Preparation of a Eurogrant application for the HORIZON-MSCA-2026-SE-01 programme, focused on the development of biodegradable, functional biocomposites with a controlled end-of-life, produced using AI-assisted extrusion

Project title: Preparation of a Eurogrant application for the HORIZON-MSCA-2026-SE-01 programme, focused on the development of biodegradable, functional biocomposites with a controlled end-of-life, produced using AI-assisted extrusion

Program name: European Funds for Modern Economy Programme 2021-2027, FENG.02.12 Granty na Eurogranty

Agreement number: FENG.02.12-IP.02-0194/26

Project implementation period: 02.03.2026 - 30.01.2027

Principal Investigator: prof. dr hab. inż. Janusz Sikora

Project value: 39 601,00 PLN

Funds granted for Lublin University of Technology: 39 601,00 PLN

Abstract: This project, carried out by the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at Lublin University of Technology under the FENG 02.12 "Grants for Eurogrants" scheme, involves the preparation of a proposal for the Horizon Europe – MSCA Staff Exchanges call (HORIZON-MSCA-2026-SE-01). The planned "BiComposite" Eurogrant focuses on the field of mechanical engineering - specifically polymer processing technologies, the development and optimization of working components in processing machinery, and the control of extrusion processes. Research into biodegradable polymer composites serves as the material foundation for developing energy-efficient and stable manufacturing technologies. Lublin University of Technology is set to lead a work package within the project.

A key aspect of the initiative involves developing a prototype solution for an extruder, including dosing and control systems, as well as a screw configuration optimized through artificial intelligence algorithms. From a mechanical engineering perspective, the project links the properties of the processed material with the design of the machinery’s working components and the specific operating conditions. The intended outcomes include improved extrusion efficiency and stability, reduced energy consumption, and higher-quality composites. Artificial intelligence will serve as a tool to support the optimization of both the technological process and the operation of the processing machinery.

The technology under development is intended to enable the processing of biodegradable polymer composites containing natural biocidal additives. The goal is to produce materials that retain antibacterial activity for 6 to 12 months, after which they will biodegrade in the natural environment. The materials-related component will focus on issues concerning chemical, mechanical, and thermal processing during the extrusion process. The project thus integrates material development with the adaptation of processing technology and equipment; the specified properties and outcomes serve as the objectives for future research and development activities.

The EU-funded project is planned for a duration of 48 months, with a grant of approximately EUR 1.7 million. The consortium consists of seven entities from five EU countries: Lublin University of Technology, the project coordinator Łukasiewicz – Institute of Polymer Materials, the University of West Attica, the Technical University of Košice, LPH a.s., Dirmeta UAB, and Cerca Trova. This collaboration between research institutions and enterprises aims to combine expertise in materials, processing technologies, and AI-assisted optimization. International and cross-sectoral staff secondments, training sessions, and workshops will facilitate knowledge transfer between academia and industry.

The structure of the Eurogrant project comprises eight work packages (WPs). WPs 1 - 5 focus on the research and development of composites and their processing technologies, WP6 covers staff exchanges, training, and collaboration, WP7 addresses the dissemination of results and intellectual property issues and WP8 concerns project management. From the perspective of mechanical engineering, the key areas of work include intelligent extrusion, dosing and control systems, screw configuration, and the energy efficiency of the manufacturing process.

The project, funded under the "Grants for Eurogrants" scheme, is limited to the preparation of the application documentation and does not include the execution of research or the development of prototypes. It is scheduled to run from March 2, 2026, to January 30, 2027. The application preparation process will involve defining the research and technology program, task allocation, budget, timeline, secondment plans, as well as policies for data management and the dissemination of results. The proposal specifies April 15, 2026, as the planned date for submitting the European application. The budget for the preparatory project is 39,601 PLN, with 100% of costs covered via a lump-sum payment. The direct outcome will be the preparation and submission of a single "Eurogrant" application. Organizational activities will be carried out with a focus on digital accessibility, equal opportunities, and resource conservation - achieved through the use of an electronic document workflow and the hosting of three remote meetings. The application under development is intended to lay the groundwork for international collaborative work on machinery and technologies for polymer processing, integrating mechanical solutions, AI-assisted control systems, and measures to reduce the energy intensity of manufacturing processes.

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