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On-going calls ICT - Topics 35 - ICT-2007.3.6: Micro/nanosystems full description click again to close Target outcomes: a) Next-generation smart systems [note 1]: Major breakthroughs in intelligent sensor and actuator systems complexity, miniaturisation, networking, and autonomy. Micro/nanoscale smart systems with higher performance at lower cost and lower power consumption for specific applications. Energy-management, scavenging and storing techniques. Design and packaging technologies for new sensors, actuators and microsystems, their combination and integration. Innovative devices and integrated systems with very high density mass storage capacity building upon progress in solid-state semiconductors, micro/nanodevices, mechanics, optics, electronics and magnetism. b) Micro/nano/biotechnologies’ convergence: Converging micro/nano, bio and information technologies for the development and production of integrated systems for specific applications, such as environmental monitoring, agriculture and food quality management, safety, security, biomedical and lifestyle applications. Innovative bioMEMS, biosensors, lab-on-chip microsystems and autonomous implants and bio-robots. Research will also address packaging, multilevel interfacing, manufacturing, as well as ethical and societal issues. c) Integration of smart materials: Integration of micro-nano technologies and smart systems into new and traditional materials, e.g. textiles, glass, paper, etc. Major outcome is a new generation of advanced polymeric, biocompatible, bioconnective, flexible and very durable  materials. Emphasis is on integration into, for example, smart fabrics (SFIT [note 2] ) using micro/nanosystems at the fibre core, microelectronics components, user interfaces, power sources, software, all-in-one fabric, for personal (wearable) or other applications. Issues such as user-friendliness, quality, cost and comfort should be considered. d) From smart systems to viable products: Advanced microsystems manufacturing technologies for the whole value chain (design, materials, processes, micro-/nano-scale devices, packaging testing and reliability) with a focus on cost-effective sensor/actuator and system integration technologies, supported by alternative fabrication and testing processes for short time-to-markets. Pre-industrial validation of new manufacturing concepts suitable for large-scale production will also be addressed. e) Smart systems for communications and data management: Smart micro/nanosystems enabling wireless access and facilitating intelligent networking with emphasis on the hardware required for communications and the management of smart device information. This includes solutions for adaptable RF and HF technologies (e.g. RFID, RF-NEMS and HF-NEMS). Data management, storage and processing functions of smart systems will also be addressed. f) Support actions will ensure broad access to micro/nanosystems manufacturing technologies, in particular by SMEs, identify training and education needs of the area proposing appropriate measures and establish specific measures aiming at coordination and dissemination of smart systems integration RTD at European level. Expected impact • Substantial improvement on various aspects of smart systems integration: Higher product quality and reliability, increased miniaturisation, integration and functionality, lower costs, reduced power consumption, higher speed requirements and/or shorter time-tomarket. • Transformation of industrial production by adding intelligence to process control and the manufacturing shop floor, and by improving logistics and distribution - thereby increasing productivity. • Increased market share for European companies across different industrial sectors by delivering systems with new functional capabilities and improved quality within a competitive timeframe. Funding schemes a-e): CP, NoE; f): CSA Call: FP7-ICT-2007-2 note1 = Smart systems are understood as systems able to sense, diagnose, describe and qualify a given situation as well as able to mutually address and identify each other. They are able to interface, interact and communicate with their environment and with other smart systems. note 2 = Smart Fabric Interactive Textiles [download PDF] 12 - ICT-2007.3.5: Photonic components and subsystems full description click again to close Target outcomes a) Core photonic components and subsystems, which are essential in multiple application fields: (1) High performance lasers. (2) High brightness, power efficient solid-state light sources for ICT and general lighting applications. (3) Optical fibres for high performance and for specific functions. (4) High performance image sensors. (5) Sensors exploiting innovative sensing principles. b) Application-specific photonic components and subsystems for application fields, which are strategic for Europe and which are important drivers of photonics technology development: Components and subsystems for: (1) truly cost effective broadband core networks at 40 Gb/s or beyond per channel. (2) scalable, future-proof and economic broadband access and local area networks. (3) minimally invasive medical diagnosis and prevention. (4) sensing for environment, well-being, safety and security. RTD on photonic components and subsystems may also cover related materials and fabrication technologies (including mounting and packaging), and related photonic system concepts. Expected Impact • Leading position of European industry in high-value photonic products. • New photonic based applications in several industrial sectors with emphasis on communications, health, well-being, environment, safety and security. • Continued European leadership in RTD in photonics from components to systems, securing the necessary human resources and knowledge to design, produce and use new generations of photonic components. Funding schemes a-c): CP; d): CP, NoE; e): CSA Call: FP7-ICT-2007-2 [download PDF] ICT Call 2 EPSS is now available for this call for proposals Identifier: FP7-ICT-2007-2 Publication date: 12 June 2007 Budget: € 477 000 000 Deadline: 09 October 2007 at 17:00:00 (Brussels local time) Health - Topics 17 - HEALTH-2007-2.2.1-1: Stroke and mechanisms underlying ischemic brain damage full description click again to close Research should focus on the pathophysiological mechanisms and the neurological consequences of ischemic stroke. The project should also investigate innovative therapeutic strategies (e.g. novel  neuroprotectants, nanotechnology, gene or cell therapy) to prevent the development and propagation of ischemic brain damage and/or to repair such brain damage to improve neurological outcome. Funding scheme: Collaborative project (Large-scale integrating project). [download PDF] 8 - HEALTH-2007-2.2.1-2: Coding in neuronal assemblies full description click again to close Research should focus on mechanisms of coding at the level of neuronal assemblies or microcircuits, aimed at understanding the interface between neuronal activity and behavioural performance. The project should develop interaction between experimentation and modelling, and therefore include a strong neuroinformatics dimension. Funding scheme: Collaborative projects (Small or medium-scale focused research projects). [download PDF] 7 - HEALTH-2007-2.4.1-7: Improving targeted drug delivery to cancer cells for cancer therapeutics other than gene therapy full description click again to close Multidisciplinary consortia should focus on innovative solutions to overcome the current problems with drug delivery to cancer cells using for example innovative nanotechnology-, peptide- or antibody- based targeting strategies. Funding scheme: Collaborative projects (Small or medium-scale focused research projects). (in coordination with NMP-2007-4.0-4 in Theme 4). [download PDF] 0 - HEALTH-2007-1.3-4: Alternative testing strategies for the assessment of the toxicological profile of nanoparticles used in medical diagnostics 0 - HEALTH-2007-1.4-4: Development of emerging gene therapy tools and technologies for clinical application FP7-HEALTH-2007-B EPSS is now available for this call for proposals Identifier: FP7-HEALTH-2007-B Publication date: 19 June 2007 Budget: € 549 000 000 Deadline: 18 September 2007 at 17:00:00 (Brussels local time) Closed calls ICT - Topics 18 - ICT-2007.3.1: Next-Generation Nanoelectronics Components and Electronics full description click again to close Integration Target outcome: The objectives are to advance miniaturisation in baseline CMOS technology targeting digital components and complex digital Systems on Chip ("More Moore"); to master diversification targeting non-digital applications, heterogeneous integration in Systems-on-Chip or Systemsin- a-Package ("More than Moore") and to prepare for the technology generation beyond the CMOS scaling limits ("beyond CMOS"). a) “More Moore” targets nanoelectronics devices beyond 32 nm following the International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors (ITRS). Specific issues are the increasing process variability and expected physical and reliability limitations of devices and interconnects as well as the need for new circuit architectures and characterisation methods and techniques. "More than Moore" targets heterogeneous System-on-Chip (SoC) i.e. cost efficient integration of computing, processing and storage with other system functions of various scaling factors (such as analogue, RF [from extremely low frequency up to millimetrewave and beyond], high speed, high power, high voltage, and interface technologies) on a single chip. It also targets System-in-Package (SiP) i.e. integration of different types of chips and devices in a single package or compact subsystem. Specific issues are power consumption, electro-magnetic interference and heat dissipation. Industrially-driven projects will target: 1. Advances in Integration and Miniaturisation Technologies, and in Devices covering nanoelectronics process technology, metrology, materials, basic device and interconnect structures and related concepts and tools for modelling and simulation for below 32 nm CMOS and for System-on-Chip. Changes in the electrical characteristics, in thermal and mechanical behaviour, in performance, reliability, testability, manufacturability and power consumption of the components need to be addressed. Integration technology also includes wafer level packaging, assembly technology, integration of passives and 3D packaging. 2. Design technologies for next-generation components and electronics integration. They must support a chip complexity of billions of transistors and take into account the increased process variability and changing performances of the advanced devices and processes. This requires a step increase in design productivity for instance through standardised Intellectual Property reuse and scalable and programmable chip architectures. Also targeted are design platforms for SoC and SiP supporting a heterogeneous, global and comprehensive performance simulation of different technologies covering multiple aspects including electrical, optical, mechanical and thermal behaviour. Emphasis will be put on SoC and SiP system design solutions from formal application specification down to physical implementation, and on the effectiveness of co-simulation between different description levels. 