LACISE project representatives participate in the kick-off of the Swiss-Latvian Cooperation Programme ‘Applied Research’ sibling project
Photo: Ieva Romaško
On May 22, the Swiss-Latvian Cooperation Programme ‘Applied Research’ project LACHMAT was officially launched at Riga Technical University (RTU). The opening event was attended by Andris Anspoks, director of the LACISE project’s coordinating institution—the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia—and Maija Bebre, administrative coordinator.
During the event, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between RTU, Latvian State Roads (Latvijas Valsts Ceļi), the Latvian Concrete Association (Latvijas Betona Savienība), and the Latvian Road Builders Association (Latvijas Ceļu Būvētājs). The signatories committed to supporting RTU in developing advanced, sustainable concrete and asphalt technologies tailored to market needs.
The LACHMAT project is implemented collaboratively by RTU’s Faculties of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, Science and Technology, and Computer Science, Information Technology and Energy, in partnership with the Swiss Federal Laboratory for Materials Science and Technology (Empa).
The project will run until 2029, fostering close cooperation among RTU researchers across various faculties and Empa scientists. The collaboration aims to develop and accelerate market-ready technologies for reusing road pavements and incorporating bio-based additives in asphalt, advancing environmentally friendly practices in road construction. Specific goals include developing high-performance sprayed concrete to extend bridge lifespans and reduce reconstruction needs, and creating sensor technologies embedded in roadway surfaces to monitor pavement conditions and traffic patterns. These sensors will also contribute to climate adaptation strategies through data collection. Additionally, scientists will work on promoting the sustainability of 3D-printed concrete by developing mixes using locally sourced minerals.
The ‘Applied Research’ programme is part of Switzerland’s contribution to support EU member states in fostering scientific excellence, innovation, and economic growth. With a total fund of €12.3 million, it aims to enhance Latvia’s research capacity, promote innovation, and strengthen international collaboration.
More information about the LACHMAT project.