Category: News

Prof. Fabiana Arduini from the University of Rome Tor Vergata, a valued partner of RELIANCE project, was a distinguished plenary speaker at the 7th International Symposium on Electrochemistry, held from April 13th to 16th, 2025, in Durban, South Africa. The symposium, titled “Electrochemical Solutions for a Sustainable Future,” provided a vibrant platform for researchers to exchange cutting-edge developments in electrochemistry and foster new collaborations.

Prof. Arduini’s lecture focused on “Paper-based electrochemical (bio)sensors for sustainable analysis”. It captivated the audience as she outlined the roadmap and significant advancements achieved by her team in the realm of paper-based electrochemical (bio)sensors, highlighting their ongoing work and accomplishments within the Horizon Europe projects RELIANCE and Phoenix-OoC.

The presentation showcased impressive results demonstrating the potential of paper-based electrochemical (bio)sensors as an innovative biosensing technology for the rapid and convenient detection of viruses and bacteria on various surfaces. This technology holds significant capability for diverse applications, contributing to more sustainable and efficient analytical methods.

The 7th International Symposium on Electrochemistry, hosted at the scenic Maharani Hotel in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, attracted leading researchers working across a broad spectrum of electrochemistry and related fields. The scientific program encompassed key themes such as sensors and biosensors, electroanalytical chemistry, electrochemistry for water treatment, energy, environment, food, process industries, electrocatalysis, electrochemistry of materials, and computational electrochemistry.

Organized by the Electrochem SA division of the South African Chemical Institute (SACI), this prestigious international event underscored the dynamic and interdisciplinary nature of electrochemistry and its crucial role in addressing contemporary challenges. The symposium facilitated the sharing of the latest research findings and encouraged the establishment of valuable partnerships within the electrochemical community.

In the beginning of April, RELIANCE project enjoyed the opportunity to join leading European-funded projects in the field of advanced materials and nanoscience for an engaging workshop to kick off the Collab4Resilience (C4R) – an initiative led and coordinated by the CheMatSustain project under the motto Stronger Together in Science and Sustainability. The initiative aims to make a significant step towards stronger partnerships, recognizing the transformative potential of nanotechnology and the importance of Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) strategies in achieving a climate-neutral, circular economy. Hosted online, the event gathered experts from a diverse group of projects to explore opportunities for collaboration focused on joint communication and dissemination efforts, while promoting innovation in chemicals, materials, and nanotechnology research. All attendees welcomed the opportunity to contribute their expertise and benefit from the collective knowledge of the newly forming C4R network.

The meeting’s agenda focused on six core collaboration areas designed to maximize visibility and impact for all participating projects:

– Coordinated social media efforts, to include a dedicated LinkedIn group to enable timely sharing and amplification of project updates, driving broader engagement and awareness;

– Crafting a joint newsletter to cross-promote news, events and partner interviews, expanding the reach of each project’s achievements and fostering a culture of mutual support;

– Discuss opportunities for co-authored scientific papers, joint policy briefs and promotion of open-access repositories. This approach aims to accelerate scientific progress and ensure research findings are widely disseminated;

– Projects to curate shared YouTube playlists, featuring introductory and promotional videos from across the cluster, facilitating stakeholders and the public in discovering related initiatives;

– Plan co-organized events, share access to trainings and training schools and promote each other’s conferences and webinars, such as the upcoming Raw Materials Week and Venice Training School;

– Develop new joint activities, including joint website articles, webinars, and subgroup campaigns focused on common research interests.

Sharing a Vision for Resilience and Sustainability

The Collab4Resilience initiative embraces synergies among EU-funded projects, with a vision to accelerate progress in safety and sustainability, bringing several clear benefits to its members:

– Stronger impact by combining communication channels and resources to reach broader audiences, ensuring projects’ research and innovations have greater societal and industrial influence.

– Accelerated innovation through joint scientific activities and shared best practices by speeding up the development and adoption of advanced, safe and sustainable materials and processes.

– Stronger networks that are opening doors to new partnerships, knowledge exchange, and coordinated response to shared challenges.