3. Manufacturing technologies for: reliable, cost effective industrial manufacturing of sub-45 nm chips; SoC and SiP processes; flexible, automated, adaptive, on-demand and short cycle time manufacturing under economically favourable conditions. This will be based on: (i) models, tools and equipment for AEC/APC-based18 manufacturing and maintenance; supporting metrology, characterisation and information tools and methods; (ii) advanced modelling techniques and chip design for increasing manufacturability, production yield, testability and reliability and linking manufacturing with design; (iii) alternative pattern transfer technologies, such as maskless lithography; (iv) characterisation techniques supporting multi-site and single wafer, small batch manufacturing; (v) handling of thin wafers and assembly of single chips. This also includes preparatory activities for 450-mm wafer processing and joint assessment of manufacturing and metrology equipment for chips and SiPs by equipment suppliers and users. b) “Beyond CMOS” targets advanced technologies and functional devices beyond the traditional ITRS shrink path. It involves new non-FET based logic and memory, and its possible integration with CMOS. A matching of integration, manufacturability and system capability requirements shall be demonstrated in industry-guided pilot projects. c) Support measures will complement the research activities: - Access to prototyping, design expertise and training for SMEs. 18 AEC/APC Advanced Equipment and Process Control - Access for universities and research institutes to affordable industrial design tools, state-of-the-art technologies for prototyping and training. - Roadmapping, benchmarking and definition of selection criteria for the industrial use of “Beyond CMOS” technologies. - Stimulating the interest of young people in pursuing a multidisciplinary career encompassing electronics. - Supporting the development of RTD strategies through roadmapping, consensus building, coordination with Member or Associated States, and international cooperation. - CSA aiming at coordinating related national, regional and EU-wide RTD programmes or activities. Expected impact: • Strengthened competitiveness of European nanoelectronics supply industry across a complete value-chain involving large, mid-sized and small companies, enabling European industry to lead and anticipate progress in the context of the ITRS roadmap. • New electronics applications of high economic and socio-economic relevance in e.g. communications, health, environment, transport and security. • European research organisations in leading positions with an increased number of highskilled jobs in design and user industries and related services. Funding schemes a-b): CP, NoE; c): CSA Call FP7-ICT-2007- [download PDF] 9 - ICT-2007.3.2: Organic and large-area electronics, visualisation and display systems full description click again to close Target outcomes a) Organic and large-area technologies for logic, memory and light-emitting functionalities addressing e-paper, smart systems on tags, low-cost RFIDs, lab on chip devices, intelligent packaging, displays, signage, and intelligent lighting systems. Emphasis will be: on large-area and low-cost manufacturing technologies like printing involving additive processes and related materials; on new device structures; on advanced modelling, simulation, and characterisation for circuit design; on encapsulation, interconnects and system in foil integration; on innovative sensing, energy storage and scavenging, and power management functions. Attention should be paid to the overall manufacturing aspects including cost, capital investment and environmental impact. Support measures will include access to advanced manufacturing and design competences, training and education for organic and large area electronics, joint user assessment of prototype equipment from European suppliers and will develop synergies between the electronics and the printing sectors on circuit design, manufacturing equipment and standardisation. b) Advanced visualisation systems and novel display technologies. Visualisation systems extending colour gamut and dynamic range beyond current state-of-the-art, taking into account human vision and perceptual models. They should support multi-viewer, unaided and unrestricted 3D viewing, as well as natural interaction modalities. This includes signal acquisition, processing and representation technologies for 3D-systems. Research results are to be integrated into working prototypes addressing key professional and consumer applications. Further outcomes will be portable display systems such as zero-power / 'ruggedised' displays, flexible and/or transparent devices, energy efficient microprojectors, and lightweight high-resolution vision glasses. Expected impact For large area and printed electronics: • Reinforcement of Europe’s leading role in this promising technology domain enabling traditional industry to benefit from progress in these fields. • New market possibilities and new manufacturing paradigms, thereby creating new opportunities for local employment. • New generation of electronic devices opening up a range of new usage opportunities. For visualisation and display systems: • Strengthening of European scientific and business position leading to breakthroughs and innovative solutions for professional and consumer markets. • Wider use of the third physical dimension for professional applications, movies, games and TV. Funding schemes CP, NoE, CSA Call: FP7-ICT-2007-1 [download PDF] 7 - ICT-2007.8.1: FET proactive 1: Nano-scale ICT devices and systems full description click again to close Target outcome: To demonstrate unconventional solutions to increase computing performance, functionality or communication speed, or to reduce cost, size and power consumption of ICT components beyond the expected limits of CMOS technology. Research should cover at least one of the following points: - Demonstration of new concepts for switches or memory cells, to substantially improve performance, cost, integration density and/or power dissipation beyond those of ultimate CMOS technology using nanostructures or non-charge based approaches. Complementary challenges include circuit architectures, assembly and reconfiguration. - Demonstration of new concepts, technologies and architectures for local and chip-level interconnects with substantial improvements over current solutions. Key drivers are: transmission speed, integration density, reduction in power consumption, integration of new functions, ease of design and manufacturing. - Demonstration of radically new functionalities by the integration of blocks from a few nanometres down to the atomic scale into high added-value systems. Candidates include NEMS and NEMS arrays; approaches based on photons, plasmons, phonons; approaches exploiting internal degrees of freedom of atoms and molecules and based on atomic precision control and addressability. Coordination actions (CAs) should support the consolidation of research communities, their visibility, the coordination of research agendas, the mapping and benchmarking of research at European level, and the identification of drivers to assess research in nano-scale ICT devices and systems. They also address the coordination of national or regional research programmes or activities. The initiative also encourages international cooperation in foundational research on topics described above. Expected Impact Projects on switches, memories or interconnects should open, verify and assess new unconventional approaches to ICT. They should demonstrate proof of concept at laboratory level to prepare future applied RTD. Projects on new functionalities should open radically new directions in ICT devices and technologies and aim at experimental demonstrations of principle, feasibility and concrete advantages. Funding schemes CP, CSA (CA only) Indicative budget distribution [note] 20 M€: - CP 19 M€ of which a minimum of 10 M€ to IP and a minimum of 4 M€ to STREP; - CSA 1 M€ Call FP7-ICT-2007-1 [note] Most of the amount for Call 1 is from the 2007 budget and is under the condition that the preliminary draft budget for 2007 is adopted without modifications by the budget authority. The remaining amount for Call 1 and the amounts for Calls 2, 3, FET-Open and the joint call with the security theme are expected to be covered by the 2008 budget for which a new financing decision to cover the budget for that year will be requested at the appropriate time. [download PDF] 6 - ICT-2007.8.3: FET proactive 3: Bio-ICT convergence full description click again to close Target outcome: New perspectives in ICT that exploit the understanding of information processing in biological systems have demonstrable advantages in terms of functionality, operating conditions, resilience or adaptability or lead to systems that can be naturally combined with biological systems. Projects will integrate some of the following topics: - Novel computing paradigms, derived from the information representation and processing capabilities of biological systems (networks of neurons or other cells), or from the computational interpretation of biological processes (molecular signalling, metabolism) and with measurable advantages over current approaches to difficult problems in information processing. - Biomimetic artefacts: ad hoc hardware implementations of bio-inspired systems in areas where standard devices do not provide the required performance. This may use analogue and digital circuits, evolvable hardware, artificial cells, neuro-morphic chips or sensors for achieving life-like functionality or properties such as self organisation, robustness or growth. - Bidirectional interfaces between electronic or electro-mechanical systems and living entities, at or close to the cellular level, with adequate control and/or signal processing algorithms, enabling direct interfacing to the nervous system or to other types of cells. - Biohybrid artefacts, involving tightly coupled ICT and biological entities (e.g. neural or other types of biological tissue) for new forms of computation, sensing, communication or physical actuation or adaptation. Coordination actions (CAs) should support the consolidation of research communities, their visibility, the coordination of research agendas and, where appropriate, the coordination of national or regional research programmes or activities. The initiative also encourages international cooperation in foundational research on its topics described above. Expected impact: This multi-disciplinary research should foster joint progress and synergy in ICT and the bioand neuro-sciences. Novel computing paradigms should lead to a fundamental rethinking of notions of information and computation that may be better suited for certain classes of problems and that can be implemented in biological, biomimetic or biohybrid devices. Such devices will need to satisfy requirements of, e.g. performance, resilience or energy consumption that are currently difficult to meet. Research on bio-interfaces and bio-hybrid devices should enable new bio-compatible ICT uses that rely on direct interactions between the technological and the living, such as for robust brain-machine interfacing or for powerful sensory-motor capabilities. Funding schemes CP, CSA (CA only) Indicative budget distribution [note] 20 M€: - CP 19 M€ of which a minimum of 10 M€ to IP and a minimum of 4 M€ to STREP; - CSA 1 M€ Call: FP7-ICT-2007-1 [note] Most of the amount for Call 1 is from the 2007 budget and is under the condition that the preliminary draft budget for 2007 is adopted without modifications by the budget authority. The remaining amount for Call 1 and the amounts for Calls 2, 3, FET-Open and the joint call with the security theme are expected to be covered by the 2008 budget for which a new financing decision to cover the budget for that year will be requested at the appropriate time. [download PDF] ICT Call 1 Identifier: FP7-ICT-2007-1 Publication date: 22 December 2006 Budget: € 1 019 000 000 Deadline: 08 May 2007 at 17:00:00 (Brussels local time) NMP - Topics 38 - NMP-2007-2.1-2 Nanostructured coatings and thin films full description click again to close Technical content/scope: The advent of nanotechnology has enabled tailoring the structure of coatings and films at the nanoscale, subsequently producing a radical enhancement of their performance. Research is required for the development of nanoreinforced ceramic and metallic coatings and their processing technologies in order to produce major improvements