Versailles project on advanced materials and standards (VAMAS)

Pre‐standards research—also called pre‐normative research—is necessary in the case of advanced materials because traditional tests are simply not suitable for these materials. The pace at which they enter the market place requires the rapid development of novel approaches to measurement and performance evaluation. VAMAS exists to remove barriers to trade in new technologies by addressing this need for research on which to base international standards. VAMAS's aims and organization are described, and a case study is outlined.