Projects / Programmes
Micro- and nanostructured functional materials: development, physical-chemical characterization and simulation of processes
January 1, 2004
- December 31, 2008
| Code |
Science |
Field |
Subfield |
| 1.04.00 |
Natural sciences and mathematics |
Chemistry |
|
| 2.04.00 |
Engineering sciences and technologies |
Materials science and technology |
|
| Code |
Science |
Field |
| T152 |
Technological sciences |
Composite materials |
nanocomposites, nanostructures, energy storage, implantable materials, controlled drug release, material degradation, modeling of structure and reactivity, electronic states, photodissociation, catalytic processes, surface properties, surface science
Researchers (22)
Organisations (2)
Abstract
The program is focused on interdisciplinary study of nanostructures with unusual physical-chemical properties which have strong potential for application in next generation of materials for energy storage sector, pharmacy, medicine and ecology.
Particle size minimization in granular materials and their organization on mesoscopic level may result in unusual but, occasionally, very useful physical-chemical properties of such materials. Here the so-called trivial (geometrical) effects, such as increase in total surface area or shortening of transport paths during chemical or electrochemical reactions, are only the simplest aspect. More importantly, when the particles become small enough, one is confronted with interwining of phenomena, which are usually individually observed in materials science studies, cluster chemistry and low-dimension physics. An example is the change of electronic structure observed with particles smaller than about 100 nm. On lower scales (below ca 10 nm), we also expect a change in ionic properties, in reactivity and, least but not last, in chemical bonding (change in mechanical properties, melting point etc.).
The scope of the program is threefold: (i) to understand the size effects of non-interacting nano-particles on the ionic and chemical properties of the particles, (ii) to prepare and investigate nanostructured materials being composed of wired particles (energy storage material) and (iii) to find whether it is possible, using the top-down approach, to assemble a wired nano-structure in which individual particles will have their own address (artificial memory)
In the program, upstream (basic) and downstream (applied) research are well balanced so that, according to our belief, it has both breakthrough potential and transfer promise.
Significance for science
We have achieved several scientific breakthroughs, all of which are published in high quality scientific journals (impact factors between 3 and 8). 1. We have invented 2 entirely novel materials for potential use as electrodes in Li ion batteries. 2. We have invented a new synthetic procedure for electrochemical wiring of poorly conductive active materials. 3. We have explained the mechanism of formation of multiphase wired nanoarchitectures in LiFePO4-electrodes based on a citrate-precursor method. 4. We have explained the mechanism of general electrochemical reactions occurring on platinum in the presence of inactive adsorbates. 5. We explained the influence of phase boundaries (interfaces) on the electrochemical transport in general polycrystalline and selected multiphase solids. 6. We identified and explained a new type of charge storage at the interfaces in nanocrystyalline solids (interfacial storage). 7. We have explained the nature of electronic transitions and possible photodissociation processes. 8. We have described the nature of N2O bonding in detail. 9. We have explained the N2O removal mechanism by metal catalysts. 10. We have explained various aspects of corrosion processes on selected alloys. 11. Were identified degradation mechanisms and long-term survivorship in Co- and Ti-based alloys and stainless steel (biomedical alloys) 12. We have invented selected procedures for coating of drug particles with the aim of preventing unpleasant taste. 13. Using modeling on continuum level, we showed that encapsulation of drugs into microporous materials leads to stabilization of drug in its amorphous state, 14. We developed several methods for preparation of drug composites with improved precision of temporal and spatial release.
Significance for the country
Knowledge is of crucial importance for development of any modern society and, thus, for Slovenia. This fact was more and more acknowledged also by Slovenian companies which during the program realization tried to establish more frequent and stronger contacts with our researchers. For example, during the past few years the present research team has continuously cooperated with a number of Slovenian companies such as Krka, Lek, Iskratela, Atotech, Belinka, Jub. The companies have typically expressed wishes to solve particular practical problems. We have demonstrated that solutions to many such practical problems can be found if the research group fosters in-depth knowledge, even if this knowledge is not directly corelated with the specific problem. For example, based on our in-depth understanding of Li ion batteries, we have effectively solved an accute problem in zinc alkaline batteries (produced by a battery company Iskratela). Although both battery types are very different in structure and composition and, even in mode of operation, the fundamental principles are the same. Similar results have been achieved in the fields of pharmaceutical materials and materials for paint industry. The knowledge developed within the Programme has been carried on to the society also through education of young people (in the frame of Diploma and Ph. D. Theses, postoc studies etc.). Being firmly integrated into international projects, networks etc., the Programme certainly has contributed to better international visibility of Slovenia.
Most important scientific results
Final report,
complete report on dLib.si
Most important socioeconomically and culturally relevant results
Final report,
complete report on dLib.si
