Scientists who come across results during their research that they did not expect can sometimes do nothing with it. After all, it was not in the research plan. To still work out these unexpected discoveries, the NWO is awarding a small top-up of up to 30,000 euros per project to seven projects through the Impact Explorer call. Two TU/e projects have been honored.
FibChem: Fiber sensors for microchemistry - Andrea Fiore
In-line sensors are essential enablers to enhance efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability in chemical and biochemical production. However, current sensing technologies often prove inadequate for emerging production methods, particularly those involving miniaturized reactors, due to their size and cost.
This project explores the potential of an affordable fibre sensing technology developed at TU/e to address the evolving sensing needs of these sectors. Our approach includes market research, interviews with relevant stakeholders, and the development of an in-line sensing system prototype. The ultimate goal is to drive the transformation towards more sustainable production processes, addressing the needs associated with novel production technologies."
"The unexpected result that originated our NWO Impact Explorer proposal is a new way of reading out the optical signal from a fiber sensor. Usually high-end instrumentation with high spectral resolution is used for this purpose, but we realized that this can be done with a simple integrated chip."
"This could lead to much cheaper optical sensing systems. In the NWO Impact Explorer project we will develop a prototype and explore potential markets for these sensors, particularly in the area of miniaturized (bio)chemical reactors."
Assigning bodyguards to individuals: from (game) theory to practice - Loe Schlicher
More and more people are being threatened and, in some cases, even murdered in the Netherlands, while capacity for individual protection (e.g., bodyguards) remains scarce. In this project, mathematical models developed for optimal deployment of protection will be tested at the Dutch National Police, using serious gaming.
A workshop with policy makers will also be organised to discuss options for implementing these models. This project will contribute to a more effective deployment of individual protection capacity and as such improve national security.
Schlicher and his co-researchers will sit down with the police: "This way we will see how our mathematical models can improve the system monitoring and securing. With the use of board games, we want to convince the police of our developed models."
About Impact Explorer
The grant is intended for activities to validate the potential societal impact of discoveries from more curiosity-driven research, from the Talent Line and Open Competitions of both NWO and ZonMw and to explore a route towards it. A total of €1.000.000 is available for small grants between €20.000 and €30.000. A concise procedure will be used during the application process. Currently no new applications can be submitted.
