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YEAR BOOK |
University of Limerick � Materials Ireland
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Applied research and network coordination for industry
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The Centre is involved in industry driven contract research and development for manufacturers and end users of Industrial Materials; EU sponsored research and development programmes in advanced materials; development of novel manufacturing and fabrication technology; and process optimisation. Activities at the centre include technology transfer and commercialisation of technology, as well as the coordination of sectoral networks.
Networks have been identified as key to helping Irish Companies to grow in world markets. Many industries have common needs in the areas of training and technical issues, while networks can also lead to valuable collaborations to strengthen market penetration. The MIRC at UL is involved in the organisation and development of several successful sectoral networks at national and international level.
Sectoral Network for the Glass and Ceramic Industry in Ireland
CERAMNET IRELAND is a recently formed industry led and driven network, facilitated by MIRC, that acts as a forum for the Irish ceramics and glass industries to promote best practice in terms of technology, innovation, training and business development. Ceramnet currently has eleven member companies, across a broad sectoral range (pottery, whitewares, tiles, bricks, refractories, electronic ceramics) and has delivered a number of technical seminars on topics ranging from environmental issues, such as carbon tax and waste management, to production and processing technology.
Network for the Bioengineering and Materials Industry in Ireland
The Biomaterials/Bioengineering Network was launched in 1999 in response to the need for a co-ordinated approach to collaborative R & D between Irish industry, 3rd level researchers and clinicians. One of its major successes has been the establishment of a database of 3rd level expertise that facilitates the co-ordination of this Network. A one page summary document of the primary contacts in each 3rd level institution in six key technology areas was launched in May 2003 and is available from Ann Sullivan, National Co-ordinator of the Network, [email protected].
Skills Network for the Sub-Supply Sector and Developing Materials Technology
The TsunaMat Skillnet is an Industry led network to identify and deliver training needs and workshops for a broad range of company types within its membership. Within the skillnet, there are two core clusters � one whose focus is on collaboration among companies in the sub-supply sector; the other whose focus is on augmenting the materials technology capabilities of companies. Companies in the Mid-West are welcome to become involved.
Materials Network Atlantic Arc (MNAA)
The core partners in the UK (Exeter, Bristol, Bath), Ireland (Materials Ireland � Limerick, Dublin), France (Nantes), Spain (Salamanca, Cordoba, Seville) and Portugal (Aveiro, Porto) have complementary interests and capabilities in Materials. In addition, several of the partners are the foci of local sub-networks (for MNAA) involving other academic and industrial RTD units and local SMEs. The network aims at deeper, lasting, formal integration between partners to create an internationally-recognised centre of expertise in materials, and also broader connection to steadily widening sub-networks of start-ups, SMEs and larger industrial concerns. MNAA specialises in:
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�polymers and composites
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�ceramics and glasses
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�biomaterials and health
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�environmental/sustainable development.
Contact: Professor Stuart Hampshire, Centre Director; Deirdre O'Reilly, Centre Manager; or Dr Paul Butler, at Materials Ireland Research Centre, University Limerick;
E-mail [email protected] ; [email protected] ; Web: www.mirc.ul.ie