In 2024
the Manufacturing NextMaterials (MNM) project is launched, an ambitious
European initiative aimed at scaling up from prototypes to test production of
parts and components with smart and sustainable properties. Think lightweight
car parts and battery materials. The aim is to give some 120 SMEs the necessary
competences to bridge the gap between prototype and market. Initiator and lead
partner Oost NL is working with several German and Dutch partners on this
project over a four-year period.
The MNM
project stems from the need to support SMEs in materials technology. Often,
these companies face difficulties in scaling up to production and entering the
market, as government support usually stops at the prototype development stage.
MNM focuses on addressing these barriers and provides solutions to issues
related to production techniques, quality assurance and compliance with legal
requirements. The project thus bridges the gap between prototyping and test
production. This enables the manufacturing industry to respond quickly and
efficiently to the growing demand for smart and sustainable products. Think
sustainable materials for lightweight vehicles or safe and recyclable batteries
that are better for the environment and people. And replace unhealthy
substances, such as PFAS.
Oost NL,
NMWP.NRW and BOM are the core partners of the project. Together with five
knowledge institutes and CATO Composites, Application Centre of Saxion
University of Applied Sciences, Fraunhofer Innovation Platform of University of
Twente, University of Münster, Fraunhofer Institute for Battery Cell production
and Rapid Technology Centre of University of Duisburg-Essen are working on
three so-called Lighthouse pilot projects.
In these
‘Lighthouse’ pilot projects, German and Dutch innovation centres are working
together to provide solutions to three key challenges in materials technology.
Challenges in this area lie in setting up proper test production of composite
materials, the use of 3D printing to grow beyond the prototype phase, and the
production technology of smart materials, such as those for batteries. Thus,
they are making strides in scaling up parts and components from the prototype
phase to market-ready products.
The
projects provide support to SMEs in both technical and business areas, with a
focus on test productions. The knowledge partners focus on technical obstacles,
while the core partners concentrate on business aspects. Together, they are
creating cross-border facilities for test productions of composites, advanced
battery production and support for 3D printing. MNM contributes by providing a
roadmap for continued cooperation between innovation centres. Workshops and training sessions are also
organised to prepare SMEs for test productions. Budget is reserved for SMEs to
set up and carry out test productions, involving potential customers and
investors as observers.
