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FRONTHS1P Project General Assembly Inspires Progress

FRONTHS1P Project General Assembly Inspires Progress

On December 5th and 6th, the FRONTHS1P General Assembly convened in the vibrant city of Bolzano, hosted by the University of Bozen-Bolzano at the NOI Techpark Alto Adige. This pivotal event brought together all Work Package leaders to review the project’s progress, share updates, and plan the next steps for achieving its ambitious goals. A standout feature of the gathering was the visit to the University laboratories, where attendees had the opportunity to witness groundbreaking advancements, including the combustion chamber and gasifier testing. These demonstrations highlighted the innovative work driving FRONTHS1P’s mission forward, showcasing the potential of sustainable solutions in action. FRONTHS1P is a transformative initiative based in the Łódzkie region of Poland, a region with a unique dual identity: historically reliant on coal extraction but also a trailblazer in circular (bio)economy since the early 2000s. Over the next four years, the project aims to lead the Łódzkie region through a green and just transition, moving away from a linear economic model toward one rooted in sustainability. Central to this vision are four Circular Systemic Solutions (CSS), each targeting critical sectors: Wood Packaging; Food & Feed; Water & Nutrients; and Plastic & Rubber Waste. These CSS are designed for decarbonization […]

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INL Hosts H2 Green Valley Agenda WP4 Meeting Focused on Hydrogen and Green Energy

INL Hosts H2 Green Valley Agenda WP4 Meeting Focused on Hydrogen and Green Energy

On December 3rd, the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) welcomed project teams from INL, Instituto Superior Técnico, and HyLab for a pivotal meeting under the H2 Green Valley Agenda’s Work Package 4 (WP4) – Transversal R&D. The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts driving innovation in hydrogen and green energy technologies. During the event, participants explored INL’s state-of-the-art laboratories, gaining valuable insights into the research and development efforts focused on energy, particularly hydrogen and green energy solutions. The teams also engaged in a comprehensive exchange of knowledge, sharing their experiences and the outcomes of specific projects in the hydrogen sector. The day concluded with a focused working session addressing the ongoing tasks and objectives of work package within the context of the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), ensuring alignment and progress toward the agenda’s overarching goals. This meeting underscored the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in advancing green hydrogen technology. The H2 Green Valley Agenda continues to contribute to a sustainable energy future, with INL playing a central role in fostering innovation and partnership in this transformative sector.

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Denis Santos explores the critical role of sensors in ensuring safety and efficiency within the H2 Green Valley Agenda

Denis Santos explores the critical role of sensors in ensuring safety and efficiency within the H2 Green Valley Agenda

At INL, innovation is at the core of our mission to address global challenges. Dr. Denis Santos, a Research Engineer in the Piteira Research Group since 2023, is advancing sensor technology with applications ranging from biomedical fields to energy systems. In this interview, Denis Santos explores the critical role of sensors in ensuring safety and efficiency within the H2 Green Valley Agenda, Portugal’s leading green hydrogen initiative. He discusses how working on large-scale projects shapes innovation, balancing cutting-edge research with market needs, and emphasizes the importance of public trust in the scalability of hydrogen systems. With experience at CERN, Denis Santos offers a unique perspective on transforming research into real-world applications through industry partnerships and technology transfer. His work highlights the power of collaboration in building a sustainable, safe energy future. Dive into this interview to learn how advanced sensor technologies are shaping the path toward a greener tomorrow. In what ways could your work in sensors contribute to monitoring safety and efficiency in the green hydrogen value chain for the H2 Green Valley Agenda? Hydrogen holds great promise in both the stationary and transportation energy sectors since no harmful emissions are produced during its combustion and it is generally considered […]

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INL Hosts Key Seminar on Critical Mineral Resources and Battery Value Chain