– Supporting policies through policy briefs and position papers, making the voice of the cluster heard in the shaping of European research and regulatory agendas.

In summary, this synergy meeting set the foundation for a collaborative, innovative and impact-driven partnership within Collab4Resilience, with clear mechanisms for communication, shared learning, and an agile alliance to respond to emerging challenges and opportunities along its path to achieving common sustainability goals.

Contributor: Defence Institute for BioMedical Research (ISBD)

This year, from the 8^th to 10^th of April, Munich once again hosted one of the most important international events in the field of medical biodefence: the Biomedical Defence Conference, organized every two years by the Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology.

The conference was held inside a large military barracks in Munich. Everything was well organized and conducive to the successful outcome of the event.

This unique event brings together experts from all over the world – scientists, policy makers, healthcare professionals, PhD students, researchers and professors – united by a shared interest in the prevention and management of biological threats. It’s a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, strategies, and scientific advances on increasingly relevant topics. The conference offered a remarkable opportunity for exchanging ideas through sessions, poster exhibitions and workshops.

The atmosphere at the conference was truly engaging, with over 50 nations represented, creating a melting pot of experiences, approaches, and scientific cultures. The event has a strong civil-military dimension, highlighting how collaboration across sectors is crucial in responding to events such as bioterrorist attacks or natural infectious disease outbreaks.

The sessions covered a wide range of topics, from biological risk management and emergency preparedness, to the latest advancements in diagnostics, vaccines, and innovative therapies.

Each talk provided a chance to learn and reflect on how science can serve as a key tool for global security.

RELIANCE partners from the Defence Institute for Biomedical Research (ISBD) in Italy actively participated by presenting two posters related to the project: one focused on thymol, and the other one on the Silica Mesoporous Nanoparticles (SMIN). It was an incredibly rewarding experience to see a great number of attendees stopping at the posters to read, ask questions, and engage in discussion—a clear sign that the research we’re working on is generating interest.

One of the most valuable aspects of the conference was the opportunity to share our knowledge and engage with fellow researchers. ISBD colleagues returned home with an enriched toolkit, filled not only with new information but also with contacts, insights and future inspiration.

The overall experience was extremely positive: intense, useful, and—above all—motivating.

 The main topics addressed at the conferences were:

• Analysis of Host-Pathogen Interaction
• Responding to Threats: Biosafety and Deployable Labs
• Bacteriophages
• Current Trends in Biodefense-related Bacterial Infections
• Medical Countermeasures (MCM)
• Genomics and AI
• One Health: Surveillance and Tools for the Big Picture
• Synthetic Biology: Boon and Bane for Medical Biodefense
• Novel Technologies
• Tox-Alert: New Insights into Biological Toxins
• German Biosecurity Programme
• Emerging viruses

What results were reported on in the two posters:

The first poster titled “Thymol: a novel eco-friendly defense against biological threats” demonstrated research that fit perfectly within the broader context of medical biodefence, focusing on the use of natural compounds as a potential tool in the fight against biological threats.

Thymol is an essential oil known for its antimicrobial properties. RELIANCE team explores its potential as an antibacterial agent effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The ultimate goal is to investigate how thymol could be applied in the context of public health and emergency biodefence as a natural, safe and effective compound.

In vitro experiments were performed using two standard methods:

MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration)

MBC (Minimum Bactericidal Concentration)

They compared thymol’s activity with that of other essential oils: carvacrol, eugenol, and menthol.

The core of ISBD research focused on a killing test to evaluate the rapid bactericidal activity of thymol against three key bacterial strains: Escherichia coli (Gram-negative), Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive), and Bacillus clausii, a non-pathogenic surrogate for Bacillus anthracis, the bacterium responsible for anthrax.

Their findings were striking: within just 5 minutes of incubation, thymol exhibited 100% bactericidal activity, even at low concentrations. This highlights its strong potential as a rapid-response antimicrobial in biodefence and public safety contexts.

