Technology is enabling us to measure and understand the human body in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago. Today, even a simple drop of sweat can become a source of valuable data. Biosensors based on sweat analysis, for example, can monitor physiological parameters such as muscular fatigue in real time. This kind of innovation has the potential to transform how athletes train, recover and prevent injuries. This was one of the key insights emerging from the visit of the European Platform for Sport Innovation to GREEnMat at the University of Liège.
A strong foundation in advanced materials
GREEnMat’s core activities focus on advanced materials, including powders and films, with applications across energy, environment and health. Their work combines research, teaching and innovation, with particular attention to technology development and intellectual property. While sport is a relatively new application field, the potential is already clear.
Opportunities? For sure
During the discussion, several areas emerged as particularly relevant:
- biosensors based on sweat analysis for real-time monitoring
- surface electromyography techniques for performance tracking
- video analysis applications in elite sport
- 3D printing technologies for sport solutions
These technologies open the door to more data-driven, personalised and preventive approaches in sport.
Collaboration at the core: projects and business
A key strength of GREEnMat is its ability to leverage cross-disciplinary collaboration within the university, enabling connections across different fields and accelerating innovation. By joining EPSI, GREEnMat aims to expand its activities at European level, identifying partners and developing collaborative projects in the sport domain.
The next steps
EPSI will support GREEnMat in identifying relevant partners within the network, positioning its expertise in EU-funded programmes such as Horizon Europe, and facilitating connections with key stakeholders. The next phase will focus on defining concrete project ideas and priority application areas. This collaboration represents a clear example of how advanced materials and sport innovation can converge to create new value, starting from something as simple, and as powerful, as a drop of sweat.