MOMENTUM · Multidisciplinary research and training on composite materials applications in transport modes

Final Activity Report Summary - MOMENTUM (Multidisciplinary research and training on composite materials applications in transport modes)

The objective of MOMENTUM was to set up an effective and sustainable research platform for the study and development of innovative composite materials applications for the rail, aerospace, maritime and automotive transport modes using outstanding training based on multidisciplinary approach and transfer of knowledge as main tools producing a new generation of highly employable researchers with unique skills. The work performed was organised around a number of specific research areas identified as the core subjects to allow facilitating an increase in the use of composite materials in transport applications. These research areas were: 1. development of new material concepts 2. design, simulation and modelling 3. manufacturing technologies 4. durability and repair of structural components 5. recycling 6. life cycle analysis. To do so, 17 research projects were carried out in the framework of MOMENTUM. These projects were largely undertaken by 15 early stage researchers (ESRs) in addition to 2 experienced researchers (ERs) also carrying out research. This work resulted in a total of 104 peer reviewed papers being published by the momentum fellows. 27 of these papers were published on prestigious peer reviewed journals and 67 on peer reviewed conference proceedings where they had been presented by the fellows. Moreover, as a result of the research carried out by MOMENTUM fellows, three patents were successfully filed. Regarding the qualifications obtained as a result of the project, all the ESRs completed their PhDs or were about to by the time of the project completion, since certain institutions required more than three years to complete the Doctoral studies in which case the fellows were funded by the host institutions in order to complete their work. In addition the ESR at Stuttgart University achieved the German 'habilitation' qualification, which was equivalent to a DSc. Training was at the very core of MOMENTUM and of the entire Marie Curie research training network's (RTN) initiative. This was reflected in the main training aim of the project seeking to provide a response to an urgent need to train individuals in the critical aspects identified as the key future research areas for aerospace, maritime, automotive and rail transport modes using a multi-disciplinary and intersectorial approach. This was translated into a number of specific training objectives, namely: 1. defining the means whereby research teams of international stature could interlink and collaborate within the well defined context of the project 2. implementation of a well structured training programme for both early stage and experienced researchers 3. provision of a cohesive flexible and multidisciplinary framework for training and professional development 4. development of a critical mass of qualified researchers to create added value to the European community 5. development of extended links to the new member states, candidate and associated countries as well as to other less favoured regions of the European Union. Overall, these training objectives were achieved. The training methodology was been delivered on three different levels, namely on scientific and technological level, additional skill level and transfer of knowledge level. The skills, experience and exposure achieved during the duration of MOMENTUM successfully contributed to opening career opportunities to the participating fellows. The 17 ESR and ER fellowships that were available resulted in 19 researchers joining MOMENTUM. One fellowship has had three different researchers over the duration of the project due to resignations, resulting in 19 researchers having participated in the network at some point. All of these fellows had their career paths significantly improved as a direct result of this project and were fully employed in the industry and academia. The network was actively engaged in external activities in order to both promote its activities and enrich its outcomes for the benefit of the fellows. External organisations were invited to network events to present their activities and learn about the progress of the fellows' research. At the same time, MOMENTUM partners established a number of collaboration agreements.

Data: CORDIS, © European Union