MICINN

Omics technologies network for the research and development of functional ingredients and foods based on scientific evidence with effects on cognitive and mental health resilience. Cognitive and mental health disorders affect millions of people, with population ageing, lifestyle factors and chronic stress being three of the main drivers of their high incidence and prevalence. For this reason, preventing and slowing the progression of these disorders is one of the major challenges of the 21st century. The NEUROMICS network addresses this challenge through the development of scientifically-validated functional ingredients and foods capable of improving mental and cognitive [...]

Sustainable and customizable energy solutions for next-generation devices. The PHOTO-RECIRCUIT project drives the development of sustainable and customizable energy solutions for next-generation Internet of Things (IoT) devices, aimed at extending their lifespan and reducing their environmental impact. This initiative is developing a disruptive printed circuit board (PCB) technology using recycled steel substrates, designed to tackle the industry's heavy reliance on batteries and critical raw materials. The solution is based on PCBs with a recyclable steel core, functionalized with advanced vitreous coatings and integrated photovoltaic harvesters. This architecture enables the creation of low-power IoT devices that overcome [...]

Advanced protective coatings obtained through PVD and CVD to increase the service life of tools, dies and moulds used in hot-working material processes. HOT-COAT develops advanced protective coatings, obtained through PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) and CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) technologies, to increase the service life of tools, dies, and molds used in hot-working material processes (hot forging, hot stamping, and plastic injection molding), while also improving the quality of the final surface finish of the processed parts. To this end, the project includes the implementation of new technologies for producing coatings with high functional performance (tribomechanical, [...]

Autonomous system for internal blade inspection aimed at predictive maintenance in wind turbine blades. The project develops an autonomous system for the internal inspection of wind turbine blades using a pendular drone specifically designed to operate in confined environments with complex internal geometries. The system integrates advanced sensing technologies—such as LiDARs (Light Detection and Ranging), optical and thermal cameras, and ultrasound sensors—combined with artificial intelligence techniques to accurately and automatically detect structural defects. In addition, the project incorporates GPS-denied autonomous navigation based on SLAM techniques (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), advanced trajectory control and real-time data transmission, [...]

Autonomous platform for intelligent sewer network inspection. The DRONSEWER project develops an autonomous platform for intelligent sewer inspection using a drone equipped with computer vision, LiDAR sensors (Light Detection and Ranging) and advanced artificial intelligence algorithms. The system automates the inspection of internal channels, enhances operator safety, and generates objective data to optimize infrastructure management and maintenance. DRONSEWER integrates a robotic platform resistant to harsh environments, an advanced navigation system capable of operating without GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System), and real-time obstacle avoidance methods. It also incorporates artificial intelligence tools for automatic defect localization and quantification, [...]

Object reconstruction and instant pose assessment for the automation of intralogistics and manufacturing operations. The ORIGAMI project develops an advanced perception-driven robotic technology to enhance BitMetrics’ Pick[+] solution, enabling robots to manipulate unknown, moving, and cluttered objects in real time. The project combines automatic 3D reconstruction with visual servoing in a unified closed-loop framework, allowing robot actions to be continuously updated based on live visual input. ORIGAMI offers a highly accurate, adaptive, and versatile alternative to traditional picking systems, which often separate perception and motion planning and struggle to respond to unexpected object movements or dynamic [...]

Development of new biodegradable plastic formulations for the biomedical sector. The PHASAL project develops different bioplastic formulations that introduce PHB-HV with different loads of hydroxyvalerate (-HV) from the revaluation of organic waste. The objective is that these formulations, applicable to the health field, present advanced biodegradability and biocompatibility properties to minimize the environmental impact they present due to their poor recyclability. In this sense, PHASAL develops a complex rigid packaging system, such as a suture kit, and a direct medical application with controlled drug release, such as a transdermal patch. The new advanced formulations developed during [...]

Development of new cocrystals of polyphenols with high bioavailability and evaluation of the protective effects of their combination against oxidative stress in exposure to radiation and physical exercise. Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the antioxidant defence, and can cause significant harmful effects on cells, tissues, and organs. Studying and treating oxidative stress is necessary, since excessive ROS production is triggered in some of the daily or periodic activities, such as radiation exposure for medical reasons or endurance exercise. In this sense, some polyphenols have shown protective [...]

Development of aluminum alloys with more than 90% recycled content. The ICARFA project, to obtain these aluminum alloys, establishes a methodology to obtain a constant quality from scrap metal, which results in a predictable casting process that reduces the need for primary material to balance out tramp elements. On the other hand, the project explores the limits of the alloy to comprehensively understand how chemical composition and tramp elements affect allow formability and service properties, being able to tailor the composition to requirements and applications. In addition, ICARFA explores technologies to increase formability of aluminium sheet, applying surface [...]

FormPlate seeks to optimise the energy efficiency, cost and durability of metallic bipolar plates, a key component to guarantee the energy efficiency of proton exchange membrane (PEM) hydrogen fuel cells for application in the automotive sector. The technological innovation of the project is based on: New geometric plate designs by Finite Element Method (FEM) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. Development and improvement of plate manufacturing techniques. Implementation of alternative metallic materials to reduce the cost and weight of the plates. Development of protective, electrically conductive and corrosion-resistant coatings. The energy transition towards electromobility and sustainability [...]