UC studies key issues to improve energy efficiency in industrial equipment
TRIBOS+ is a European Master's programme launched in 2015 and funded by the European Union.
The Department of Mechanical Engineering (DEM) of the Faculty of Sciences and Technology of the University of Coimbra (FCTUC) is conducting research in tribology through the Joint European Master's Degree in Surface and Interface Tribology (TRIBOS+). Tribology, the science that studies the interactions between material surfaces affecting friction, wear, and lubrication, is critical for maintaining and improving mechanical systems. It plays a key role in increasing energy efficiency and extending the lifespan of equipment.
TRIBOS+ is a European Master's programme launched in 2015 and funded by the European Union. Its main objective is to equip students with advanced knowledge in tribology, preparing the next generation of engineers to develop sustainable solutions for the complex, interdisciplinary tribology-related challenges we face today. "This joint, multidisciplinary programme focuses on tribological surfaces, interfaces, lubricants, lubrication, wear and friction mechanisms (both nano- and macroscale), as well as computation and simulation," explains Bruno Trindade, lecturer at DEM/FCTUC and researcher at the Centre for Mechanical, Materials, and Process Engineering (CEMMPRE).
TRIBOS+ involves a consortium of 4 universities, from culturally contrasting regions of Europe, built on many years of successful interaction, with scientists and engineers who complement and understand each other, and who will strive to educate the TRIBOS+ master-level students to become Europe’s future leaders in sustainable engineering, green tribology and circular economy. "The involvement of these universities in this programme has made it possible to integrate the whole range of tribology subfields needed for engineering solutions in various sectors, such as the transport and energy industries, making a positive contribution to society's environmental and socio-economic aspects," adds Trindade.
The nine editions of this MSc have attracted 120 students from 15 countries on four continents. At the University of Coimbra, CEMMPRE professors and researchers participated in the programme, teaching second-year master's courses and supervising students' research for their master's theses.
TRIBOS+ received a total of €20 million in funding from the European Union over its nine years.