Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or of the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Project name: Artificial intelligence enhanced, sustainable growth of rare-earth materials based laser crystals
Duration: October 2023 / December 2025
Total budget: Euro 4.289.058,09
EU Contribution: Euro 3.002.340,67
Call: I3-2021-INV2a
Topic: I3-2021-INV2a-MANU
Internal contacts
Samuel Nazzareno Monaco – samuel.monaco@afil.it
Website
Project objectives
The main objective of the SMART-Growth project is the application of the Zero-Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) approach, using Artificial Intelligence (AI), in the production processes of synthetic crystals used for industrial applications, such as in the semiconductor industry, and for photonics applications, such as laser sources.
The sector is characterized by highly hostile process conditions, with significant risks of contamination, process parameters that are difficult to measure and control, and long production times. Moreover, it heavily depends on the use of costly rare earth materials and consumes a substantial amount of energy. Additionally, there are numerous process parameters that are difficult to measure and control. For these reasons, SMART-Growth aims to introduce Artificial Intelligence into synthetic crystal production processes to achieve: increased crystal yield, leading to higher efficiency; a significant reduction in energy consumption and material waste, lowering both costs and environmental impact; and improved quality of the grown crystals, ensuring more consistent and reliable production.
The role of AFIL
AFIL plays a key role in the SMART-Growth project by creating connections and synergies between projects, initiatives, and existing networks within the European Union. This facilitates collaboration, the sharing of knowledge and best practices, and the optimal development of crystal growth technologies for industrial and photonics applications.
Opportunities for AFIL Members
Overall, AFIL’s participation in SMART-Growth creates a favorable environment for the Cluster Members, offering opportunities for networking, visibility, learning, and technological development in the field of crystal and photonics technologies.
Through the network of connections facilitated by AFIL, Members can establish contacts with other European innovation actors and have access to the activities of synergetic projects. These interactions, in turn, promote collaborations, knowledge exchange, and the development of technological synergies, with positive impacts on efficiency, quality, and sustainability of production processes.