Objective
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and fluorinated polymers (fluoropolymers) are widely used as refrigerants, foaming agents, insulating materials, and coatings. The negative impact of HFCs and fluoropolymers in the environment is under increasing scrutiny. HFCs are potent contributors to global warming, while it has been suggested that fluoropolymers can breakdown into small chain poly(fluorinated) alkyl substances (PFAS), known to be damaging to health. Current methods for disposal of F-gases and fluoropolymers are both highly energy-intensive and costly. Arguably a better approach would involve the chemical recycling of these molecules and materials. This would not only prevent their release into the environment it would also provide an alternative means to source fluorine atoms that does not rely on mining finite mineral resources (e.g. CaF2, fluorspar).
Underpinned by ERC StG and CoG projects and more than 10 years of experience in the field, my lab recently developed a breakthrough technology that allows simple, cost-effective method for recycling HFCs and fluoropolymers. In this project, we will translate and commercialise this technology allowing the fluorine content of both HFCs and fluoropolymers to be reused to generate commercially relevant fluorochemicals this activity marks an important step toward a new circular economy for fluorine.
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2024-POC
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
SW7 2AZ London
United Kingdom
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.