International partners gather at Fraunhofer IFAM to review project progress, launch new work packages, and strengthen European collaboration on sustainable composite recycling.
The CARBOWAVE consortium successfully held its 4th Project Consortium Meeting on 1–2 July 2026 at Fraunhofer IFAM in Bremen, Germany. The two-day meeting brought together project partners from across Europe, both in person and online, to review technical progress, coordinate upcoming activities, and reinforce collaboration towards developing innovative and sustainable solutions for composite material recycling.
Hosted by Fraunhofer IFAM, the meeting served as an important milestone for the Horizon Europe-funded project, enabling consortium members to evaluate achievements across multiple work packages while planning the next phase of research and innovation.
Day 1: Reviewing Technical Progress and Project Impact
The meeting was chaired by the University of Limerick (UL), the project coordinator, which welcomed partners and outlined the agenda for the two-day event.
Technical presentations focused on significant progress achieved within Work Package 3 (WP3). Updates were delivered by researchers from the Bernal Institute, the University of Limerick, and the Universitat de València (UVEG), highlighting recent developments and ongoing research activities.
The consortium also reviewed progress within Work Package 4 (WP4). The session, led by Marilena Radoiu of Microwave Technologies Consulting, included technical contributions from Fraunhofer IFAM and MUEGGE, showcasing advancements in microwave-assisted technologies and collaborative research.
The Communication and Dissemination (WP2) session presented the project’s achievements in stakeholder engagement, digital communication, website development, social media outreach, and overall project visibility. Partners discussed ongoing strategies to maximise the project’s scientific, industrial, and societal impact across Europe.
Day 2: Launching New Work Packages
The second day marked the official launch of Work Package 6 (WP6), with contributions from Fraunhofer IFAM, the German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research (DITF), and the University of Limerick. The session introduced the objectives and collaborative activities that will guide the next stage of the project.
The consortium also officially initiated Work Package 7 (WP7) under the leadership of the German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research (DITF). Partners discussed planned milestones, implementation strategies, and future research priorities that will support the project’s long-term objectives.
As part of the programme, participants toured Fraunhofer IFAM’s advanced laboratory facilities, gaining first-hand insight into the institute’s state-of-the-art research infrastructure and innovative technologies that support cutting-edge materials research.
Strengthening European Collaboration for Sustainable Innovation
The 4th Consortium Meeting reaffirmed the CARBOWAVE consortium’s shared commitment to accelerating sustainable innovation through multidisciplinary research, knowledge exchange, and strong international collaboration.
The consortium extends its sincere appreciation to Fraunhofer IFAM for hosting the meeting and to all project partners for their valuable contributions and continued commitment. Through collaborative research and innovation, CARBOWAVE continues to advance Europe’s transition towards more sustainable and circular solutions for composite materials.
Consortium Partners
The CARBOWAVE consortium includes Universitat de València, University of Limerick, Bernal Institute, Fraunhofer IFAM, German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research (DITF), MUEGGE Group, Microwave Technologies Consulting, Stellantis, Juno Composites Ltd, and EireComposites.
