A new research network to develop sustainable materials and devices

An interdisciplinary research network about nanomaterials eco-design

« Nouveaux mATériaux et dispositifs dURablEs » (NATURE) research network brings together nearly 200 specialists engaged in the development and research of more sustainable (nano-)materials and devices. The materials under study are targeted at strategic applications related to energy, the environment, and health, among other areas.

The scientists involved are primarily from the fields of physics, materials science, and engineering, but this interdisciplinary research network also brings together geophysicists and philosophers. They explore the relationships between science, technology, and the ecological transition. The research network itself is primarily affiliated with CNRS Physics and secondarily with CNRS Chemistry and CNRS Engineering.

This research network addresses the theme of eco-design of (nano-)materials and devices to limit their environmental impact. To this end, it incorporates the life cycle assessment (LCA) approach from the very design phase of the material.

Considering and designing new materials with a systems-based approach

New materials used in technological devices make it possible to enhance performance and/or add new functionalities, with applications spanning a wide range of fields. However, a comprehensive and in-depth analysis must be conducted regarding the environmental impacts of these new materials and devices throughout their entire life cycle, using a multi-criteria approach. Thus, the design of these materials and devices must integrate not only functional performance but also potential social, philosophical, economic, geopolitical, and ecological aspects prior to future mass production. 

By connecting labs from various disciplines (Physics, Engineering, Chemistry, Earth & Universe, Ecology & Environment, and Humanities & Social Sciences), we aim to foster a systems-based approach to addressing the challenges posed by these issues and proposing concrete solutions.

Developing new materials using an eco-design approach

The NATURE research network brings together teams that develop new materials, nanomaterials, thin films, and devices using an eco-responsible approach. This approach is based on: 

• on the properties of materials and devices (low energy consumption, “green energy” technologies, biosensors, etc.) 
• on choices made as early as the manufacturing phase, including the replacement of critical or toxic components, the development of more sustainable synthesis processes, or the integration of a life cycle assessment (LCA) approach. 

Integrating environmental impact and LCA from the material design stage

NATURE research network supports participating laboratories in adopting the LCA approach, enabling researchers to gradually integrate this tool into their work and determine whether the solutions they develop offer a real environmental benefit compared to existing technologies. This initiative is carried out with the support of the UTOPII Research Support Unit, to develop new multi-criteria assessment approaches based on LCA.