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Archive
corzo2
[ September 11, 2025 by vasoula2025 0 Comments ]

Dr. Daniel CORZO

Short CV

Dr. Daniel Corzo is a Senior Scientist at Silicon Austria Labs, specializing in sustainable printed and flexible electronics with applications in healthcare. His research focuses on the development of environmentally friendly materials, solvent systems, and ink formulations for organic photovoltaics, OLEDs, and printed biosensors. By advancing green processing methods and recyclable device architectures, he aims to enable high-performance electronics that also reduce environmental impact. Dr. Corzo coordinates Horizon Europe and EIC-funded projects such as KERMIT, which develops sweat-based diagnostic patches for kidney disease, and also participates in initiatives like EECONE, focused on circular strategies in electronics. His work combines fundamental materials engineering with device integration, bridging laboratory innovation with industrial application. Trained as a mechanical engineer in Mexico and holding a PhD in Materials Science from KAUST, he has published in leading journals and actively contributes to IP development and technology transfer in sustainable electronics.

 

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects over 100 million people in Europe and is projected to become the fifth leading cause of death by 2040. Current detection methods rely on laboratory-based blood tests, which are invasive and often inaccessible outside clinical settings. As a result, the disease frequently remains undiagnosed until it reaches advanced stages. The KERMIT project, funded by the Horizon Europe Pathfinder programme, is developing a skin-worn patch to non-invasively detect CKD biomarkers (Cystatin-C, creatinine, and urea) from sweat. KERMIT’s innovation lies in the integration of electrochemical biosensors, microfluidics, printed battery, and wireless communication alongside a single microchip resulting in sustainable single-use platform fabricated entirely through additive manufacturing.
The core of our approach relies on 3 principles, reduce material usage through simplification and miniaturization, include bio-based and biodegradable materials, and reduce the need of external electronic components. For the sensors, we formulated inks using MXenes and carbon-based nanoparticles to enhance binding sites for antibodies and aptamers resulting in high electrochemical performance. For the sweat collection microfluidic system, we selected bio-based polymers and optimized laser patterning and screen-printing parameters to enhance sweat transport, reduce protein adsorption, and simplify end-of life disposal. We produced a low-power iontophoresis system alongside a printed battery for on-demand sweat extraction, eliminating the need for external stimulation or power sources. By combining these material choices and design optimizations, KERMIT aims to shift CKD monitoring from episodic to continuous care, with the potential to improve patient outcomes, reduce costs, and pave the way for sustainable medical diagnostics.

Beserra
[ September 10, 2025 by vasoula2025 0 Comments ]

Mrs. Emily BEZERRA

Short CV

Emily Bezerra Alexandre obtained her BSc. in Materials Engineering and Materials Science from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (Brazil) in 2020. She then pursued an MSc. in Materials Science and Engineering at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Saudi Arabia, where her research focused on ultra flexible and stretchable 3D-printed electronic skin for tactile sensing, robotics, and extended reality.
In 2022, she joined Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) as a Junior Scientist, where she co-directs the Center of Excellence for Additive Manufacturing of Integrated Systems. At SAL, her work bridges academia and industry, driving the development of eco-conscious printed electronics using sustainable materials, green ink formulations, and aerosol jet printing for health and environmental monitoring applications. She has contributed to multiple EU-funded projects, coordinating interdisciplinary MS students to design recyclable and low-waste electronic platforms.
Currently, Emily is pursuing her PhD in Electrical Engineering at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), under the supervision of Prof. Sandro Carrara and co-supervision of Dr. Jürgen Kosel. Her doctoral research focuses on circular inks, biosourced substrates, and green processing methods for sustainable printed sensors.

 