INL Hosts Key Seminar on Critical Mineral Resources and Battery Value Chain

On November 12, the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory hosted a significant seminar titled “Critical Mineral Resources and the Battery Value Chain: Opportunities and Challenges for Portugal.” Organized by Battery Cluster Portugal and the Cluster Portugal Mineral Resources Association, the event attracted over 150 experts, industry representatives, and government officials. The gathering focused on Portugal’s strategic role in the battery sector and the vital mineral resources required for battery production, aiming to explore innovative strategies and address industry challenges. The session opened with remarks from Portugal’s Secretary of State for Energy, Professor Maria João Pereira, who emphasized the country’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions. Dr. Joaquim Nunes de Almeida, Director of DG GROW at the European Commission, followed with an outline of the EU’s strategic guidelines for managing critical mineral resources, highlighting Europe’s efforts to secure these essential resources as the demand for batteries and renewable technologies grows. Throughout the day, panel discussions led by companies, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders delved into topics such as technological innovation, sustainability, and the integration of advanced materials into the battery supply chain. Moderated by leading universities, these sessions provided insights into the opportunities and challenges Portugal faces in building a resilient, sustainable […]

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Sinfonia Project Concludes with a Resounding Success at the II ‘Total-Nanosafe’ International Conference in Braga

Sinfonia Project Concludes with a Resounding Success at the II ‘Total-Nanosafe’ International Conference in Braga

Braga recently hosted the closing event of the Sinfonia Project, where over 100 participants celebrated the successful culmination of a four-year journey dedicated to advancing nanosafety. The II ‘Total-Nanosafe’ International Conference served as the platform for this milestone, bringing together global experts to explore the intersection of nanotechnology, human health, and environmental impact. Pioneering Discussions in Nanosafety This year’s conference provided a comprehensive view of the latest nanosafety advancements, featuring discussions on nanotoxicology, organ-on-a-chip models, in vitro-in vivo bridging, in silico methods, and the environmental impact of nanomaterials. The event highlighted key trends shaping the future of nanosafety, underscoring a commitment to safe and sustainable nanotechnology development. Conference Highlights The conference opened with a welcome cocktail on November 6, followed by sessions on November 7 and 8. Professor Ulla Vogel from Denmark’s National Research Centre for the Working Environment delivered an impactful keynote on nanoparticle toxicology, focusing on occupational health risks related to nanoparticles, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and fertility impacts. Presentations from INL and other leading institutions covered diverse research topics, such as the effects of silver nanoparticles on lung-barrier function, skin-on-chip safety models, and the impacts of black carbon on aging. These studies highlighted the scope of nanosafety […]

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INL’s Commitment to Science Outreach: New Board Games Illuminate Nanosafety and Air Quality Awareness for Young Audiences

INL’s Commitment to Science Outreach: New Board Games Illuminate Nanosafety and Air Quality Awareness for Young Audiences

INL – The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory continues to champion science outreach and education by introducing two innovative board games: The Life Cycle of Nanomaterials and Clean Air in School! Play & LEARN. These games, developed through INL’s projects—SiNfONiA, LEARN, and SbDToolbox—reflect INL’s enduring commitment to bridging the gap between complex scientific research and accessible learning for younger audiences and by it’s commitment to science outreach by illuminating nano safety and air quality awareness for young audiences. These games embody INL’s goal of making science both engaging and educational, fostering a new generation’s awareness of environmental safety, health, and nanotechnology’s impact on daily life. Through these immersive tools, INL emphasises that scientific understanding is not only the domain of researchers but also a vital area of knowledge for the broader community. “The Life Cycle of Nanomaterials“, Bringing Awareness of Materials’ Lifetime Supported solely by INL through the SiNfONiA and SbDToolbox projects, The Life Cycle of Nanomaterials board game provides players with a comprehensive understanding of nanomaterials’ journey from creation to potential environmental and health impacts. SiNfONiA, spearheaded by the Alfaro-Moreno Group, is dedicated to advancing research in nanosafety and enhancing INL’s capabilities in this field. In parallel, the SbDToolbox project addresses the critical need for […]

