Academic Associate UAS

Mission and Scope of Activities

The proposed research project is funded by the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation, the financial guarantee for Swiss participants in collaborative projects in Horizon Europe and specifically in project RELIANCE (https://reliancehe.eu/overview). The main objective of RELIANCE is to design and develop smart response self-disinfectant antimicrobial nano-coatings based on the antimicrobial action provided by a new range of antimicrobial copper doped mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Cu-SMIN) modified with non-toxic bio-actives (with smart leaching and contact killing actions towards microorganisms) combined with the microbial repelling action provided by the chemistry and physics of nanocoating formulation and validate them as safe, sustainable, durable and resistant to use conditions in three high added value and demanding industrial applications, namely automotive interior parts, frequently touched home appliances, and protective textiles.
An economic analysis compares the existing nanomaterials and associated economics with the novel additives, nano-coatings, and application technologies to the different demonstrators. The impact assessment is performed using PESTLE analysis. This is aimed at investigating macro-environmental factors such as political, economic, social, technological, environmental, legal, and ethical aspects to assess the impact on the market uptake of the proposed solutions. Additional market opportunities should be explored in the context of a cradle-to-cradle product life cycle with considerations of product eco-design criteria. Specific attention is paid to EU safety standards and legislative regulations related to introducing bio-actives, nanoparticles, and nano-coatings into products for consumer use.

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