Development of an innovative device for protection against atmospheres contaminated with chemical, biological, and nuclear pollutants (F2)

Beneficiary: Šela proizvodnja d.o.o.

Partner: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Zagreb

Brief Project Description

The implementation of this project enabled the development of a device for purifying air from chemical, biological, or nuclear contaminants. The development of the device involved designing an efficient atmospheric filtration system that ensures a high level of air quality. A tested and highly reliable method was applied to protect against the ingress of contaminated air into the protected space. The device is primarily intended to protect smaller spaces, particularly households, located near major sources of pollution or infrastructure associated with a high risk of environmental incidents with negative consequences for air quality.

The project was implemented in two phases, with the implementation periods of each phase as follows:

1. Industrial research: 01 July 2020 – 01 July 2022
2. Experimental development: 01 July 2022 – 01 July 2023.

The project consisted of the following project activities:

• A1 Industrial research;
• A2 Experimental development;
• A3 Dissemination of research results;
• PM Project management;
• PV Promotion and visibility.

Project Objectives and Expected Results

The objective of the project was to develop an innovative device for protection against an atmosphere contaminated with chemical, biological, and nuclear pollutants through investments by the Beneficiary and Partner in research and development activities within the thematic priority area “Security”, sub-thematic area “Defence Technologies and Dual-Use Products”, in cooperation with a scientific research organization (Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture in Zagreb).

The primary objective of the project was to develop and adapt components, including the device housing, motor with turbine, filter assembly, sensors, control system, battery, electronics, and control system, and integrate them into a functional prototype of a new device. The secondary objective was to increase the company’s capacity for research and development activities, establish effective cooperation with the scientific and research sector, and create the basis for future innovation development activities.

The implementation of the project has had a positive impact on the Beneficiary’s business for several reasons, including:

• Increased investment in research and development (the company had not previously invested in R&D, while through this project it invested EUR 797,872.35 of its own funds in development activities);
• Establishment of effective cooperation with the scientific and research sector;
• Transformation of the company through the introduction of a new production segment by combining its own R&D, engineering, and production capacities;
• Introduction of a new, innovative product to the market;
• Introduction of a new product into the company’s product portfolio;
• Increased future sales revenue from the new product;
• Increased exports generated by sales of the new product;
• Increase in the number of employees;
• Creation of future research and development capacities.

Through the implementation and completion of this project, the Beneficiary also protected its intellectual property through:

• Patent application for the device;
• Trademark application for the protection of the device’s visual identity and brand.

Total Project Value and EU Co-Financing Amount (in EUR)

Total project value: EUR 2,716,882.45
Total project value (eligible costs): EUR 2,450,217.41
EU contribution to project financing: EUR 1,805,613.26

Project Implementation Period

01 July 2020 – 01 July 2023.

Contact for further information

e-mail: sela@sela.hr
Links
strukturnifondovi.hr
https://strukturnifondovi.hr/eu-fondovi/esi-fondovi-2014-2020/op-konkurentnost-i-kohezija/