Where to go for information on Innovation in Marine Materials
The Materials Knowledge Transfer Network (KTN) is a government funded national network in materials science which brings together people from businesses, universities, research, finance and technology organisations to stimulate innovation through knowledge transfer.
It aims to bring together the materials supply chain to bridge the link from basic research to marketable products, thus improving industrial innovation and global competitiveness of UK business.
This is achieved by:
* Networking through
- organising technical focus events / workshops
- signposting, introductions, funding guidance
- a web platform for topical groups
* Identifying emerging technologies and market needs
- by producing state-of-the-art reports and roadmaps
- helping inform Government strategy
* Strengthening links between Academia, RTOs and Industry, particularly by drawing together and supporting collaborative research consortia
The Materials KTN serves all industrial sectors in UK, including the marine sector, particularly through the composites (run through National Composites Network) and smart materials (run through Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining) sector groups.
You can register at http://www.materialsktn.net for access to many reports relevant to the marine sector. You will also then receive notification of new articles, events and reports.
Composites reports include subjects such as composite recycling, composites in ships, fire resistance, marine roadmap. Presentations are available from Boatbuilding with Advanced Composites: Manufacturing for the Future held in July 2010.
Boatbuilding with Advanced Composites: Smart and Sustainable will be held in June / July 2011 - please register to receive notification when details are available.
Smart reports include subjects such as antifouling technology, structural health monitoring, and an overview of smart materials for the marine environment. Presentations are available from the April 2010 event Cleaning up Marine Antifouling.
Also of interest to small marine businesses is the UK Composites Supply Chain Programme, which is offering free consultancy to small composite businesses.
For further information or if you are seeking guidance or partners for technology development, please contact Stella Job stella.job@materialsktn.net.
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