The results obtained with Bacillus clausii are especially significant, suggesting that thymol could be considered a viable alternative or complement to conventional treatments in case of bioterrorism events or natural outbreaks involving high-risk pathogens.

Presenting this work at the conference was an invaluable opportunity to share ideas, receive feedback and connect with researchers from around the world. The level of interest and engagement from attendees reinforced the idea that there’s growing curiosity—and need—for more natural approaches to biodefence.

The second poster was titled “New antimicrobial surfaces based on silica mesoporous nanoparticles functionalized with bioactive compounds”.

These coatings based on silica nanoparticles (SMINs) are modified with copper and carvacrol, an essential oil. The copper ions released from the nanoparticles damage bacteria and viruses by disrupting their cellular structures, while carvacrol enhances this effect by breaking down membranes and DNA. Laboratory tests demonstrated that these nanocoatings are highly effective: they can eliminate 100% of bacteria such as E. coli and S. aureus within just 5 minutes. Additionally, they significantly reduce the presence of SARS-CoV-2, with over 70% reduction observed after one hour of contact. However, their effectiveness against non-enveloped viruses like MS2 is more limited. Overall, this innovative approach offers a promising, eco-friendly solution for creating antimicrobial and antiviral surfaces, contributing to improved hygiene and safety in various settings.

RELIANCE project showcased its promising research at the recent Bioanalytical Chemistry Days held in Rome, Italy, from April 7th to 9th, 2025. A poster titled “Origami paper-based biosensor to SARS CoV-2 on the surface” presented significant progress in the project’s efforts to develop innovative biosensing technologies.

The poster was a collaborative effort between RELIANCE partners from the Department of Chemical Science and Technologies at the University of Rome Tor Vergata (UNITOV) and the Defense Institute for Biomedical Sciences (ISBD). It detailed an adaptation of the project’s paper origami electrochemical sensor for rapid and convenient detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus on surfaces.

A key feature of the presented method is the utilization of magnetic beads as a support for the sandwich-type immunological chain. This approach leverages the high surface-to-volume ratio of the magnetic beads, enabling the loading of a substantial quantity of antibodies and consequently enhancing the sensitivity of the assay.

Download Poster Here

The Bioanalytical Chemistry Days 2025 took place at the distinguished Palazzetto Mattei, the headquarters of the Italian Geographical Society in Rome. The event brought together approximately 100 participants for a comprehensive program that included oral presentations, concise flash talks, expert insights, and a diverse collection of scientific posters. A remarkable moment was an engaging round table discussion with prominent experts from the medical, nutritional and forensic sectors, alongside significant contributions’ award recognition. The event served as a valuable forum for exchanging knowledge and fostering collaboration within the bioanalytical science community.

The development of new materials is a fundamental pillar for the evolution of industrial sectors such as automotive, aeronautics, consumer electronics, infrastructure and healthcare. Research and innovation are essential to improve additives, coatings, resins, paints and inks, optimize processes, and improve processes. Research and innovation are essential to improve additives, coatings, resins, paints and inks, optimize processes, increase efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of the industry.

In this context, the Basque technology centre Tekniker has shown its latest advances in additives, coatings, resins, paints, inks and their characterisation at the European Coatings Show 2025, which took place from March 25 to 27, 2025 in the German city of Nuremberg. The European Coatings Show is the premier trade fair for the coatings industry, organised by Vincentz Network and NürnbergMesse which has brought together manufacturers, distributors and professionals from Europe to explore the latest trends in the sector.

At the European Coatings Show 2025, Tekniker presented at its stand a demonstrator of the research work on smart nanoparticles that it is carrying out within the framework of the RELIANCE project, which is led by them. The action ending in 2026, aims to find a more efficient, cost-effective and safer alternative to the use of traditional biocides in coatings, which is effective in eliminating bacteria, fungi and viruses. Tekniker had also presented their work in another EU-funded project under Horizon Europe program – Nanobloc. – where antimicrobial coatings are also developed for filters, textiles and high-traffic surfaces.