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Stamp-sized microchip that imitates the human brain could speed up treatments for Alzheimer’s [republished]

Stamp-sized microchip that imitates the human brain could speed up treatments for Alzheimer’s [republished]

A human brain-on-a-chip sounds like something from a science fiction film, a gadget powering its cyborg villain.  Discover how INL’s innovative stamp-sized microchip is transforming healthcare and data security. Learn about this ultra-small technology and its impact on future applications. Chemical and biological engineer Dr Raquel Rodrigues at the INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) in Braga, Portugal, believes that such a device will be key to developing more effective treatments for serious neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s. “The brain is a very complex and puzzling organ,” said Rodrigues. “We need electronic monitoring of cells and experimental parts so we can learn how it works.” Your brain on a chip Thanks to research funding from the EU, Rodrigues and fellow researchers at the INL were able to build a unique brain-emulating microchip as part of a two-year research effort called BrainChip4MED that concluded in February 2024. The research included a 12-month secondment to Brigham and Women’s Hospital, part of Harvard Medical School and pioneers in the development of organs-on-a-chip (OoC) and biosensors. The ingenious, thumbnail-sized device developed by the researchers looks similar to chips in computers or smartphones, but is much more complex.  “ The brain is a very complex and […]

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ERN 2024 Brings Science to Life for Nearly 1,400 Participants in Braga

ERN 2024 Brings Science to Life for Nearly 1,400 Participants in Braga

On September 27, 2024, nearly 1,400 participants gathered in Braga for the European Researchers’ Night (ERN), under the theme Science for Global Challenges. The event showcased cutting-edge research and demonstrated how science addresses critical global issues like environmental protection, economic development, and social justice. INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, committed to outreach and bringing science closer to the public, actively participated with European funded projects such as LEARN, FRONTSH1P, Forging, and 3DSecret. Attendees enjoyed interactive experiences, including optical experiments revealing the colors of white light, engaging science-themed board games, and an immersive exploration of extracellular vesicles. João Martinho Moura’s multimedia performance micromacronanooffered a unique blend of art and science, illustrating the connection between the smallest particles and the vastness of the universe. The Consortium: A National Collaboration ERN 2024 was powered by a national consortium. INL and the University of Minho led efforts in Braga, while the University of Coimbra, University of Lisbon, Universidade Nova, ISCTE, and the University of Évora ensured the event reached communities across Coimbra, Lisbon, and Alentejo, making science accessible throughout the country. + A day to remember. See the full photo gallery here >>

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INL recognised as “key innovator” in cutting-edge spintronics technology by EC Innovation Radar

INL recognised as “key innovator” in cutting-edge spintronics technology by EC Innovation Radar

The work developed by the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory within the EU-funded project RadioSpin was recently highlighted on the European Commission’s Innovation Radar for its significant potential. The important milestone is the result of the joint effort by INL and two consortium partners – Thales and CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) – in the development of RF-mode MTJ stacks and devices optimised for neuromorphic computing and sensing. This breakthrough technology, which mimics brain-like computing, is set to transform fields like neuromorphic computing and advanced sensing. The Innovation: A Game-Changer in Neuromorphic Computing and Sensing The innovation centres on Magnetic Tunnel Junction (MTJ) stacks in radio frequency (RF) mode. These optimised MTJ devices offer potential breakthroughs in neuromorphic computing—a field inspired by biological neural networks, aimed at more efficient, brain-like computing. Additionally, their sensing capabilities could significantly enhance various high-tech applications, from telecommunication to smart sensors, benefiting a wide range of industries such as IoT, AI, and healthcare. The Innovation Radar analysis identifies this technology as having great market potential. RadioSpin focuses on developing spintronic devices that operate at high frequencies, offering innovative telecommunications and neuromorphic computing solutions. Spintronics is a technology that exploits the intrinsic spin of electrons […]

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