regarding high strength, high ductility, adhesion or excellent impact resistance. The projects should consider the development of novel nanostructured coatings and thin films with markedly enhanced properties such as high hardness, chemical inertness (e.g. oxidation, corrosion), UV resistance, bioresistance and improved wear behaviour, as well as the study of novel structures, surface modification, multilayers, and a new generation of solid lubricants and tribological materials. Electronics and photonics applications are not included. The proposals should deal with safety and life-cycle issues and include an evaluation of the cost effectiveness of the nanostructured materials. Funding scheme : Small or medium scale focused collaborative projects. Special features: Industrial participation is required. Expected impact: Nanostructured coatings and thin films are crucial for a variety of industrial uses, such as improved tribological materials for the mechanical industry in e.g. engine parts and drilling tools, and for new multifunctional films with wide applicability. [download PDF] 33 - NMP-2007-2.1-3 Characterisation of nanostructured materials full description click again to close Technical content/scope: The field of nanostructured materials has witnessed quite remarkable progress in recent years, with many different types of nanomaterials being synthesized for potentially wide industrial applications. Advanced characterisation methods to determine their structure and properties are essential for the development and processing of these nanostructured materials. Moreover, many new characterisation techniques are not well known or are unaffordable for SMEs active in nanomaterial production. European-wide efforts are needed to compile the characterisation techniques that are in use or should be developed to support further nanomaterial development, in particular, the design of intrinsically safe nanomaterials. The coordination actions should focus on the identification and co-ordination at European level of dissemination and development actions to allow researchers and nanomaterial producers, in particular SMEs, to be well aware of the state-of-the-art in characterisation tools for nanostructured materials. Harmonisation work for potential standards in the field of characterisation of nanostructured materials should also be considered. Funding scheme: Coordination and support actions aiming at coordinating research activities. Special features: None Expected impact: Dissemination of novel techniques and preparation of standards in the field of nanomaterials characterisation. For example, it is very common for nanoparticles to be characterised only in terms of particle size (SEM) and reactivity (specific surface) with no consideration of the structure-properties relationship at the relevant length scale. This is even more pronounced if nanocomposites, hybrid systems and interface behaviour are considered. Increased take up of nanomaterial characterisation methods beyond using just particle size and reactivity would be expected in particular for SMEs. Development of, or preparatory work for, new standards in the field of characterisation of nanostructured materials. [download PDF] 26 - NMP-2007-1.2-2 Equipment and methods for nanotechnology full description click again to close Technical content / scope: Equipment and methods for characterisation and operations at the nanoscale are needed in order to explore and exploit size dependent phenomena with the aim of developing innovative materials, products, devices and processes or enhance quality control systems. The research projects should focus on the development of instrumentation and methods for measurement, analysis and operations at the nanoscale to characterize nano-features with improved resolution and/or increased sensitivity, based on novel approaches or novel combinations of approaches. This is a particular challenge when the feature sizes approach the 10 nm range or beyond. The equipment developed should be capable of working accurately, reliably and reproducibly and it is intended to meet the performance and cost requirements at research laboratory level. Accordingly, the proposed projects should aim at developing tools, namely instruments and/or methods and/or their combination, including novel software both for measurement and analysis, and data handling - as appropriate. The projects should represent a clear step ahead of the state-of-the-art. Significant technical applications are on-line and off-line characterisation and operations at nanoscale e.g. characterisation and quantification of measure of novel functionalities and performance, handling and treatment of samples or positioning at atomic level. Funding scheme: Collaborative projects targeted to SMEs Specific features: SME dedicated collaborative projects are specifically designed to encourage SME participation in research and innovation representing the complete value added of the targeted fields. Research and innovation activities need to be covered by the projects. In each project, at least 35% of the EC contribution is expected to be allocated to the participating SMEs. The projects will be led by SMEs with R&D capacities but the coordinator does not need to be an SME. The participating SMEs should have the decision making power in the project management. The output should be for the benefit of the participating SMEs and the targeted SME dominated industrial communities. Additional activities other than research could be included as appropriate, such as metrology, pre- and co-normative activities like the development of (certified) reference materials, safety issues, specific education modules or the analysis of existing and required regulations. Expected impact: (i) New or improved equipment; (ii) support to the development of new nanotechnology-based products and industrial processes, to their tailoring of properties and reliability. [download PDF] 26 - NMP-2007-2.1-1 Nanostructured polymer-matrix composites full description click again to close Technical content / scope: Nanostructured composite materials are emerging as an area with great promise, in particular in the case of polymeric matrices having, for example, nanostructured clays and ceramics as fillers. These polymer nanocomposites exhibiting radically enhanced properties require a lower filler loading than composites using traditional fillers, resulting in markedly improved performance at a lower density. Major areas where research is required are the chemical interaction of nanofillers with the polymer host as well as the composite processing with uniform dispersion (e. g. in exfoliation) and the thermal stability of polymer nanocomposites using, for instance, layered silicates and carbon nanotubes or nanofibres as nanoinclusions. Approaches are expected to consider the combinations of matrices and potential reinforcing nanoelements with different chemistry, size, shape and properties, as well as the processing techniques, in order to obtain radically enhanced mechanical and physical performance, based on a thorough understanding of the fundamental mechanisms. Attention should also be paid to the life cycle analysis, to the safety issues related to the use of nanofillers, and to the cost effectiveness of the nanostructured composite materials in comparison to the materials currently used. Funding scheme: Large scale integrating collaborative projects. Special features: Industrial leadership is expected. This research area is particularly well suited for cooperation with Third Countries (e.g. United States, Russia, China, India). Expected impact: Nanostructured composites have the potential for enhanced product characteristics, such as improved thermal stability and fire retardancy, biocompatibility, increased mechanical strength and improved barrier properties for many industrial areas, including the biomedical, optoelectronics, construction, maritime and automotive sectors, where improved performance at a reduced cost and weight are important. [download PDF] 22 - NMP-2007-1.1-1 Nano-scale mechanisms of bio/non-bio interactions full description click again to close Technical content / scope: A better understanding of the interactions between biological entities and nanostructures is of central importance for functionalised materials and systems such as the development of active surfaces with adapted biocompatibility, improved amalgamation in heterogeneous materials, effective industrial processes, etc. The objective will be to explore the interaction mechanisms at the nano-scale between biological systems and nanostructures (including surfaces). The expected projects should foresee upstream interdisciplinary research on nanostructures which induce specific behaviour on contact with biological systems and explore the interaction with and effect on these biological systems. The expected projects should pave the way for future industrial application by enabling the design of structures which interact in a predictable and controllable way with biological systems; thereby improving performance of industrial processes (e.g. biocide surfaces for industrial or clinical use, medical devices, functionalised packaging, technical and medical textiles, bioresponsive materials, etc.). The expected projects should combine experimental and theoretical work such as modelling of the basic processes and functional units, as appropriate. Funding scheme: Small or medium-scale focused research projects Specific features: Consortia could include users. Expected impact: (i) Solutions going well beyond the state of the art; (ii) substantial innovation in industry and perspectives for new products with higher added value in various sectoral applications (e.g. marine industry, construction, energy production, medical and hygiene applications, textiles, etc.); (iii) medium-long term innovation in industrial processes (e.g. food industry or waste management). [download PDF] 22 - NMP-2007-1.1-2 Self-assembling and self-organisation full description click again to close Technical content / scope: Self-organisation is a very promising approach, in particular regarding cost-effective up-scaling. Of central importance for applications are structures with controlled properties over multiple scales, multi-component structures, and the connection of self-ordered systems with conventionally produced structures and functions. The objective will be to achieve systems with predictable and controllable properties in particular composition and physico-chemical structure. The expected collaborative projects should foresee research for the development of nanostructures by self-assembling and self-organisation aimed at motifs capable of generating new functionalities. Understanding the underlying processes of self-organisation and their application to the bottom-up design of structures/materials, in particular with regard to multi-scale and multi-component self-organising systems, should be a main topic of the activities (including appropriate computer modelling). Combining self-organisation with other methods for controlled structuring must be part of the exploration of concepts for future application. Funding scheme: Small or medium-scale focused research projects Specific features: Consortia could include users. Expected impact: (i) Solutions going well beyond the state of the art; (ii)substantial innovation in industrial processes, such as chemistry, optics or electronics; (iii) more added value and/or lower production costs; (iv) innovative industrial ways contributing to sustainable production and development. [download PDF] 16 - NMP-2007-2.2-2 Nanostructured materials with tailored magnetic properties full description click again to close Technical content/scope: Magneto-opto-electronics is an emerging field with radically new technologies that exploit the electron charge as well as the magnetism of its spin for the realisation of novel devices. Understanding magnetic phenomena