The main goal for this new line of development is to test new materials from a nanotechnology point of view and apply them in the components used in the footwear industry. We can then easily obtain new or better properties, which could increase competitiveness for the regional footwear industry through a clear technological differentiation of their products.

The main goals from this action are:

-          Identification of the possible applications of nanotechnology in the footwear industry.

-          Analysis of plan feasibility

-          Development of internal industrial research projects

-          Punctual projects to respond to the specific needs of a company through nanotechnology procedures and development.

Throughout 2009, the CTCR launched a new line of investigation on nanotechnology; incorporated a product line manager, a technician of analysis and control and, in 2010, an expert in chemistry. In order to give them a suitable environment, the CTCR restructured its laboratories.

Nanotechnology is the action field of applied sciences, dedicated to the control and manipulation of matter on a scale between 1 and 100 nanometers, that is, at atomic and molecular levels.

The progress in this field in the last years is due to the interest provoked by the unusual properties found in these materials, far different from other types of known materials. These properties depend on the size and shape of the specific nano-particles: the smaller their size, the wider their surface area and their reactivity. Consequently, the smaller quantity of material, the better the results obtained. Furthermore, mass at a small scale is dominated by the so called 'quantum effect', which provokes the apparition of new properties, unknown until now, in the materials we normally use. As a result, nanotechnology allows us to create products with new properties with a commercial interest.

At present, the CTCR is working on various investigation projects to develop new materials, and manufacture footwear with new properties; especially in safety footwear.

Also, it is working individually with various companies on the development of specific solutions adapted to their particular needs.

Should you be interested in how nanotechnology can optimize the functionality of your products, you can request a meeting with the manager at the department, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..