Abstract

The growing issue of electronic waste (e-waste) has driven the need for sustainable and environmentally friendly approaches in electronics manufacturing. This work focuses on the development of metal-free sensors on biosourced substrates for healthcare and environmental monitoring, addressing the urgent need to reduce the environmental footprint of disposable electronics. By employing bio-based substrates, such as agar derived from red algae and biodegradable cellulose, along with eco-friendly materials like carbon-based electrodes and the conducting polymer PEDOT:PSS, these devices offer a sustainable alternative to traditional electronics that rely on non-degradable plastics and toxic metals.
In the healthcare domain, an all-carbon glucose monitoring sensor was printed on an algae-based substrate. The sensor demonstrated accurate electrochemical detection of glucose within blood physiological ranges, with minimal interference from other biological species, ensuring reliable performance. This offers a promising solution for affordable, disposable health monitoring devices that minimize e-waste. For environmental applications, aerosol jet printing was used to fabricate semi-transparent humidity and temperature sensors on biodegradable cellulose substrates, capable of detecting changes with features as small as 13 µm.
These fully printed, eco-friendly sensors mark a significant step toward sustainable electronics by reducing reliance on harmful materials and promoting biodegradable options. Such innovations not only support environmental monitoring and healthcare applications but also contribute to global efforts to minimize the impact of e-waste, offering a blueprint for the next generation of green electronics.

Schwarz
[ August 26, 2025 by vasoula2025 0 Comments ]

Dr. Elisabeth SCHWARZ-FUNDER

Short CV

DI Dr.techn. Elisabeth Schwarz-Funder holds a doctorate in Technical Chemistry from Graz University of Technology. Her academic background encompasses research in inorganic and hybrid materials, resulting in scientific publications, international presentations, and research stays abroad. During her time as a university assistant, she also gained experience in teaching and supervision.
Her professional career has been shaped by research and development in the areas of sensor technology for the automotive and electronics industries as well as catalytic systems for emission control. This work included the development of ceramic materials and sensors, the design and testing of catalytic processes, and the implementation of nationally and internationally funded research projects. Additional experience was acquired in pilot-scale testing, environmental and quality management processes, and interdisciplinary collaboration at the interface between academia and industry.
Her current research is dedicated to life cycle assessments (LCAs) for chemicals and advanced materials. A particular emphasis is placed on the application of Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) principles to support the development and evaluation of sustainable technologies and processes. She also contributes expertise on the EU Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC) through internal management of the SCIP database (database for information on Substances of Concern in articles and products).
Her professional profile is complemented by qualifications in project management, leadership, and innovation management, with a consistent focus on sustainability-driven research and development.

 

Abstract

The Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design (SSbD) framework aims to embed safety, sustainability, and circularity into innovation from the earliest research stages. Yet, applying SSbD in early-stage R&D is challenging, especially when materials and applications are still under development.
In the EU-funded GreenOmorph project, we explore how SSbD can guide the development of material and process development for sustainable electronics. Even without finalized product designs or value chains, we demonstrate which SSbD steps can already be implemented, and which tools proved to be most effective.
Key challenges include limited data for hazard screening, evolving life cycle considerations, and trade-offs between performance and sustainability. Early R&D typically lacks defined applications and supply chains, making full SSbD assessments unfeasible at the start. Instead, iterative assessments help navigate uncertainty and enable integration of SSbD principles.
To illustrate, piezoelectronic materials developed within GreenOmorph were evaluated using the SSbD framework. Early-stage assessments defined performance targets, selected low-impact technologies, and explored possible integration routes.
A key insight is that assessing all SSbD dimensions in parallel is more effective than a strict step-by-step approach. From the beginning, we expanded our focus beyond hazard assessment to include life cycle and social aspects.
Emerging technologies like printed electronics add complexity, as applications and supply chains are not yet clearly defined. Engaging technical teams to develop exemplary use cases is essential for progressing assessments and integrating SSbD into design.
By sharing insights from GreenOmorph, we show how SSbD can be adapted to data-scarce, early R&D contexts, supporting innovation aligned with long-term sustainability goals.

Lazaridou
[ August 25, 2025 by vasoula2025 0 Comments ]

Mrs. Kyriaki LAZARIDOU

Short CV

I am a graduate of the Department of Chemistry of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (2024) and I am currently pursuing my master’s degree at the same department, specialising in ‘Chemistry and Technology of Polymer and Nanocomposite Materials’.

