The project SEALTEX aims at uptake by PLANET of the most recent technological improvements on micro-/nano-machining technologies to manufacture the first ground-breaking micro-patterned chemicals-free super-oleophobic gasket. SEALTEX is micro-patterned on their surfaces in order to achieve super-oleophobicity without using any kind of chemical coatings for several industrial applications (automotive engines among the others) waiting to use high-performing micro-patterned gaskets and seals resistant to oils and fuels, since they are currently strongly detrimental and injurious for their durability due to wear resistance issues (DWRI). Due to durability and wear resistance issues (DWRI) of gaskets and seals, which systematically occur during use, they become a severe and risky problem in different parts of vehicles (engine, chassis and car interiors) increasing breakages and malfunctions rates, and also potentially causing incidents and dangerous unsafe situations for drivers. GASTEX project meets the objectives of the SMEInst-02 topic: the harvesting in the automotive field of the hitherto untapped potential of cutting edge micro/nano manufacturing technologies by means of an innovative super-oleophobic gasket which has a potential for a wider deployment in very short time. First of all, there is no elastomeric gasket currently on the market able to efficiently prevent deterioration of both durability and shape due to swelling. Secondly, the prototype will be enhanced and validated by means of technical trials in real conditions in the Companies forming our European collaborators network. The feasibility study will also be used to submit a Phase 2 proposal in order to bring our technology from lab to market and thus, guaranteeing a wide market deployment. We believe that there is an unmet need in that field, and the final product will contribute to enhance performances of gaskets improving life of vehicles and reducing the related maintenance costs.

HYDROUSA will provide innovative, regenerative and circular solutions for (1) nature-based water management of Mediterranean coastal areas, closing water loops; (2) nutrient management, boosting the agricultural and energy profile; and (3) local economies, based on circular value chains. The services provided lead to a win-win-win situation for the economy, environment and community within the water-energy-food-employment nexus. HYDROUSA water loops will include water from non-conventional sources including wastewater, rainwater, seawater, groundwater and vapour water, all resulting in recovered and marketable products. HYDROUSA will demonstrate at large scale the feasibility and sustainability of innovative, low-cost water treatment technologies to recover freshwater, nutrients and energy from wastewater, salt and freshwater from seawater, and freshwater from atmospheric water vapour. Water conservation solutions including aquifer storage and sustainable agricultural practices including fertigation will be applied. The solutions will be demonstrated on 3 major touristic islands in Greece. Detailed technical and financial deployment plans will be established for replication in additional 25 locations worldwide. Through the on-site water loops of HYDROUSA, complex supply chains for resource recovery are not required, as producers are directly involved as consumers of derived products. HYDROUSA will combine traditional skilled workmanship with modern ICT integration in beautiful and smart automation systems. HYDROUSA will revolutionise water value chains in Mediterranean areas and beyond, from water abstraction to sewage treatment and reuse. The proposed HYDROUSA solutions show massive potential to change the way humans interact with water, food and energy.