RESEARCH PROGRAMM
Integrated, Digitally-Steered and Circular Manufacturing Ecosystems
The centre aims to develop a fully integrated, digitally controlled, and circular manufacturing ecosystem—connecting material development, process engineering, and component design in a seamless, AI-driven loop to enable sustainable value chains from raw materials to smart products.
Development of Sustainable, Circular Materials
New families of metals, ceramics, polymers, and 2D-reinforced materials are engineered specifically for processability, quality, and recyclability, addressing critical raw material dependencies and supporting a circular economy.
Resilient, Hybrid Manufacturing Processes
The programme advances hybrid manufacturing by combining additive and conventional processes, enabling scalable, robust process chains that enhance material efficiency, repairability, and product quality.
Digitalisation and AI-Driven
Process Management
Digital twins, AI-supported quality control, digital product passports, and predictive maintenance are used to connect all areas, making the entire value chain transparent, efficient, and traceable.
Safety and Supply Chain Traceability
The centre establishes EU-based alternatives to critical raw materials and builds qualified supply chains with full digital traceability, ensuring safety, compliance, and auditability.
Smart Components with Embedded Functionality
Materials and processes are translated into application-ready smart components featuring multifunctional surfaces, bioactivity, integrated sensors, and recyclable electronics.
Human-System Integration (Human-in-the-Loop)
Digitalisation is designed to keep humans actively involved, with trust-calibrated AI, transparent decision-making, and adaptive interfaces for safe, accepted automation.
Strengthening Resilience and Strategic Autonomy
By fostering local production, innovative materials, recycling, and circular economy practices, the centre reduces reliance on external suppliers and enhances supply security across Europe.
Sustainability and Decarbonisation
as Core Principles
All research areas are aligned with the European Green Deal and Advanced Materials 2030 Roadmap, focusing on energy efficiency, waste reduction, circularity, and climate-neutral production.