 

Abstract

Amid intensifying environmental concerns, the pursuit of sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics is paramount. Polylactic acid (PLA) is a promising candidate due to its biodegradability, bio-based nature, compostability, and recyclability. This environmentally benign polyester is noted for thermal properties similar to fossil polymers and sustainable large-scale production.
Within this context, Silver (Ag) nanoparticles offer excellent conductivity, stability, durability, and printability. Copper (Cu) nanoparticles are also prominent in research due to their antimicrobial properties, low cost, and enhance polymer mechanical, thermal, and barrier performance. However, PLA nanocomposites with these NPs, particularly for printed electronics (PE), are relatively unexplored. Developing innovative, low-cost processing methods for PE using PLA substrates with Ag/Cu NPs is an emerging research area.
This research endeavors to synthesize PLA/Ag nanocomposites via in situ ROP/melt extrusion, and PLA/Cu via melt extrusion, using 0.5 and 1.0 wt% NPs concentrations. The resulting nanocomposites were characterized for structural, morphological, thermal, and mechanical properties. Silver ink adhesion was tested on PLA/PET substrates to explore printed electronics applications. Additionally, PLA cast film samples based on NPs were also produced.

Tzammpazidou
[ August 25, 2025 by vasoula2025 0 Comments ]

Mrs. Sotiria TZAMPAZIDOU

Short CV

Sotiria Tzampazidou is a Chemical Engineer who graduated with an Integrated Master’s degree from the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 2023. In 2024, she started working as an Innovation Consultant for AXIA Innovation, located in Munich, a company specializing in accompanying and supporting other companies at all stages of business development and marketing of products or ideas in the field of nanomaterials. She has contributed to many EU-funded projects such as MOZART, REDONDO, GREEN-LOOP, MY-FI, and Sustain a Print (SaP). Her main activities include being responsible for the conceptualization and development of Decision Support Tools (DST), including both front-end and back-end development, IPR Manager assessing partners’ innovations and performing extensive patent mapping analysis to ensure the Freedom to Operate, and being responsible for managing the exploitation initiatives of project partners.

 

Abstract

It is estimated that around 62 million tonnes of e-waste were generated in 2022. This is expected to rise to 82 million tonnes by 2030, while the recycling rate is projected to drop to 20% if no major changes are made. In order to effectively address the growing demand, it is essential to explore innovative approaches that prioritize reuse, repairability, and high-quality recycling. Recyclable Printed electronics (PE), offer a promising solution well-suited for circular electronics production. Based on Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) frameworks, PE can support a more sustainable lifecycle—from design to end-of-life—by enabling products that are easier to disassemble, recycle, or even biodegrade. Lignin and other biomass products emerge as promising materials for sustainable printed electronics due to their abundance and potential to replace fossil-based materials.
The Sustain-a-Print (SaP) project, an EC funded research initiative, targets the development of sustainable materials and formulation for the PE industry. As the PE field matures and the Intellectual Property (IP) landscape rapidly evolves, strategic IP positioning is critical for companies to secure a competitive advantage. In this study an extensive patent analysis was performed, providing insights related to emerging trends and key players. The outcomes of this analysis guide technology developers and help them identify their freedom to operate. The development of lignin-carbon hybrids, a promising material for conductive ink formulations, illustrates the practical application of the current patent assessment.

Iqbal
[ August 25, 2025 by vasoula2025 0 Comments ]

Muhammad Saqlain IQBAL

Short CV

Muhammad Saqlain Iqbal is a doctoral researcher at the Polytechnic University of Bari, Italy, and currently a visiting researcher at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Spain. His work focuses on additive manufacturing, 3D-printed electronics, and lithium-ion batteries, with particular expertise in the chemical synthesis of novel 2D materials and polymer nanocomposites for energy storage. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications in advanced materials, nanochemistry, and sustainable technologies. Beyond research, he actively contributes to international conferences and innovation networks, including served as an Ambassador for the European Institute of Innovation and Technology.

 

Abstract

Additive manufacturing offers unprecedented design freedom for electrochemical devices, yet its application to lithium ion batteries remains nascent. Herein, we report the development and electrochemical evaluation of 3D printed composite electrodes composed of polylactic acid (PLA), lithium titanate (LTO), carbon nanofibers (CNF), and a plasticizer. A feedstock formulation containing 52 wt.% LTO was first optimized via rheological measurements: blends of PLA, plasticizer, and LTO were tuned to achieve an extrusion grade viscosity (10³–10⁴ Pa/s at 180 °C), enabling continuous composite fabrication on a custom material extrusion printer.
Conductivity measurements at room temperature were performed on composite discs with 1-10 wt.% CNF. The results reveal a percolation threshold at 8 wt.% CNF, delivering an electronic conductivity of ~10⁻¹ S cm⁻¹ without compromising print resolution. Disk shaped electrodes (15-18 mm diameter, 0.5 mm thickness) were printed directly from filament and assembled into half cells versus lithium metal in standard coin cell hardware. Galvanostatic cycling at C/25 yielded an initial discharge capacity of 138 mAh g⁻¹, with >99% coulombic efficiency after many formation cycles. Capacity retention remained above 85% when cycling at C/10 over 50 cycles, and rate capability tests demonstrated stable performance up to C/2. These metrics underscore the promise of 3D printed CNF/LTO/PLA electrodes for low power or stationary energy storage applications.

