Exploring novel bio-based materials and their applications in conservation and restoration with a new interdisciplinary team

When searching for sustainable materials, bio-based materials obtained from renewable sources are a promising solution for the future and a priority for the European Union.

BioBASED2UC intends to expand a new line of research at the University of Coimbra (UC), that lies on two vectors: 1) the development of bio-based materials (focus on nanocelluloses), and 2) application of the bio-based materials in the conservation and restoration of historical cellulosic objects (focus on paper documents).

For that, a new interdisciplinary team will be created under the coordination of the ERA Chair holder, aimed to establish a permanent research group in the field beyond the duration of the project.

The ERA Chair holder will be Professor Naceur Belgacem, that, in addition to being a prolific researcher, has a long experience (16-years) in coordinating research groups and institutions. He will be assisted by the internal team of UC and an international advisory board.

Besides the development of new products and methodologies, BIOBASED2UC will: strengthen human capital resources at the UC with better-trained researchers and technicians in the two vectors of the proposal; boost the quality of the scientific research developed at UC by succeeding in publishing in high impact journals and in obtaining competitive funding; increase the visibility of UC in bridging interdisciplinary areas within the European Research Area; build a network with the Paper Conservators in Portugal (museums, archives and libraries) with the introduction of the new sustainable approaches.

These institutional changes will, in the long term, positively contribute to the achievement of a stronger and more circular economy regionally and across Europe taking a step forward towards the sustainable preservation of cultural heritage, as well to have a new market for nanocelluloses, and creation of new jobs.

The UC is committed to taking the necessary measures to support the sound implementation of the project.