Elastomers are soft rubber bands that can completely change shape and return to their original form afterwards.
”Anne Ladegaard Skov’s work is a fine example of use-inspired research that is very relevant to society,” says Executive Director Kim Nøhr Skibsted.
Anne Ladegaard Skov’s research is important both to the oil industry and the medical industry. Photo: Christian Carlsson (DTU)
Anne Ladegaard Skov’s research contributed to development of new materials such as dielectric elastomers that turn electrical energy into movement (artificial muscles) and silicone-based elastomers, used in electronics, robot technology, and skin or wound care products. Dielektric elastomers give us the possibility to develop a wide range of products like eye implants, artificial skin, or wave energy harvesting facilities.
Silicone elastomers are reusable and easy to shape with short processing time and low energy consumption. This means a reduction in waste as discharge is reusable. In turn, this means better product quality and resource economy, very important for the green transition.
2022 Grundfos Prize Lecture – Anne Ladegaard Skov from Grundfos Foundation | PDJF on Vimeo.
Of Anne Ladegaard Skov’s 13 patents, seven have been commercialised. Further, she has a many partnerships across the academic and industrial world.
DKK 1 million
The Grundfos Prize consists of the sculpture “Be-Think-Innovate” by artist Flemming Brylle and a cash payment of DKK 1 million, of which DKK 250,000 goes directly to the recipient of the prize, whilst the remaining DKK 750,000 is allocated to further research in the field.
”This recognition is very important for me, both personally and professionally. I want to stress that this is also due to the work and dedication of the many colleagues and students who are part of the success,” says Anne Ladegaard Skov.
She already knows what to do with the research grant:
”I want to explore some of the wild ideas from my drawer in the lab, like injectable implants, to see if the ideas hold water or not.”
Target: rising stars
The Grundfos Prize was established by the Grundfos Foundation in 2001 with the purpose of promoting, acknowledging and supporting national and international research and solutions that are useful to society.
Since 2018, the Foundation has targeted young researchers under the theme “The Stars of Tomorrow”.
Since 2018, the Grundfos Prize has been targeted young researchers. Photo: Lars Holm