MAHENDRAN
[ August 25, 2025 by vasoula2025 0 Comments ]

Dr. Arunjunai Raj MAHENDRAN

Short CV

Arunjunai Raj Mahendran completed his Habilitation in the field of sustainable bio-based polymers and composites, building on his doctoral research at the University of Leoben (Montanuniversität Leoben), Austria. He is currently a key researcher at Wood K Plus, where he leads innovative projects at the intersection of renewable materials, polymer chemistry, and functional composite technologies.
With extensive expertise in natural fibre reinforcement and bio-based matrix resins, Dr. Mahendran’s current research explores the development of sensors made from renewable sources such as paper, textiles, and fungi (e.g. mycelium). His core focus lies in designing sustainable, energy-autonomous sensor systems, and integrating them into natural fibre composites for smart structural health monitoring, process control, and cure detection.
He is actively working on the advancement of PEDOT:PSS-based humidity, temperature, and strain sensors, UV-curable bio-resins, and the development of smart, multifunctional composites that combine mechanical performance with embedded sensing capabilities.

 

Abstract

The transition toward sustainable industrial practices demands innovative materials that not only reduce environmental impact but also enable intelligent monitoring of products throughout their lifecycle. Sensors made from renewable raw materials, such as paper, offer a compelling alternative to conventional polymer-based sensors.This research presents the development of cost-effective, flexible paper-based sensors tailored for integration into composite materials. Unlike traditional sensors, which are often added as external elements and risk poor adhesion or compatibility, these sensors are embedded during manufacturing. Developed in collaboration with a specialized paper supplier, the sensor substrate has been optimized to ensure precise sensor patterns and reliable performance in harsh processing environments. The sensors are capable of detecting critical parameters such as curing behavior and moisture uptake, offering valuable insight into both the material state and structural condition. Sensor substrate optimization allows for the printing of well-defined, high-performance sensing elements. The sensors enable real-time monitoring of key factors such as moisture and curing, supporting predictive maintenance and improved resource efficiency. Overcoming challenges related to sensor integration in composites by eliminating external elements and ensuring strong bonding within the matrix. The technology addresses the growing market demand for sustainable, embedded sensor solutions aligned with environmental targets.

IMPROTA
[ August 25, 2025 by vasoula2025 0 Comments ]

Dr. Ilaria IMPORTA

Short CV

Her research focuses on the development, characterization, and modelling of innovative polymer composites and nanocomposites with applications in textiles, biomedical, packaging, and aerospace sectors. She has contributed to national and international research projects on smart materials, antimicrobial coatings, and circular economy solutions.
Dr. Improta is co-founder of Wolffia S.r.l., a startup focused on reusing industrial waste for sustainable innovation.
She has published peer-reviewed articles, a book chapter, and several conference proceedings, and has presented her work at international scientific conferences.

 

Abstract

The development of sustainable, water-based conductive coatings is essential for advancing eco-friendly wearable and printed electronics [1,2]. A key challenge remains in achieving high electrical conductivity and wash durability, which depend heavily on the compatibility between the polymer matrix, conductive fillers, and the target substrate [3].
This study investigates a simplified approach to formulating washable conductive coatings [4] by directly integrating few-layer graphene (FLG, 2.5 wt%) into four different commercially available bio-based thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs), blended with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). The focus is on understanding how the segmental architecture of each TPU affects filler dispersion, mechanical integrity, and electrical performance.
The coatings were applied onto flexible substrates (fabric and paper) using a scalable bar-coating process and characterized for morphology, thermal behavior, conductivity, and wash resistance (Figure 1).
Results reveal that the hard-to-soft segment ratio of the TPU plays a critical role in determining both filler distribution and substrate compatibility. TPUs with a higher hard segment content favor interaction with hydrophobic surfaces, while those with moresoft segments enhance adhesion to hydrophilic substrates. Increased soft segment content also improves the internal distribution of conductive fillers, promoting the formation of continuous percolation paths and higher conductivity.
These findings highlight the importance of TPU segmental structure and hydrogen bonding in tuning coating performance. This comparative analysis offers practical insights for selecting optimal polymer matrices based on substrate type and application, supporting the development of durable, high-performance, and washable electronic textiles and paper-based devices.

