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NMP-2007-1.1-1 Nano-scale mechanisms of bio/non-bio interactions
Technical content / scope: A better understanding of the interactions between biological entities and nanostructures is of central importance for functionalised materials and systems such as the development of active surfaces with adapted biocompatibility, improved amalgamation in heterogeneous materials, effective industrial processes, etc. The objective will be to explore the interaction mechanisms at the nano-scale between biological systems and nanostructures (including surfaces). The expected projects should foresee upstream interdisciplinary research on nanostructures which induce specific behaviour on contact with biological systems and explore the interaction with and effect on these biological systems. The expected projects should pave the way for future industrial application by enabling the design of structures which interact in a predictable and controllable way with biological systems; thereby improving performance of industrial processes (e.g. biocide surfaces for industrial or clinical use, medical devices, functionalised packaging, technical and medical textiles, bioresponsive materials, etc.). The expected projects should combine experimental and theoretical work such as modelling of the basic processes and functional units, as appropriate.
Funding scheme: Small or medium-scale focused research projects
Specific features: Consortia could include users.
Expected impact: (i) Solutions going well beyond the state of the art; (ii) substantial innovation in industry and perspectives for new products with higher added value in various sectoral applications (e.g. marine industry, construction, energy production, medical and hygiene applications, textiles, etc.); (iii) medium-long term innovation in industrial processes (e.g. food industry or waste management).