JEC Innovation Award 2026

The JEC Composites Innovation Awards are celebrating their 28th anniversary and recognize collaborative projects and innovations that demonstrate the potential of composite materials. During the JEC World Premiere on January 12th, the awards were dubbed ‘the Oscars of the composites industry’ Since their inception, more than 2,200 companies have participated; 269 companies and 811 partners have been recognized for their collaboration and innovative achievements.

Ceramic paving against heavy rainfall

Devastating floods in Valencia have highlighted the urgency of adapting to climate change. With EU support, an innovation has been developed in the region: ceramic t iles that allow for rapid water drainage. This paving helps cities better cope with extreme rainfall and thus reduce the risk of flooding.

Underwater 3D printing with concrete

Researchers at Cornell University are developing a technique to 3D print concrete underwater using robotic arms. The method is intended for the construction and maintenance of maritime infrastructure such as ports and pipelines. Printing directly on-site reduces the need for extensive excavation and pouring work from the surface, which could significantly change the construction process.

Man-made material on scottish beaches

Research from the University of Glasgow shows that beaches along the Firth of Forth are largely composed of man-made materials. This changes the perception of their natural composition. The study demonstrates that human influence extends beyond visible pollution and that coarser, man-made materials also significantly alter natural landscapes.

Sustainable geomaterials from recycled plastics

The reuse of plastics is crucial for a sustainable economy, but recyclates are often of insufficient quality. Researchers from various Fraunhofer Institutes are developing methods to make recycled plastics suitable for high-quality applications, such as geo synthetics and roofing underlayments, by reducing contamination and quality issues.