Integrated nanocomposites for thermal and kinetic energy harvesting
INTAKE (integrated nanocomposites for thermal and kinetic energy harvesting) is an inter/multidisciplinary research focused exchange and training programme that brings together researchers from various disciplines (engineering, physics and social science) with expertise spanning across energy harvesting, nanomaterials, micro/nanotechnology, functional composites, manufacturing and socioeconomic development. The network is specifically designed to foster an inter/multidisciplinary outlook in order to embed socioeconomic awareness and sustainability considerations within the research culture.

INTAKE’s innovation vision aims to achieve a step change towards the next generation of hybrid energy harvesting nanocomposites, which can be integrated into lightweight and ultra-strong structural composites at the nanoscopic level. This would infuse composite laminates with inherent intelligent functionalities (such as energy harvesting, sensing and wireless communication), without noticeable alterations or adverse effects to the macroscopic structural properties. The resulting smart multifunctional composite material will have immense socioeconomic benefits to Europe and the world, as it can help to improve productivity and safety, while reducing operating costs and carbon footprint. This can then serve as a fundamental building block for numerous future engineering systems across the transport, energy, medical, space, utilities and infrastructure sectors. 

INTAKE consists of 4 European partners (in the UK, Hungary and Poland) and 4 Asian partners (in China and Japan). The network will help nurture the next generation of creative, highly skilled and socially responsible young researchers for the European innovation sectors. INTAKE will forge a mutually beneficial collaboration platform for energy harvesting, composites and nanotechnology researchers between Europe and Asia, which can be morphed into a worldwide network in the long-term.