16-07-2025
NOVA FCT has once again stood out for its ability to generate innovation with real impact. The GeoCura project, developed by four Erasmus Mundus students from the Master's in Advanced Materials and Innovative Recycling, was the grand winner of the latest edition of the Demo Day of NOVA impACT! Challenges, an initiative promoted by the NOVA Impact Office at the Universidade NOVA de Lisboa to support solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The tea, composed of Huseyin Cetinkaya, Mavis Olorunyomi, Fabiola Dodaj, and Shah Saud, presented an innovative self-healing concrete capable of autonomously repairing cracks and structural damage. Designed for the construction sector, this technology can significantly reduce CO₂ emissions associated with cement, lower maintenance costs, and extend infrastructure durability.
Developed with mentorship from Luís Baltazar and Fernanda Lussá, professores at NOVA FCT, the project targets a market valued at 14 billion euros and directly contributes to SDGs 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and 13 (Climate Action). The team was awarded a prize of €2,000 to support the solution’s development.
Also with active participation from NOVA FCT, an honorable mention was given to the EcoSeal project, which included Afonso Mendes (NOVA FCT), Selina Hartmann, and Paula Reimold (Nova SBE). The team presented a “Do It Yourself” Energy Saving Kit that helps families identify and correct energy inefficiencies at home. Available for free two-week loans through partnerships with community organizations, the kit includes tools and educational materials that promote energy literacy, thermal comfort, and reduced energy costs.
Mentored by Rafael Rodrigues, the EcoSeal proposal contributes to SDGs 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 11, 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and 13.
In total, 33 students organized in multidisciplinary teams participated, benefiting over three weeks from specialized training, dedicated mentorship, and initial funding of €500 to develop their prototypes.
This result confirms the School's role as a driver of talent, innovation, and sustainability, preparing its students to address major global challenges with concrete and transformative solutions.