in the nanoregime and their coupling to optical and electronic phenomena is still in its infancy, but presents a huge potential for the information society. Research should deliver solutions beyond the current state-of-the-art in technology areas such as spintronics, magnetic data storage/processing, photonics and sensors for medical applications. The nanostructured materials targeted include molecular nanomagnets, magnetic nanoparticles, complex geometries like core-shell structures, engineered highly polarized spin sources, systems where the manipulation of magnetization is carried out by electric fields, current, or light, magnetoresistive or magnetostrictive materials and diluted magnetic semiconductors. Funding scheme: Small or medium-scale focused research projects. Special features: Industrial participation is required. Expected impacts: Relevance in technological fields like magnetic data storage and processing, scanners, spintronics, photonics, sensors for medical and other applications. [download PDF] 16 - NMP-2007-2.5-1 Novel materials tailored for extreme conditions and environments full description click again to close Technical content/scope: Materials especially tailored for extreme conditions and environments, which are resistant to very high or very low temperatures, radiation, high pressures, high electromagnetic fields, damaging chemical reactions such as corrosive or oxidizing environments, biodegradation, or several of these conditions at the same time, are becoming increasingly important in a variety of industrial fields. Research should focus on radical innovations in the properties and processing of bulk or surface treated materials designed for extreme environments, based on an enhanced understanding of materials degradation. Composite materials, metallic materials, and engineering ceramics need further development, but also new alternatives are sought for wide industrial applications (e.g. turbines, engines, aerospace and maritime applications, machinery, sensors and the chemical industry). Funding scheme: Large scale integrating collaborative projects. Special features: In line with the objectives of this topic, adequate industrial participation is recommended. Expected impact - Novel materials for extreme environments can offer increased durability of surfaces and products (e.g. in energy production, chemical or petrochemical industry and aerospace applications), contributing to a decrease in the risk of industrial hazards and an increase in safety. Step changes in the understanding of materials degradation mechanisms in extreme environments are expected. [download PDF] 14 - NMP-2007-4.0-1 Advanced wood-based composites and their production full description click again to close Technical content / scope: The market price on standard technology wood-based products is increasingly driven by low labour cost countries that have short timber harvesting cycles. The difference in production costs is so significant that improving production efficiency is not sufficient alone to maintain the competitiveness of the European forest-based industry. A strategy for success is to develop new high added value products produced by new resource efficient production concepts. Wood as a natural and abundant composite can form the basis for a completely new industry based on intelligent recombination of specific physical properties such as heat insulation, conductivity and mechanical strength and shape in engineered wood products (EWP). For example, replacing lignin with silicon, geofiller or ceramics in the wood nano-structure, chemical grafting of cellulose or environmentally friendly chemical densification can yield radically new product properties. New wood and bio-fiber polymer composites (e.g. transformation of wood fibres and thermoplastic resins into wood polymer composites throughout plastic processing, injection moulding, extrusion or pultrusion) show high potential for construction, furniture and packaging applications. The ambitious research objectives include adaptive production concepts for new composites based on wood fibres, cellulose, lignin, or hemicelluloses, and their derivatives; manufacturing technologies such as moulding, shaping, compounding, melt blowing and electro-spinning; new manufacturing methods for sheet structures and converting operations that enable paper to replace non-renewable materials; engineering concepts for cellulose processing, e.g. melting and solid-state processing. Funding scheme: Large-scale integrating collaborative projects Specific features: In line with the objectives of this topic, adequate industrial participation is recommended. Although this is not a dedicated SME topic, a significant SME participation is nevertheless expected. Expected impact: The expected strategic impacts include: (1) placing sustainability at the forefront of cost control and competitive advantage as well as emphasising its role in industry's social responsibility, and (2) addressing Health and Safety issues for both the worker and the consumer through promotion of intrinsically better technologies. More specifically, funded proposals are collectively expected to develop several new product families based on new production concepts that exploit the potential of wood-based composites across a variety of applications in the health, electronics and food sectors, as well as in the fields of construction, furniture, packaging, speciality papers, vehicles and textiles. [download PDF] 14 - NMP-2007-2.2-1 Organic materials for electronics and photonics full description click again to close Technical content/scope: Organic materials are starting to release their huge potential in the electronics and photonics industry. New developments in polymer based electronics and photonics (e.g. flexible display technology and lighting), and related photovoltaic innovations, rely to a large extent on new organic materials development. Research should focus on enhancing the materials performance and, in particular, on enabling further progress on low cost processing and large area challenges. Projects should aim at the development of nanostructured organic multifunctional materials with tailored electronic, optical and sensing properties, to be used in applications such as flexible organic devices for electronic labels, electronic paper, optoelectronic devices, light emitting diodes, solar cells, displays and stimuli-responsive materials (sensors and actuators). In particular, controlling the structure of materials at the nanometer scale is important to increase carrier mobility, spectral (emission and absorption) tuning, interface matching, life-time improvement and reliability. Material processing technologies warranting attention include patterning, multilayering, self-assembly, molecular separation and recognition, vapour growth techniques, selective laser treatment, and deposition at surfaces and interfaces leading to low cost and low temperature solutions (e.g. soft-lithography, dip-pen lithography, self-assembled monolayers and molecular imprinting). Funding scheme: Large-scale integrating collaborative projects Special features: In line with the objectives of this topic, adequate industrial participation is recommended. Expected Impacts: Competitiveness of the electronics and photonics industry, for example utilising the potential of roll-to-roll technologies for processing large areas. The development of cost effective organic electronic and photonic devices competitive in performance to alternative technologies is expected. Developments in photovoltaics for energy applications would also bring, for instance, an increase in efficiency and improvement in stability, e.g. by controlling self-thermal degradation. [download PDF] 12 - NMP-2007-1.3-1 Specific, easy-to-use portable devices for measurement and analysis full description click again to close Technical content / scope: Risk assessment is based on appropriate characterisation of materials, hazard and monitoring and assessment of exposure. At present, there are few relevant studies on exposure to engineered nanoparticles, but it is believed that the greatest potential for human exposure over the next few years will be in the workplace. Gathering relevant and objective data on real exposure by allowing for background distinction at the workplace for industrial processes (e.g. production of nanoparticles, particularly when present in aerosols) represents a challenge and needs the development of appropriate personal measurement systems. The objective of the expected collaborative projects would be to develop and validate affordable, portable, adequate sampling and measurement equipments for monitoring working environments (i.e. quantification and characterisation of airborne nanoparticles in particular). These devices and methodologies for routine and non-routine exposure measurements should show an adequate degree of specificity, accuracy, user-friendliness and moderate production costs and produce data suitable for their use in exposure modelling systems. Funding scheme: Large scale integrating collaborative projects Specific features: Additional activities other than research should be included as appropriate, such as safety issues, specific education modules or the analysis of existing and required regulations. In line with the objectives of this topic, adequate industrial and SME participation is recommended. Expected impact: (i) Safety of new nano-materials and -systems, and of nanotechnology-based products and services; (ii) safe and cost-effective minimisation of the exposure of workers when manufacturing nano-scale entities; (iii) sustainable and responsible development; (iv) support to research and regulation; (v) implementation of the European Commission's Action Plan for Nanotechnology. [download PDF] 12 - NMP-2007-2.2-3 Advanced material architectures for energy conversion full description click again to close Technical content/scope: The development of new energy converters (solar, thermo-electrical, electrochemical) involves increasingly complex material architectures in order to control, in particular, the specific surface area, porosity, reactivity, cyclability and durability of such devices. Research should aim at radically new materials and synthesis approaches based upon the control of complex architectures, e. g. made with quantum dots, nanocomposites, thin-films, mesoporous 3-D architectures, carbon and inorganic nanotubes, aerogels and ionogels. The materials developed should provide improved efficiency and competitive cost/efficiency ratios for example in applications for supercapacitors, stacks, solar cells and high performance batteries. Funding scheme: Small or medium-scale focused research projects. Special features: Industrial participation is required. Expected impact: The complex architectures developed should have the potential to be integrated into functional devices (e.g. stacks, super-capacitors, solar-cells and batteries). [download PDF] 11 - NMP-2007-1.2-1 Pilot lines to study, develop and up-scale nanotechnology-based processes from laboratory full description click again to close Technical content/scope: The transfer of promising nanotechnology research results into new industrial technologies still represents a bottleneck. The expected projects should be focused on the scale-up of innovative nanotechnology-based and laboratory-scale processes to pilot-line-scale for industrial application. The expected projects should include appropriate modelling to design and predict processes and production lines. The goal is thus to facilitate the transfer from laboratory-scale activities to larger scale processes that would open the way for industrial production lines thereby enhancing European competitiveness. Economic aspects of the proposals are therefore crucial and possible solutions should present a strong link to market needs. The projects could include an assessment regarding public health and consumer