Objective
Current infrastructure elements requiring controlled deformation, such as tunnel support systems and bridge expansion joints, predominantly rely on steel components that face significant durability challenges due to corrosion. This project advances an innovative solution through auxetic cementitious composites (ACC) - a novel class of materials combining 3D-printed thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) auxetic frames with cementitious mortar. Initial laboratory testing has demonstrated remarkable properties, including compressive strains up to 40% and highly recoverable deformation under cyclic loading (up to 10% strain). Building on breakthrough findings from an ERC Starting Grant, this Proof of Concept project will advance the technology from TRL 2-3 to TRL 4 through four key activities: numerical modelling for design optimization, cyclic performance characterization, manufacturing scale-up, and market validation. The project will establish manufacturing protocols for larger-scale elements (decimetre size), validate performance under application-relevant conditions, and develop a comprehensive commercialization strategy. The innovation addresses a clear market need by eliminating corrosion concerns while providing superior mechanical performance. The technology's unique combination of controlled deformation capacity and durability opens possibilities for multiple infrastructure applications beyond initial target markets. The project will engage key stakeholders including infrastructure owners, engineering consultants, and manufacturers to validate requirements and identify pilot opportunities. Successful completion will establish the foundation for scale-up through subsequent funding (EIC Transition), leading to pilot demonstrations and market entry. The technology offers significant potential for reducing infrastructure maintenance costs while improving performance and reliability of critical deformable
elements.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- engineering and technology materials engineering composites
- natural sciences chemical sciences polymer sciences polyurethane
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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-2025-POC
See all projects funded under this callHost institution
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.
2628 CN DELFT
Netherlands
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.