Tekniker’s offer at the fair was complemented by its know-how in additives, resins, adhesives, inks and coatings. See more here: Tekniker presenta innovaciones en materiales avanzados en el European Coatings Show 2025

RELIANCE consortium gathered in Bordeaux end of January 2025, for their fifth consortium meeting, marking an important milestone with just 18 months left before the project’s end. Hosted by Polyrise, the meeting brought together partners to discuss progress across multiple work packages. Some noteworthy advancements include improved repelling properties in hybrid sol-gel nanocoatings, successful scaling-up of nanoparticle formulations, and enhanced deposition techniques for stainless steel, glass and textiles. In the afternoon of the second day of the meeting, Polyrise had kindly organized for the group a tour of their impressive facilities. We enter the forthcoming phase of prototype and functional systems validation at manufacturing level with confidence, while taking faced challenges as valuable learning opportunities that drive scientific innovation forward.

Beyond technical discussions, the consortium enjoyed a rainy and immersive cultural experience in Bordeaux. A guided tour of the historic city landmarks provided insights into its rich and glorious past, complemented by amusing and curious anecdotes about its norms, traditions and beliefs. The evening culminated in a delightful social dinner strengthening the bonds between project partners. We enjoyed lively conversations over a glass of the renowned for its good taste Bordeaux wine and the region’s signature Confit de Canard, a tender duck dish slow-cooked in its own fat.

A special thanks goes to Polyrise for their exceptional organization and hospitality, ensuring a productive and inspiring meeting in Bordeaux. With strong collaboration and continued resolve for success, RELIANCE project remains on track to deliver groundbreaking antimicrobial nanocoatings for healthier environments.

RELIANCE Poster Presentation at FTAL 2024 Conference on Circular Economy

Researchers from Haute Ecole d’Ingénierie et d’Architecture de Fribourg (HEIA-FR) showcased RELIANCE results at FTAL 2024 conference on Circular Economy held in November 2024 at Campus Est, Lugano-Viganello, Switzerland.  With a poster presentation titled “Valorizing Agro-Industrial Waste: Exploring Antimicrobial Peptides Prepared from Feather Keratin”, with lead author Justine Horner, HEIA-FR’s team displayed the progress on studying the potential of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) derived from feather keratin, a waste product of the poultry industry. Different methods for peptides’ extraction and purification had been explored, while taking into consideration their size and structural characteristics in order to optimize their antimicrobial activity. Preliminary results are promising, detecting activity against viruses and Gram-negative bacteria. The work in the coming months will involve chemical coupling of the AMPs with the synthesized nanoparticles and applying them to surfaces though cold atmospheric plasma deposition.  

The Conference organized by the Association of Swiss Schools of Engineering, Architecture and Life Sciences (FTAL) reflects the significance of the circular economy concept, leading to a growing number of governmental, societal and business stakeholders to take major initiatives in their quest for promising cyclical models as an alternative to the current linear ones. More than 200 people attended the conference, validating the paramount importance of circular economy for reducing environmental impact, creating fair economic opportunities and building valuable models capable of facing challenging global dynamics.

The goals of FTAL 2024 Conference on Circular Economy were as follows:

• Promoting exchanges between the different disciplines encompassed by Circular Economy, offering new insights and research challenges.
• Receiving new input from international experts to advance the current research.
• Connecting practitioners and researchers to mutually boost development of grounded theories and their application.
• Presenting the state-of-the-art of circular frameworks and solutions.

Presentations included the state of the art of today’s research but also addressed topics such as resource efficiency, value retention, localization, circular environment, circular bioeconomy and other new business, production and market approaches.

The 2024^th edition of the Environmental Chemistry Congress (EnviroChem) took place from November 5 to 8, 2024, at the Karadeniz Technical University, Osman Turan Congress Centre in Trabzon, Turkey.

Hosted by the Turkish Chemist Society, this gathering focused on various environmental chemistry fields, drawing experts and researchers worldwide to discuss challenges and advancements in pollution management, sustainable materials, toxicology, and more. Beyond the main sessions, the program encompassed oral and poster sessions, with awards for top posters, as well as stand areas for networking accompanied by refreshments.