protection, occupational safety and the environment, as well as an evaluation of impacts on regulation. Funding scheme: Large-scale integrating collaborative projects Specific features: Additional activities other than research could be included as appropriate, such as metrology for online monitoring and control, safety issues, specific education modules or the analysis of existing and required regulations. If appropriate, accompanying life cycle assessment (LCA) studies should be performed according to ISO 14040ff and the data should be provided according to data format and quality requirements set up by the European Platform for LCA (http://lca.jrc.ec.europa.eu). In line with the objectives of this topic, adequate industrial participation is recommended. Expected impact: (i) Solutions going well beyond the state-of-the-art; (ii) stimulation and acceleration of the industrial take-up of promising results beyond laboratory scale; (iii) new competitive industrial processes; (iv) sustainable development. [download PDF] 11 - NMP-2007-4.0-4 Substantial innovation in the European medical industry: development of nanotechnology-based systems for in-vivo diagnosis and therapy (in coordination with topic HEALTH-2007-2.4.1-7 and HEALTH-2007-1.2-3 in Theme 1 Health) full description click again to close Technical content / scope: Within the objective of reinforcing the competitiveness of European industry addressing healthcare and/or medical equipment, proposals are called for with the aim of developing nanotechnology-based targeted delivery systems for in-vivo diagnosis and/or therapy for cardiovascular diseases or neurodegenerative conditions or cancer. They should demonstrate high specificity, efficacy, biocompatibility, and the capacity to cross biological barriers if needed. Where meaningful, research on the combination of diagnosis and therapy (theranostics) in multi purpose systems is encouraged. This call addresses only human healthcare. Activities should include tests of the in vitro and in vivo behaviour and the fate of the systems (including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion analysis, toxicity, allergic or inflammatory induced response, and biocompatibility), to fundamentally understand the behaviour and pharmacokinetics. Linked animal testing should be kept to the minimum needed and should be replaced by in vitro testing wherever possible. Strong industrial participation is encouraged. Funding scheme: Large scale integrating collaborative projects. Specific features: In line with the objectives of this topic, adequate industrial participation is recommended. Activities others than research could be included as appropriate, such as specific education modules, pre- and co-normative activities, or the analysis of existing and required regulations. Gender issues should be considered, where appropriate. Expected impact: (i) Better and more reliable diagnostics and/or therapy; (ii) delivery of improved health care to citizens and/or livestock; (iii) increased competitiveness of European industry in this high value added and fast growing field. [download PDF] 10 - NMP-2007-2.4-2 Nanostructured catalysts with tailor-made functional surfaces full description click again to close Technical content/scope: Innovative sustainable chemical processes having higher energy efficiency and ideally 100% selectivity, require the development of a new generation of catalytic materials with tailored functionality at the surface. Interdisciplinary efforts including from advanced characterisation and modelling to reactivity and kinetics, are expected to enable the mastering of highly complex catalytic processes on the basis of a controlled sequence of surface reactions and of active sites. Structuring the catalyst in terms of nano-reactors and hierarchically organised nano-structures will allow control of the multiscale factors determining reactivity and exploring new functional properties. The focus should be on long term highly innovative research combining these aspects and able to integrate homo-, bio- and heterogeneous catalytic concepts to realise novel catalytic materials. Funding scheme: Small or medium-scale focused research projects. Special features: Industrial participation is required. Expected impact: Achieving zero-waste emissions, selective and highly efficient chemical reactions, new bio-mimicking catalytic transformations, new clean energy sources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving water and air quality are some of the challenges for the future. Overcoming these challenges will be of crucial importance for the environment, social and economic development and the future industrial competitiveness in Europe as more than 80 % of the processes in the chemical industry depend on catalytic technologies. The development of innovative sustainable chemical processes having higher energy efficiency and close to 100% selectivity is expected. [download PDF] 10 - NMP-2007-1.3-2 Risk assessment of engineered nanoparticles on health and the environment full description click again to close Technical content / scope: The understanding of the safety, environmental and human health implications of nanotechnology-based materials and products is important worldwide. Reinforced cooperation has been initiated on this matter with the USA and in particular between the European Commission and the USA Environmental Protection Agency. It is advantageous to share and harmonize the research effort to increase efficiency and prevent any duplication of effort, also since it addresses pre-competitive questions. This research will create a reliable and sound foundation for the assessment of the safety of nanotechnology-based products and encourage nanotechnological advances that can address the needs of citizens and contribute to sustainable development objectives. Projects under this call should be related to engineered nanoparticles and should address one or more topics in the following areas: hazard characterisation, exposure, toxicology, main endpoints of and health effects of engineered nanoparticles; testing; monitoring/detection of engineered nanoparticles in the various environments (excluding the development of equipment); environmental and biological fate, transport, and transformation of nanoparticles. The interdisciplinary research should contribute to better understanding of toxicokinetics, cellular and molecular mechanisms, behaviour and fate, bio-persistence, biokinetics, to understand fundamentally the exposure, behaviour, mechanisms, consequences and potential effects to various endpoints of nanoparticle-biological entities interactions. Funding scheme: Small or medium-scale focused research projects Specific features: Cooperation with the USA research teams is strongly recommended, possibly through balanced participation EU-USA in each project. EU funding for US participants is not foreseen within the present call. Gender issues should be considered, where appropriate. Expected impact: (i) Better in vitro or in vivo methodologies for the regulatory demands for the safety assessment of nanotechnology products, (ii) better understanding of the impact of the nanoparticles on health, safety and the environment; (iii) future definition of appropriate measures, where needed; (iv) safe and cost-effective minimisation of the exposure of workers; (iv) sustainable and responsible development; (v) support to research and regulation; (vi) implementation of the European Commission's Action Plan for Nanotechnology; (vii) reinforcement of the international dimension of European research within the 7th Framework Programme. [download PDF] 8 - NMP-2007-4.0-2 Application of new materials including bio-based fibres in high-added value textile products full description click again to close Technical content / scope: Intensified research and development efforts, especially from the SME segment of the textiles industry, are required for reinforcing Europe's leadership in the technical textiles field and for establishing the EU as the global lead market for application of innovative textile products. Enhanced fibre properties are the key for improving the properties of these new products and applications in terms of weight performance ratios, strength, durability, flexibility, bio-degradability, energy-efficiency, insulation, temperature and moisture management, permeability, self-cleaning and self-healing. The new materials targeted by the topic are based on natural and bio-based fibres, speciality fibres and fibre-composites. The research should concentrate on bulk fibres with new or significantly improved properties, novel fibres with tailored functionalities for special applications, natural fibres and bio-based fibres; new processing and production concepts include the development of environmentally friendly and energy-efficient processing and surface modification of fibres, yarns and fabrics to enhance manufacturing of textile- and composite-based innovative products. Deliverables will include the fibre innovation itself, the development of new products and application areas and competitive new processing and production concepts. The main application areas targeted are transport systems, energy systems, agri- and aquaculture, food and packaging applications, machines and other durable equipment, sports and leisure, furniture, home textiles and other similar consumer application sectors. Funding scheme: Collaborative projects targeted to SMEs Specific features: SME dedicated collaborative projects are specifically designed to encourage SME participation in research and innovation representing the complete value added of the targeted sectors. Research and innovation activities need to be covered by the projects. In each project, at least 35% of the EC contribution is expected to be allocated to the participating SMEs. The projects will be led by SMEs with R&D capacities but the coordinator does not need to be an SME. The participating SMEs should have the decision making power in the project management. The output should be for the benefit of the participating SMEs and the targeted SME dominated industrial communities. Smart textiles with embedded systems such as sensors and actuators as well as developments with the main applications in building and construction, medical and protective clothing domains are excluded from this call. Expected impact: The expected strategic impacts include: (1) promoting Innovation and the ability of European Textile SMEs to use the results of research; (2) founding market competitiveness on knowledge and added value through highly specific customisation to address specific high-tech markets ideally suited to European Textile high-tech SMEs. More specifically, replacement of currently used traditional textile and non-textile materials in the targeted application areas by at least 20% and an acceleration of currently projected growth rates for technical textile application areas by at least 10% over the next 5 to 10 years. [download PDF] 8 - NMP-2007-2.3-1 Highly porous bioactive scaffolds controlling angiogenesis for tissue engineering full description click again to close Technical content/scope: In recent years biomaterials based on porous scaffolds have proved to be effective for bone and cartilage regeneration, showing that they are very promising for medical applications, in particular in the treatment of spinal disorders. However, existing biomaterials are not able to control cell differentiation and to achieve angiogenesis and cannot be adequately injected into the body. Therefore, there is the need to design highly porous but structurally sound bioresorbable tissue-engineered scaffolds able to be functionalized and to have direct influence on cells behaviour. Bioactive scaffolds are also required for the engineering of other complex tissues (e.g. nervous, ocular, visceral, nephrological-urological, vascular). The focus should be on advanced bioactive scaffolds enabling internal growth