Horizon 2020. EULA-NETCERMAT’s activities promise to advance the development of high-quality competence in research on advanced ceramics, with significant influence on the socioeconomic development of partnering Latin American countries. The project also established an international cooperation dimension with outstanding industry partners from Latin America.
Keywords
Europe, Latin America, nanoceramics, advanced ceramics, ceramic materials, EULA-NETCERMAT
