Commission approves 59 SMT projects
The European Commission has approved 59 projects for funding under the specific RTD programme in the field of Standards, Measurements and Testing (SMT). The 59 projects were selected from a total of 151 proposals submitted in response to two calls published on 15 June 1996. The first was for "measures for quality European products", whereas the second was a targeted call for support for Community policies and European standardization in 19 specific areas. Total Community funding of ECU 33 million will go to the 59 projects selected. Examples of projects to be funded include: - European network of forensic science laboratories to work on harmonization and increasing reliability of genetic fingerprinting; - Improved checks for the strength of mechanical parts in areas such as rail or air transport and nuclear power; - Testing the effectiveness of sun creams; - Development of standards for anti-theft alarms; - Development of testing methods for new materials for transporting dangerous substances; - Measurement of electromagnetic radiation emitted by portable telephones.