of tissue and the site specific delivery of bioactive signalling factors (temperature, pH, concentration, internal stimuli, etc). The approaches are expected to include  FP7 Cooperation Work Programme: NMP Page 23 of 54 issues such as delivery devices (e.g. injection), remodelling of large bone defects and improved tissue-biomaterial interfaces . Funding scheme: Large scale integrating collaborative projects. Special features: In line with the objectives of this topic, adequate industrial participation is recommended. Expected impact: Medical applications (bones, joints, blood vessels etc.) improving health and quality of life, using biomaterials which are able to control cell differentiation and can be successfully injected into the body. Competitiveness of the European biomaterials industry. [download PDF] 7 - NMP-2007-1.1-4 Development of methodology, collection and elaboration of scientific-technical and socio-economic data and studies on nanosciences and nanotechnologies, including risk assessment, and establishment of an observatory full description click again to close Technical content/scope: Investment in nanotechnology is rising in Europe as well as worldwide. As for all technologies, "limits" and "risks" need to be addressed. Stakeholders need reliable and complete data in order to take decisions such as for the allocation of funding, regulations or other initiatives. With this support action an observatory should be established, appropriate methodology developed, data collected and analysed so as to provide European decision makers with state-of-the-art analyses as well as dynamic assessments of nanotechnology development and use, allowing stakeholders to understand levels of success and critical issues, and to take actions. The expected support action could include networking of existing national activities and/or centres, and address: research and relevant economic activities of countries and organisations with a focus on comparing the European Research Area with other significant regions of the world; strategies and trends of research in nanotechnology not under public funding; nanotechnology infrastructures in respect to their availability and accessibility in Europe; market data and market potential in nanotechnology and nanotechnological sub-areas, including products and sectors involved; road-mapping; economic and social impact of nanotechnology, including consideration of needs for science-based communication. A roadmap of actions, actors and timing could also be developed with the view of achieving a "safe and responsible" level of competitiveness for the European nanotechnology-based industry. When appropriate, possible best practices should be identified. A balanced "governing board" encompassing with equilibrium representatives of all main EU stakeholders should be established. This action should take into account relevant existing and ongoing activities, and be complementary to them. A user-friendly and inter-operable database that links together the different pieces of information should be created so as to allow cross analyses and comprehensive overviews. . It should also aim at integrating or linking, where appropriate, relevant data available from other sources, such as specific databases on the impact of nanotechnology on public health, occupational safety, and the environment. Funding scheme: Coordination and support actions aiming at supporting research activities. Specific features: The indicative duration of this action should be 4 years. Maximum grant: € 4 million. Only one observatory and support action will be funded. Gender issues should be considered and gender-specific data should be produced, where possible. Expected impact: (i) Support to the European Commission and the EU Member States decision making procedures; (ii) support to actions and work of all stakeholders: researchers, industrialists, investors and the "civil society"; (iii) orientation for the appropriateness for dedicated European infrastructures and the possible interest of creating poles of excellence in well identified subjects; (iv) sustainable development; (v) support to good governance in nanotechnology; (vi) implementation of the European Commission's Action Plan for Nanotechnology. [download PDF] 7 - NMP-2007-1.2-4 Coordination in nanometrology full description click again to close Technical content/scope: Nanosciences and nanotechnologies are rapidly growing on the one hand due to their great potential in terms of developing new products and processes, and on the other hand due to the continuous development of analytical and manipulation equipment that make operating at the nano-scale possible. However, challenges are also great, in particular since many researchers and industries are involved, and precision, accuracy, repeatability and reproducibility of measurement, analysis and methods are not yet reliably consolidated. A Europe-wide effort is therefore required bringing together interested leading centres. This will allow precious synergy to be achieved in Europe and valuable output for the scientific and industrial communities. This coordination action should address the identification and co-ordination of top-class activities carried out in Europe in the field on nanometrology and particularly for the (i) characterisation of reactions, materials, mechanisms, structures and systems at the nano-level, and (ii) performance assessment and improvement of methodology, operational praxis and use of equipment. Aspects focusing on measuring health, safety and environmental impact of nanotechnology do not need to be specifically considered within this coordination action. Further issues such as nomenclature, specific metrology, harmonisation work and pre-normative research for potential standards, (certified) reference materials, intellectual property rights should be addressed, as well as dedicated education and training, and the service to industry and particularly to SMEs. This action should take into account relevant existing and ongoing activities, and be complementary to them. Funding scheme: Coordination and support actions aiming at coordinating research activities. Specific features: Collaboration with CEN TC 352 is encouraged and appropriate exchange of information at international level may also be considered. Expected impact: (i) Capacity building in Europe in nanometrology; (ii) improved reliability of measurement and analysis at the nano-level; (iii) support to the development of new nanotechnology-based products and industrial processes, to their reliability, safety and future commercialisation on the global market; (iv) support to research and regulation; (v) sustainable development; (vi) implementation of the European Commission's Action Plan for Nanotechnology; (vii) elements relevant to establishing the creation of one (or more) leading pole(s) of excellence that will be able to support industrial activities, in particular benefiting high-tech SMEs. [download PDF] 6 - NMP-2007-3.5-1 Processes and equipment for high quality industrial production of 3-dimensional nanosurfaces full description click again to close Technical content / scope: The objective is to up-scale and stabilise "surface functionalisation" processes with respect to throughput, yield, quality and cost efficiency. The focus is on 3-dimensional nanostructuring at the surface or the fabrication of surface structures with typical dimensions or phases smaller than 100nm on various solid materials, e.g. metals, ceramics, glasses, semiconductors and polymers. The structure can be topographical, presenting designed nanostructures (e.g. pores, pillars, gratings) tailored for a specific application resulting in outstanding properties, and may also involve coatings having phase modulations, crystal sizes, embedded particles in the mentioned range. Technology convergence of top down and bottom up for new hybrid methods of manufacturing may be envisaged. The research activities should focus on increasing the quality/reliability of the structuring processes (e.g. polymer self-assembly, sol-gel texturation, lithography and etching, moulding, hot embossing imprint, high velocity spraying, laser based coating, PVD, PE-CVD) supported by the joint co-development of appropriate quality measures, including surface characterization equipments and procedures, online control and online control systems. Deliverables should include systematic material design, conception and design of production equipments, contamination control and quality assurance. Funding scheme: Large-scale integrating collaborative projects Specific features: Priority will be given to proposals considering the holistic, clean manufacturing system and should clearly demonstrate how nanosurfaces can be processed to a high quality by nanostructuring and coating. Consortia should be supported by the relevant end-user groups in the nano-micro-manufacturing value chain. Expected impact: A clear strategic contribution to establishing a European high value added nano-manufacturing industry is expected. New, cost efficient production methods will improve/extend the lifetime and quality of products in high market value segments in industries such as aeronautics, automotive, space, electronics, energy and off-shore deep-sea. [download PDF] 6 - NMP-2007-1.3-3 Scientific review of the data and studies on the potential impact of engineered nano-particles on health, safety and the environment full description click again to close Technical content / scope: Data on environment, safety and health effects of engineered nanoparticles need to be periodically reviewed in order to exploit the results and duly orient future research and risk management actions. In particular, a focus on nanomaterials that are likely to be produced and used in higher quantities is needed. Specific attention should be paid to carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic (CMR) properties, as well as problematic properties for the environment (like persistence or bioaccumulation). The support action(s) should collect and assess published scientific and technical data, perform a critical review to provide a state-of-the-art overview of current knowledge, produce detailed report(s) on the toxicological profiles and identify remaining uncertainties. Dynamic processes could also be considered e.g. agglomeration or de-agglomeration and other unintended reactions or interactions with surrounding media. The nanoparticles addressed with the present call are: (i) fullerene and derivates, (ii) nanotubes and derivates, (iii) metals and (iv) oxides. Conclusions should be drawn and recommendations should be issued, for research or for other initiatives. Funding scheme: Coordination and support actions aiming at supporting research activities. Specific features: Maximum duration: 12 months. Consortia are encouraged to be multidisciplinary, including expertise in areas of toxicology and eco-toxicology. Gender issues should be considered, where appropriate. Expected impact: (i) Better understanding of the impact of nanoparticles on health and the environment, and definition of future actions; (ii) sustainable and responsible development.; (iii) support to research and (iv) support to regulatory measures and implementation of legislation. [download PDF] 6 - NMP-2007-2.5-2 Modelling of microstructural evolution under work conditions and in materials processing full description click again to close Technical content/scope: Modelling of material performance has nowadays become a very powerful tool, complementing experimental research. The simulation of the microstructural evolution of materials properties and phenomena that determine the macroscopic material response under working conditions and during materials synthesis and processing (e.g. in hot deformation, mixing, injection moulding, filament processing, laser processing, near to shape production) can enable the achievement of major improvements in materials design and