sofia
[ August 18, 2025 by Alexios Grigoropoulos 0 Comments ]

Dr. Sofia-Paraskevi MAKRI

Short CV

Dr. Sofia-Paraskevi Makri holds a bachelor’s degree in physics from the University of Ioannina, an MSc in Nanomedicine from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, and a Ph.D. in the field of Biobased Polymers from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Her doctoral research focused on the ultrasound-assisted treatment of lignocellulosic biomass for the production of lignin nanoparticles (LNPs). Since September 2017, she has been working as an R&D Scientist at Creative Nano, specialising in nanotechnology for sustainable applications. Her work involves the development of nanocomposites and hybrid materials using environmentally friendly approaches. She has actively contributed to multiple national and EU-funded R&D projects. Dr. Makri has extensive expertise in nanomaterials characterization and has authored several scientific publications, primarily in the fields of nanotechnology and biobased materials.

 

Abstract

The environmental concerns of electronic industry waste have driven the development of sustainable materials for green electronics. In this study, lignin-based hybrids with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were synthesised via an environmentally benign, ultrasonication-based method in aqueous medium, without the use of organic solvents or hazardous chemicals. Two hybrid formulations mainly composed of lignin, a biomass product and MWCNTs at concentrations of 10% and 20% MWCNTs were developed and characterised physiochemically through analytical techniques. Physical interactions between lignin and MWCNTs improved the dispersion and colloidal stability of the resulting hybrids as evaluated by hydrodynamic diameter and zeta potential values through Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). SEM and TEM micrographs revealed the formation of a lignin matrix embedding a percolated CNT network. Broadband Dielectric Spectroscopy (BDS) was utilised to determine the conductivity of hybrids. Conductivity ranged from 5 to 6 × 10⁻² S/cm for both hybrids, notably close to the conductivity of raw MWCNTs, despite the hybrids containing up to 90 wt% of insulating lignin. Electrochemical study of hybrids showed enhanced electron transfer and overall redox performance as well as increased electroactive surface areas-up to 21 times higher than unmodified electrodes-demonstrating improved electron transfer kinetics. These findings encourage the potential of lignin-MWCNT hybrids as sustainable, conductive fillers in electronic and sensing applications, offering a green alternative to conventional materials.

Max-Torrellas-headshot
[ July 30, 2025 by Alexios Grigoropoulos 0 Comments ]

Dr. Max TORRELLAS

Short CV

Researcher in the Biotechnology group at AIMPLAS. He holds a PhD in Biotechnology and Biomedicine from the University of Valencia and a Master’s degree in Plant Molecular Biotechnology from the Polytechnic University of Valencia. He spent 5 years in public research organisms, working on biotechnology of industrial non-conventional yeasts. Later he joined the Valencian Institute of Microbiology.

In 2023 he joined the Recycling and Biotechnology cluster at AIMPLAS, where he is currently working on exploring novel biotechnology possibilities for the recovery of critical raw materials from electrical and electronic waste.

Abstract

The transition to sustainable printed electronics (PE) requires solutions for end-of-life (EoL) management, including the development of effective recycling and material recovery strategies. This contribution presents ongoing efforts within the EU-funded REFORM project and complementary activities focused on the recycling of electronics.

In REFORM, multiple recycling approaches are being validated to address the complex composition of PE systems. The selection of recycling strategies is informed by stakeholder insights and current waste collection policies and practices, ensuring system-compatible solutions. These include simulations of industry sorting scenarios using different technologies.

To complement physical separation methods, the feasibility of material recovery is explored. Bio-recovery of valuable metals is explored as a low environmental impact alternative for the extraction of metals (Ag) from electronic waste. In parallel, chemical recycling alternatives are also explored. Metal recovery from PE waste is key in ensuring resource efficiency and reduces the need for virgin metal extraction, aligning with circular economy objectives. Beyond REFORM, AIMPLAS leverages its expertise in electronics recycling to advance the recyclability of PE materials with pilot recycling infrastructure.