Personal Information
- Name: Dionisis Semitekolos
- Position/Title: Project Manager & Researcher
- Department: R-Nano Lab NTUA
Professional Background
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Briefly describe your professional background and area of expertise:
I have a background in engineering with extensive experience in project management, particularly in the field of composite materials and recycling technologies. My expertise lies in developing processes for surface modification of carbon fibres.
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What inspired you to pursue a career in this related field, e.g., composite materials recycling?:
My inspiration to pursue a career in composite materials recycling stemmed from a combination of personal passion for sustainability and the growing global need to address environmental challenges. Early in my career, I became aware of the significant impact that waste and inefficient resource use have on our planet. The idea of contributing to a field that not only mitigates these issues but also promotes a circular economy was incredibly motivating.
The idea of contributing to a field that not only mitigates environmental issues but also promotes a circular economy was incredibly motivatin
Role in EURECOMP
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What is your role in the EURECOMP project?:
As the Project Technical Manager, I oversee the technical aspects of the EURECOMP project. I’m also involved in studying and upgrading the performance of recycled fibres through sizing process.
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Can you describe your main responsibilities and tasks?
My main responsibilities include coordinating the technical team, managing project timelines, ensuring the technical objectives are met, and align project goals. As R Nano NTUA we receive all the recycled carbon fibres from recyclers and I’m responsible for optimizing their performance by developing our custom sizing solutions that improves their wetting behaviors with epoxy resins.
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How does your work contribute to the overall goals of the EURECOMP project?:
My work ensures that the technical solutions developed are feasible and align with the project's sustainability goals, contributing to the overall success of EURECOMP.
The diverse composition of composite wastes highlights the need for implementing digital product passports for new products
Project Insights
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What do you find most exciting about working on the EURECOMP project?:
The most exciting aspect of working on the EURECOMP project is the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse team of experts and to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in composite material recycling.
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What has been the most challenging aspect of your work on this project?
The most challenging aspect of recycling so far has been the unknown and diverse composition of composite wastes, which intensifies the need for implementing digital product passports for new products. Furthermore, maintaining fiber performance and length has been another challenge, highlighting the significance of adopting the design-for-circularity approach.
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Can you share a significant milestone or achievement your team has reached so far?
Through sizing we were able to maintain almost 90% of the recycled fibres tensile strength.
Through sizing, we were able to maintain almost 90% of the recycled fibres
Personal Experience
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What have you learned during your time working on EURECOMP?:
Working on EURECOMP has deepened my understanding of sustainable technologies and reinforced the importance of collaboration in achieving project goals.
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How has this project influenced your professional development?:
his project has significantly influenced my professional development by enhancing my project management skills and expanding my knowledge in advanced recycling technologies.
Fun Facts
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What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I love winter hiking, gardening and video games.
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Share a fun fact about yourself that your colleagues might not know:
My dog, Chori, and I share the same fear of insects. Sometimes we sleep on the couch together (but you shouldn't tell you-know-who 🤫).
Closing Thoughts
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Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience with the EURECOMP project?:
Being part of the EURECOMP project has been a rewarding experience, and I am excited to see the long-term impact of our work on sustainability and recycling technologies.