life cycle assessment. Modelling approaches are expected to build on the link between microstructural evolution and specific macroscopic material properties and take advantage of the new multi-scale approaches. Essential reduction of costs and energy consumption for new materials development and industrial processing is expected. The experimental validation of the modelling approaches is also expected to be part of the projects. Funding scheme: Small or medium-scale focused research projects. Special features: Industrial participation is required. This research area is particularly well suited for cooperation with Third Countries (e.g. United States, Russia, China, India). Expected impact: Increase of the competitiveness of European industry, by developing validated predictive models aimed at reducing the efforts required for the development of new materials, including newly emerging nanostructured materials, for flexible production of knowledge-based products. [download PDF] 5 - NMP-2007-1.1-3 Support to networking ICPC3 researchers in nanotechnology and creation of a free and open electronic archive of nanosciences and nanotechnologies scientific and technical publications full description click again to close Technical content/scope: The European Commission aims to avoid that a number of countries are put in the factual impossibility of profiting from the benefits of nanotechnology. The EC strategy puts the "nano divide" as a target to address and reduce. The expected support action should select and present scientific and technical publications of nanosciences and nanotechnologies (made completely accessible or referred to) in an open and freely accessible database. User-friendly tools for text mining, including support for effective use, could be considered as well as a system of cross links. Access and information about updates and important news should preferably be provided via an existing and well established European website. This electronic archive should be organised to allow partner search and networking amongst researchers and stakeholders in ICPC (International Co-operation Partner Countries) so as to facilitate research in nanotechnology and related activities such as education or the application of research results. Networking with European researchers is encouraged in order to facilitate the inclusion of researchers from ICPC in the FP7 calls concerning nanotechnology. Funding scheme: Coordination and support actions aiming at supporting research activities. Specific features: Cooperation with ICPC is encouraged. The main elements should be in existence within 12 months and the archive should be made available for general access. It should be regularly updated within a FP7 Cooperation Work Programme: NMP total indicative duration for this action of 4 years. Only one electronic archive support action will be funded. The consideration of gender issues is encouraged, where appropriate. Expected impact: (i) Dissemination of selected high quality information in countries where nanotechnology is not yet developed; (ii) networking amongst researchers; (iii) fight against the "nano divide"; (iv) inclusivity in the research and development in nanotechnology; (v) sustainable development; (vi) implementation of the European Commission's Action Plan forNanosciences and Nanotechnologies; (vii) reinforcement of the international dimension of European research within the 7th Framework Programme; (viii) improved knowledge of the FP7 in ICPC and facilitation of their participation in further calls for proposals. [note] 3 ICPC: International Cooperation Partner Country (see list in Annex 1) [download PDF] 4 - NMP-2007-1.2-3 Analysis of the ethical, regulatory, social and economic environment of nanomedicine full description click again to close Technical content / scope: Nanotechnology will have a large impact on medicine and will add a new dimension to many ethical, regulatory, social and economic issues in this area. This support action should make a survey of existing relevant documents in the field, analyse the implications above looking at mid to long-term impacts of nanomedicine and foresee scenarios on the possible consequences for the citizens, society, economics and social structures, including costs of future health care (foresight). A "round table" involving scientists, experts on ethical, regulatory, social and economic issues, patient groups, regulatory agencies, health insurance, policy makers and company representatives should be established based upon existing activities. With a view of contributing to future strategic decisions responsive to the needs of all stakeholders, the round table will help to define the requirements of the patient and society as well as the regulatory, social and targeted communication frameworks, which will be an important requirement for successfully introducing new nanomedical innovations to the market. Conclusions should be drawn and recommendations should be issued. Funding scheme: Coordination and support actions aiming at supporting research activities. Specific features: Maximum duration: 12 months. Gender issues should be considered. Expected impact: (i) Support to stakeholders' decision making concerning nanomedicine: public authorities, industry, researchers and citizens; (ii) support to good governance in nanotechnology; (iii) support to the safe, integrated and responsible approach as laid down in "Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies: An action plan for Europe". [download PDF] 4 - NMP-2007-1.3-4 Creation of a critical and commented database on the health, safety and environmental impact of nanoparticles full description click again to close Technical content / scope: A free access database (including tools) established at European level is needed to allow a comprehensive analysis of published data. This support action aims at creating a database on environment and health effect, which should include physicochemical characterization and properties of nanomaterials, explosion risks, hazard information like acute and chronic toxicity, toxicokinetics, ecotoxicity, bioaccumulation, exposure information throughout the life cycle of nanomaterials, environmental fate of nanoparticles, results from in vitro studies (such as cell and tissue penetration, potential circulatory effects, mutagenicity and genotoxicity, where the case), in vivo studies and occupational epidemiological studies. The database should be useful to identify potential risks with nanomaterials for workers, consumers or public at large. It should contain structured information from research papers and provide tools for text mining,. The database could serve the needs of users with different profiles (general public, scientific community, regulators) and also contain a collection of research papers with their metadata (paper source, authors, date, etc.). The database should be at European level and allow integration with other European related databases such as those related to chemicals, food or pharmaceutical and medical products. Moreover, it could also serve as interface with similar non-EU databases. A balanced "governing board" encompassing representatives of all main EU stakeholders should be established. Activities should take into account existing and ongoing EU projects of a similar nature, and be complementary to them or based upon them. Access to the database and consolidated information of the results of the analyses, updates and methodology should be provided appropriately. Funding scheme: Coordination and support actions aiming at supporting research activities. Only one database and support action will be funded. Specific features: Main elements should be created within 12 months and the database should be made available. It should be regularly updated within a total indicative duration for this action of 4 years. Activities should take into account existing and ongoing relevant initiatives involving the creation of databases. Gender issues should be considered, where appropriate. Expected impact: (i) Better understanding of the impact of nanoparticles on health and the environment, and definition of future actions; (ii) safe and responsible development and use of nanotechnology; (iii) support to research and regulation; (iv) support to regulatory measures and implementation of legislation; (v) implementation of the European Commission's Action Plan for Nanotechnology; (vi) support to good governance in nanotechnology. [download PDF] 4 - NMP-2007-4.0-3 Multifunctional materials for future vehicles full description click again to close Technical content/scope: The design, processing and a more intelligent use of new multifunctional materials, together with improvements in production technologies, are essential in order to combine mobility, sustainability, reliability and safety in future light vehicle design and manufacturing. High added value components with improved performance and tailored properties would strengthen in particular the competitiveness of the automotive industry. These new multifunctional materials, developed in particular with the help of modelling methods, would combine classical with new properties, such as self healing of damage caused by abrasion and wear, variable strength or sensor properties, may contain micro-encapsulated inclusions and would be able to self-adapt their range of properties depending on the requirements during application. A sensing functionality of self-healing materials should enable them to sense their internal state and their external environment, so that they can detect their healthiness or their reduced functionality at specific locations and trigger the self-healing mechanisms. Multifunctional materials should also allow the triggering of safety mechanisms, e.g. based upon the state of the driver. New high performance materials and components should be investigated that contain an inherent ability to be active and reactive through the integration of sensors or actuators (e.g. active materials inside matrix materials, touch sensitive plastics, biodegradable parts with slow surface and fast core). Funding scheme: Large-scale integrating collaborative projects. Specific features: Industry participation is essential and SME participation is encouraged. Expected impact: Maintaining the competitiveness of the automotive and other transport industries. Multifunctional, high performance materials should be developed that can adapt their range of properties depending upon their requirements during application, for example in self-healing (abrasion or wear). These high performance materials should be developed at acceptable costs to allow incorporation into vehicle development and maintain worldwide competitiveness of European transport industries. [download PDF] 4 - NMP-2007-2.4-3 Renewable materials for functional packaging applications full description click again to close Technical content / scope: Innovative renewable materials (e. g. wood or vegetable based) and their ecoefficient processing are required to provide novel entirely-renewable functional packaging solutions for a global market. Important drivers for innovation using life-cycle approaches in these renewable packaging materials are cost reduction, improved functionality, higher flexibility and prolonged shelf life of packaged consumer goods like seafood by improved barrier (e.g. active, antimicrobial, permselective, intelligent adaptive) performance. Smart features such as displays or sensors can be incorporated into packaging materials using ink and printing technologies that allow for low production costs. The focus should be on the design and processing of innovative, renewable packaging materials as well as on the interactions between different types of renewable materials, e.g. in multilayer packaging, using the latest developments in nanotechnology. Special emphasis should be put on material performance (e.g. functionality, surface strength, moldability, chemical