Materials
Developing new materials means pushing physico-chemical boundaries and seeking ever-improving technical properties (lightness, mechanical strength, insulating properties, durability, etc.). Materials may also be equipped with new functionalities (self-repairing, piezoelectric, thermoelectric, biodegradable, etc.).
Accelerating the energy transition by developing new energies (nuclear, wind, solar, etc.) will lead to a massive new use of materials such as lithium, silicon and metals (copper, aluminium, platinum, etc.). The industry is thus at the heart of environmental concerns, with the need for efficient use and recycling of materials. The recycling challenge is now at the heart of manufacturing and must be taken into account in all R&D and innovation initiatives.
The sector aims to anticipate the increasing scarcity of raw materials and energy used in production, and to decarbonise manufacturing.
In summary, the materials sector addresses a wide range of strategic R&D challenges that are essential for the energy transition. These research activities are strongly encouraged and supported by France and the European countries, and identifying which activities are eligible for funding requires a detailed understanding of the specific characteristics of each actor.
An essential step in the development of the sector is therefore the valorisation and financing of these activities, including R&D pilot projects and the depreciation of equipment used in research.
Another major challenge for the sector is the development and monetisation of intellectual property.
Development of bio-sourced materials (hemp concrete) with naturally hygroscopic thermal insulation properties.
New generation of solid oxide electrolysers for the production of low-carbon hydrogen.
Development of new processes for recycling critical metals, with a view to recycling the exponential number of lithium-ion batteries.
