1 – Brief description of your organisation and your main responsibility in the project
Politechnika Gdańska (eng: Gdansk University of Technology (Gdańsk Tech)) was established in 1945 as the Polish state university. It is one of the oldest polish university. Currently, the University has strong multi-disciplinary links across the entire range of research – it has 9 faculties, in 12 leading disciplines, including Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Ship Technology with a strong focus on investigation of composite materials.
Gdańsk Tech is a particularly strong research unit, comprising of 1300 full-time academic staff. Gdańsk Tech has the 1st place in the ranking of universities most often selected by the applicants published by the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education.
In the last decade, Gdańsk Tech acquired more than 250 patents and more than 200 R&D projects with national and international funds. Gdańsk Tech implemented also 23 projects from the EU FP6 and 22 projects from the EU FP7.
By 2020, Gdańsk Tech has acquired 19 projects from the EU Framework Program HORIZON 2020.
Members of Gdank Tech have large experience in research area, as well as in didactics and teaching of ocean engineering students. Our previous projects were oriented both on research of composite materials which are currently commonly used for boats and ships. Therefore, we are familiar with their characteristics, methods of testing and the possible limitations. The detailed knowledge on composite materials we bring for the project is crucial for preparing new and up-to-date training courses and handbooks.
Gdansk Tech actively cooperates with POLBOAT. The cooperation with industry is the source of knowledge about the actual manufacturing methods, new materials and their modifications. Thus, we are also familiar with current and future challenges related to practical application of composites. Due to this expertise and experience in education and many years of close cooperation with marine industry, it will be possible to transfer the project’s results regarding Deep Tech materials between universities, companies and VET trainers.
2 – Brief words about why you think this project is necessary
In the ever-evolving landscape of the marine industry, the imperative for sustainable practices has never been more pressing. We recognize the inherent need for transformative action within the boating sector. Our experiences underscores that there is still much ground to cover, with a steadfast commitment to continuous improvement and sustainability at its core.
The raison of project lies in its mission to catalyze a paradigm shift towards greener, more sustainable practices within the shipbuilding sector. This necessitates a concerted effort to educate and train both current professionals and future generations, instilling within them the ethos of sustainability.
Looking ahead, the imperative for eco-friendliness within the boating industry is undeniable. In essence, the TecoNaut project is a clarion call for action—a call to reimagine the nautical industry as a bastion of sustainability and responsible stewardship.