and microbiological safety, biodegradability, hydrostability, moisture resistance and microbiological immunity). Materials processing should display low emissions, reduce the use of chemicals, but enhance the use of "green" biotechnological alternatives in the manufacture and treatment of packaging materials and printing inks. Funding scheme: Small or medium-scale focused research projects. Special features: Industrial participation is required. Expected impact(s): From product storage and distribution to waste disposal and environmental degradation of packaging materials. Packaging is a high volume business close to the consumer where demands for a sustainable transformation will continue to increase. A contribution towards the overall target of reducing greenhouse gases and the dependency on petroleum resources is expected. [download PDF] 4 - NMP-2007-2.4-1 Flexible efficient processing for polymers full description click again to close Technical content/scope: Increasing energy and raw material costs are changing the worldwide market for polymeric materials and for plastic processing. Alternatives to current plastic processing, e.g. involving natural feed stocks, are expected to become increasingly competitive. Flexible polymer processing using energy efficient curing methods (e.g. microwaves) and a diversity of raw materials are essential for radical innovation in the sector. New processing methods for speciality polymers which are radically more cost efficient because of resource savings are also required. The projects should focus on finding flexible and energy-efficient processing approaches with a smart use of materials (saving resources and tailored to the application) in an environmentally friendly manner. Research is needed on highly energy efficient processes (e.g. integrating treatment, compounding, cleansing and processing, precise microprocessing with lasers) and use of alternative energy sources for plastics processing and polymeric materials (e.g. UV, microwave, optical microprocessing). Polymer nanocomposite processing is excluded. Funding scheme: Collaborative projects targeted to SMEs. Special features: SME dedicated collaborative projects are specifically designed to encourage SME participation in research and innovation representing the complete value added of the targeted fields. Research and innovation activities need to be covered by the projects. In each project, at least 35% of the EC contribution is expected to be allocated to the participating SMEs. The projects will be led by SMEs with R&D capacities but the coordinator does not need to be an SME. The participating SMEs should have the decision making power in the project management. The output should be for the benefit of the participating SMEs and the targeted SME dominated industrial communities. Expected impacts: In today's global market, polymer processing in Europe needs to be highly efficient and flexible to keep up with competition from other parts of the world and the pressures on supply of energy and raw material resources. New polymer processing methods, e.g. using natural feed stocks and renewable resources, are expected to be developed that are cost effective and require a smaller amount of resources. [download PDF] 3 - NMP-2007-1.1-5 ERANET Plus in nanosciences (This topic is subject to a joint call for ERA-NETs across the Themes. For further information see Annex 4.) full description click again to close Technical content/scope: New development in nanotechnologies relies heavily on fundamental research in nanosciences. Future applications of nanotechnologies will emerge thanks to the understanding of the "nano-world" that nanosciences are presently developing through extensive exploratory fundamental research. The aim of the ERANET Plus project is to pool the necessary financial resources from the participating national (or regional) research programmes and the Community with a view to launching a joint call for proposals for basic research projects in nanosciences that will be evaluated and managed jointly by the participating programmes. The joint call should be planned with a clear focus on the interdisciplinary nature of nanosciences as well as on the added value deriving from the cooperation at transnational level. The proposals submitted to the joint call shall be evaluated according to a common peer review evaluation mechanism. A fixed set of broader evaluation criteria (including excellence and European added value) shall be included in the set of common criteria to be defined by the participants. Thematic focusing of this joint call should be commensurate with the funds available, so as to ensure a reasonable rate of success in the call. Details on the topics covered by the call will be decided by the participants in due time but shall be selected upon consultation with the Commission services concerned. Topics should be wide enough to allow for interdisciplinary collaborations and, for example, could relate to the fabrication, characterization, study and use of individual nano-objects applied to the study of cellular processes. Funding scheme: Coordination and support actions. This ERANET Plus action will be supported through Coordination and Support Actions. The Community contribution, that will include a limited and small financial support for the launching and management of the joint call, will essentially provide funding for topping-up the national (or regional) contributions to the joint call budget. The total EC contribution for this ERANET Plus project is limited to a maximum of 1/3 of the total cumulative joint call budget, up to € 8 million. Specific features: See Annex 4. To be eligible, ERANET Plus proposals have to respond to the following criteria: - a single joint call should be planned with a clear financial commitment from the participants; - eligible participants are programme owners or programme managers. A minimum of 5 participants from 5 different Member or Associated States providing funding in the joint call is requested; - minimum financial budget of the joint call: € 5 million; - each project to be retained for funding shall be transnational (minimum 2 partners from different countries). Expected impact: (i) Improve coordination and reduce overlapping in key fields of research; (ii) achieve critical mass and ensure better use of limited resources in fields of mutual interests; (iii) share good practices in implementing research programmes; (iv) promote transnational collaborations and new knowledge generation. [note] This topic is subject to a joint call for ERA-NETs across the Themes. For further information see Annex 4. [download PDF] 3 - NMP-2007-1.2-5 Examining capacity building in nanobiotechnology full description click again to close Technical content/scope: The field of nanobiotechnology is an extremely rapidly growing research area. Challenges are big, in particular since nanobiotechnology greatly benefits from an interdisciplinary ("converging") approach, including (i) various scientific and technical disciplines, (ii) entrepreneurship for transforming new knowledge into value-added technologies (often with the creation of new SMEs), and (iii) societal, ethical and regulatory considerations in order to correctly cope with European people's expectations and concerns. Ancillary aspects can also play a critical role to achieve or fail to achieve success at European level, such as nomenclature, specific metrology, harmonisation work for potential standards, (certified) reference materials, intellectual property rights as well as dedicated education and training, and the service to industry and particularly to high-tech SMEs. Therefore, the involvement of actors with expertise in many aspects is needed in order to develop nanobiotechnology successfully and timely, and this requires a Europe-wide effort. The support action should explore the definition, establishment and further development of a European scale infrastructure on nanobiotechnology, and the establishment of a realistic roadmap. It will also address the identification of top-class activities carried out in Europe, assessing their positioning with respect to the international scene. Funding scheme: Coordination and support actions aiming at supporting research activities. Specific features: Maximum duration: 12 months. Expected impact: (i) Capacity building in Europe in nanobiotechnology; (ii) support for the development of new nanobiotechnology-based products and industrial processes, for their reliability, safety and future commercialisation on the global market; (iii) implementation of the European Commission's Action Plan for Nanotechnology; (iv) elements relevant to establishing the creation of one (or more) leading pole(s) of excellence that will be able to support industrial activities, in particular benefiting high-tech SMEs. [download PDF] 2 - NMP-2007-1.3-5 Coordination in studying the environmental, safety and health impact of engineered nanoparticles and nanotechnology based materials and products full description click again to close Technical content / scope: Knowledge regarding the toxicological and ecotoxicological profile of nanomaterials as well exposure data should be integrated to the rapid development of the technology and sufficient data should be available for a proper risk assessment. Existing standard test methods have been developed under current regulatory regimes for traditional chemicals and may need adjustment to be applied to nanomaterials. An effort is therefore needed to develop adequate methodologies, taking advantage of the latest scientific and technical evidence across all relevant disciplines. Collaboration among research groups and coordination of research efforts will increase efficiency, which may more rapidly lead to adoption of standardised and validated methods essential for regulatory activities. The expected coordination action should address amongst others but not exclusively, the following activities: • Coordination in establishing and performing test strategies and methods for toxicity and ecotoxicity with a view to develop efficient test systems and tiered testing approaches for nanomaterials; • Coordination in studying possibilities to develop quick screening methods for (eco)toxicity, in vitro models and predictive models for (eco)toxicity for nanomaterials, in particular focussing on properties like carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, reprotoxicity, bioaccumulation and persistence; • Coordination in approaching risk assessment tools for nanotechnology-enabled products, including modelling, exposure scenario development and life-cycle analysis; • Coordination in developing risk assessment methodology for assessing environmental and health effects of nanomaterials and for performing impact assessments. Funding scheme: Coordination and support actions aiming at coordinating research activities. Specific features: None Expected impact: (i) Synergy, increased efficiency and effectiveness in the European research activities in this field; (ii) better understanding of the impact of nanoparticles on health and the environment, and definition of actions; (iii) safe and responsible development and industrial use of nanotechnology; (iv) support to regulatory measures and implementation of legislation (v) support to industrial decision making, to EU research and to other EU policies; (vi) implementation of the European Commission's Action Plan for Nanotechnology; (vii) creation of one (or more) leading pole(s) of excellence that will be able to support industrial activities, in particular benefiting high-technology SMEs [download PDF] NMP - Nanosciences, Nanotechnologies, Materials and new Production Technologies Identifier: FP7-NMP-2007-SMALL-1 Publication date: 22 December 2006 Budget: € 105 723 000 Deadline(s): 04 May 2007 at 17:00:00 (Brussels local time) 13 September 2007 at 17:00:00 (Brussels local time) - Stage 2 (only for proposals retained at stage 1)