The results obtained in the project, are aligned with the initially stablished objectives, therefore, the main impacts envisaged by HYGIEIA are achievable:
- The technology developed for the biofilm-proof GWRS container will have a significant economic impact in the aircraft OEMs and on the value chain, including SMEs. The three value pillars of HYGIEIA (intelligent design, antimicrobial coatings and robust testing methods) have a notable market demand, inside and outside the aviation industry.
- There is a growing concern on creating clean and safe surfaces justified by the current COVID-19 pandemic but also by the increasing resistance of micro-organisms to traditional products (antibiotics, etc), which is leading to difficult to cure infections. Antibaterial/microbial coatings or additives rapidly penetrating markets such as US, KR, JP or China, where the Public health protection systems are less powerful, and the treatment costs are mainly paid by people’s private resources. Market forecast of antimicrobial coatings up to 2-5 b$/year, with annual growths bigger than the 10% according to different market survey sources.
- Environmental is the major side driver of HYGIEA. 30% weight savings in flight represent a significant fuel saving consumptions when extrapolating the numbers to the vast amount of aircrafts operated annually. The biofilm-proof system proposed by HYGIEIA will lead to water saving during the flight, which is one of the most remarkable aspects of the project regarding the environmental point of view. Since grey water is up to now expelled directly from the aircraft via the drain mast, this water is lost; whereas, if reused, it may make it possible to carry up to 30% less potable water in the main sump; a considerable weight saving.
The exploitation activities will be extended after the project conclusion upon TRL5 maturity attained.
