Architectured materials: paving the way for eco-design?

Today, the focus is on developing tailor-made materials with specific properties rather than settling for commercial materials. The concept of "architectured materials” stems from the consideration of a much broader notion that exceeds the realms of traditional materials, through the integration of the multifunctional aspect. They combine optimum selection of materials and material distribution which thereby takes on a functional role to meet increasingly demanding specifications. New requirements include material savings and streamlined structures which help to foster sustainable development through their rationalisation and performance prospects. The whole idea of an architectured material is ubiquitous among natural materials such as wood, shells and so forth, so that biomimicry is a powerful strategy in this sector. Especially efficient geometries are now possible due to the recent remarkable breakthroughs of the additive manufacturing sector. Alongside CEMAM (Centre of Excellence of Multifunctional Architectured Materials), Grenoble INP holds a very strong position in this sector with assets ranging from expertise in materials, creation, design and material selection to the long-standing cooperation of these engineering disciplines with biologists. As a result, Grenoble is able to position itself well in this innovative disciplinary field which quite naturally now forms part of the regional and national priorities. What remains to be done is disassembling and recycling what was patiently assembled together: the challenge is not an easy one, however, here again Grenoble INP has the required skills and expertise. To address these challenges, Grenoble INP is proposing a project to create a Centre for Eco-design of Architectured Materials (ECOMARCH) within the framework of the future State-Region Planning Contract (CPER).



Yves Bréchet, High Commissioner for Atomic Energy, professor at Grenoble INP and Head of CEMAM