The RELIANCE project was represented by Prof. Fabiana Arduini, from the University of Rome Tor Vergata (UNITOV), who participated as an invited speaker. The congress united an audience of about one hundred professionals, researchers, and students, with several backgrounds, all united in the perfect setting that encouraged an engaging and collaborative atmosphere.

The main topics of the conferences included:

• Air Chemistry and Pollution 
• Water Chemistry and Pollution
• Toxicological Chemistry
• Waste Minimization, Utilization, and Treatment
• Green Chemistry and Industrial Ecology
• Sources and Sustainable Materials, Energy
• Analysis and Monitoring.

Titled “Nanomodified Paper-Based Electrochemical (Bio)sensors for Smart and Sustainable Environmental Analyses”, Fabiana Arduini shared her research journey and findings on developing innovative electrochemical devices that are both efficient and eco-friendly. This topic aligns closely with the themes of Analysis and Monitoring and Green Chemistry, as it addresses the need for sustainable yet highly effective tools for environmental monitoring.

The focus of Prof. Fabiana’s presentation was on paper-based electrochemical (bio)sensors, which provided significant benefits compared to traditional sensors, especially regarding sustainability and functionality. This technology became an attractive option because of its eco-friendly design, which removed the necessity for non-biodegradable materials like polyester and permits incineration after use, thus minimizing waste. In contrast to conventional sensors, these paper-based devices can be easily combined with vertical microfluidics, serving as reservoirs for advanced sensing capabilities.

At the conference, Fabiana Arduini shared the results obtained in the RELIANCE project, highlighting the most recent outcomes of our research efforts. RELIANCE has played a crucial role in advancing this technology, supporting the development of nano-modified sensors that can accurately detect essential oils (used as disinfectants), while maintaining a low ecological footprint. These developments have generated significant interest from the public, who are keen to learn about the technological and practical implications of our work.

This presentation and the following discussion emphasized the importance of sustainable sensing technology in tackling environmental issues. She highlighted the potential of these devices to fill critical gaps in monitoring capabilities, especially as regulatory standards for pollution detection become more rigorous. The feedback from the audience stimulated fresh ideas and viewpoints in her ongoing research.

This conference also served as a reminder of the crucial role that environmental chemistry plays in shaping a sustainable future.

Taking place from 20 to 23 October 2024 in Brno, Czech Republic, the 2^nd BioExcel Conference on Advances in Biomolecular Simulations brought together the biomolecular research community to explore the latest trends, updates and challenges in the fields of integrative modelling, free energy and drug design, workflows, automation and data integration.

The event encompassed topics including Molecular Dynamics, Free Energy Calculations, Integrative Modelling, Force Field Development, Coarse-Graining, QM/MM, AI, Applications of Biomolecular Simulation Methods, and more. It gathered a wide range of stakeholders, including academics and researchers ranging from chemists, chemical engineers, and biologists to computer and information scientists.

The RELIANCE project was represented by our partners from the University of Patras (UPAT) who did an oral and poster presentation at the conference. Georgios Leonis shared the current research outcomes of RELIANCE regarding the computational modeling of specific bio- and nanostructures as promising antimicrobial agents. He outlined the modes of interaction between biologically relevant structures (i.e., essential oils, copper-based nanoparticles) and proteins that directly modulate antimicrobial actions. Furthermore, he explained how these results paved the way for significant advances in the rational design of novel compounds with optimal antimicrobial activity and elucidated the correlation between the molecular mechanism of action and physiological responses to pathogens.

During the poster session, Katerina Karadima also presented an overview of the team’s work developed within RELIANCE activities. She delved into the structural dynamics of keratin-derived antimicrobial peptides (KAMPs) in both dilute and semi-dilute solutions, highlighting recent findings on their interactions with model Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial membranes. Additionally, she explored the stability of pre-assembled pores and the role of KAMPs integrated into the bilayer membrane.

You can find the poster developed by UPAT and the abstracts they produced in our Conference Abstracts and Posters section.