SMARTFAN proposes the development of “smart” materials and product architectures, with integrated functionalities, that will interact with their environment and react to stimuli by employing biomimetic, selfsensing, actuating and damage-repairing technologies. Their smartness are based on bio-inspired engineering and the use of low and high grade carbon fibres (CF), CF reinforced polymers (CFRPs) and (iii) nano-/micro- composites with special physicochemical properties, in order to develop smart (bulk) materials, applied on intelligent structures.

Smart materials are used in applications such as transducers, actuators & motors, and structural materials. The market for smart materials is rising currently due to the adoption of smart materials and products among various end-user industries. For instance, aerospace, automotive, and consumer electronics.

The Smartfan European School on Carbon Fibers has the aim of contributing to the professional development of high-degree students and young researchers giving information about the novelties in the field of composite materials and their application in industry. The school will offer keynote lectures and presentation from high level professionals and researchers; moreover, it will be possibile to participate to practical lessons and networing activities for the people that will attend the event in-person.