SciTransfer
JOULIA · Project

Electric Heating Solutions for Rubber, Plastics, and Ceramics to Replace Fossil Fuels

manufacturingPilotedTRL 7

Imagine replacing a giant gas oven with a high-tech microwave or a magnetic heater that only warms the material, not the air around it. This makes heating rubber or glue much faster and uses far less energy. It is like switching from a slow stovetop to a precise induction hob for industrial factories.

By the numbers
16
partners
7
countries
69%
industry ratio
7
TRL level
The business problem

What needed solving

Industrial heating for rubber and plastics relies heavily on fossil fuel combustion, leading to high carbon footprints and energy inefficiency. Companies struggle to transition to electricity without losing process control or increasing costs.

The solution

What was built

Two electric-heating processes using induction and microwaves, supported by digital models for simulation and a predictive maintenance tool.

Audience

Who needs this

Rubber vulcanization plantsMultilayer pipe manufacturersIndustrial ceramics producersLarge-scale food processing facilities
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Rubber and Plastics
any
Target: Rubber product manufacturer

If you are a rubber producer dealing with high carbon emissions from vulcanization — this project developed induction and microwave heating systems that increase energy efficiency. These tools allow for faster production and better integration of renewable energy.

Pipe Manufacturing
any
Target: Multilayer pipe producer

If you are a pipe manufacturer dealing with inefficient glue thermal activation — this project developed a contactless heating process that optimizes cost and control. It uses digital models to fine-tune the process for better quality and lower energy waste.

Ceramics and Food
any
Target: Industrial kiln or food processing plant

If you are a ceramics or food producer dealing with fossil fuel dependence — this project developed replicable electrified heating solutions. These systems are designed to be scaled up to meet new market opportunities for decarbonization.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

What is the estimated cost or price of these systems?

Based on available project data, specific pricing is not provided, but the project includes technical and economic studies (TEA and LCC) to determine cost optimization.

At what industrial scale is the technology being tested?

The systems are being validated at TRL7, which indicates testing in an industrial environment. The project specifically targets mid-temperature manufacturing processes.

How is the intellectual property or licensing handled?

Based on available project data, the project focuses on developing new business models and validating solutions, but specific licensing terms are not listed.

How does this integrate with existing factory setups?

The project uses digital models and process simulations to ensure the heating systems are adaptable and can be controlled within the industrial process.

What is the timeline for deployment?

The project runs from 2024-12-01 to 2028-11-30, with validation and replicability assessments occurring during this period.

Consortium

Who built it

The project is heavily industry-driven, with 11 out of 16 partners being industrial entities (a 69% ratio). This strong commercial presence, combined with 4 SMEs and partners from 7 different countries, suggests a high focus on commercial viability and cross-border industrial application rather than pure academic research.

How to reach the team

Contact FUNDACION CIRCE in Spain for technical specifications on induction and microwave heating.

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to connect with the JOULIA consortium for TRL7 pilot implementation.

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