Project Portugal 2030

Summary

Currently, the forefront of innovation emphasizes the development of materials that meet sustainability, ease of preparation, cost-effectiveness, and optimal functionality criteria, as reflected in the agendas of developed countries worldwide. SENSORBILITY's challenge is to manufacture sustainable flexible piezoelectric sensors for diverse applications using additive manufacturing assisted by electric polarization. Despite reported viability in literature, the technology, equipment, filaments, and knowledge are not yet consolidated. Industrial development is crucial to progress towards application, aiming to advance from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 2 to TRL 5. Specific objectives include: 1. Developing (bio)composite filaments engineered to gain maximized piezoelectric properties. 2. Modifying Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) equipment to enable electric field application for poling melted filament during or just after the printing. 3. Tailoring piezoelectric sensitivity through polymer/composite composition and poling condition adjustments. 4. Understanding how printing design affects the piezoelectric performance of the sensor. 5. Validating filament and additive manufacturing technology through prototype fabrication of a touch sensor device for hand prostheses. SENSORBILITY proposes to pave the way towards advanced materials development, aligned with the European Green Deal, by utilizing biopolymers, non-toxic metal oxides, and sustainable production strategies. Furthermore, SENSORBILITY aims to implement additive manufacturing technology in processing functional devices, minimizing raw materials losses, and producing customized devices for various applications, including healthcare.