Projects / Programmes
Synthesis and characterisation of novel nanostructures based on transition metals
| Code |
Science |
Field |
Subfield |
| 1.04.00 |
Natural sciences and mathematics |
Chemistry |
|
| Code |
Science |
Field |
| P360 |
Natural sciences and mathematics |
Inorganic chemistry |
Inorganic chemistry, nanomaterials, nanostructures, transition metals, nanotubes, fullerenes, nanowires
Researchers (5)
| no. |
Code |
Name and surname |
Research area |
Role |
Period |
No. of publicationsNo. of publications |
| 1. |
26152 |
Boštjan Berčič |
Physics |
Technical associate |
2008 - 2011 |
20 |
| 2. |
22288 |
PhD Matija Milanič |
Physics |
Researcher |
2009 - 2011 |
247 |
| 3. |
15288 |
PhD Aleš Mrzel |
Chemistry |
Head |
2008 - 2011 |
286 |
| 4. |
18691 |
PhD Lea Spindler |
Physics |
Researcher |
2008 - 2009 |
151 |
| 5. |
18275 |
PhD Mojca Vilfan |
Physics |
Researcher |
2008 - 2011 |
159 |
Organisations (1)
| no. |
Code |
Research organisation |
City |
Registration number |
No. of publicationsNo. of publications |
| 1. |
0106 |
Jožef Stefan Institute |
Ljubljana |
5051606000 |
90,753 |
Abstract
The main focus of the project will be the synthesis and characterization of novel nanostructures based on transition metals. The first task will be the systematic synthesis and characterization of the new nanowires MxChyIz (M is transition metal Mo, Nb; Ch is chalcogen S, Se..) with various ratios between the sulphur and the selenium as well as between the molybdenum and niobium in the structure. The research is expected to result in nanowires with improved conductivity in comparison to the basic material Mo6S3I6 which can be used in a number of possible applications including nanoelectronic. In 2007 we report on the first synthesis of MoS2 peapods based on sulphurization of nanowires. On the base of this new synthetic route, which is under patent protection, all synthesized nanowires will be used as a precursor material in an attempt to obtain novel nanotubes and peapods of transition metals dichalcogenides, potentially useful on exciting possibilities, among them also in nanoelectronics. Further, transition metals dichalcogenides in applications as lubricants, in catalysis, in polymer composites, in solar energy systems and in other industrial products, give hope for a prompt use of these novel nanostructures. In order to additionally functionalize the synthesized nanostructures, we will attach to them specific ligands with thiol groups (e.g. proteins) with the aim to prepare new biosensors.The synthesised nanostructures will also be used for the preparation of new composite materials due to the improvement of their mechanical properties in comparison to the properties of polymeric matrix
The mechanical, transport and tribological properties of novel nanostructures and theirs derivative will be determined.
Significance for science
Research within the project was included synthesis and characterization of mechanical, electrical and magnetic properties of novel nanostructures based on transition metals. We improve the existing synthesis procedure and by using the optimized production method, we are able to control the morphology of MoS2 nanostructures. The basic structure of the nanotubes, mamatubes of MoS2 remain unchanged in comparison with existing MoSI nanowires, which serve as a precursor material, but we expect enhanced physical properties, which are of great importance in industrial applications like tribological properties. In order to confirm our predictions, we used several different spectroscopic and microscopic methods to quantitatively characterize physical properties of the new nanostructures. The results show that the nanotubes, synthesized by this method, exhibit exceptional properties (they can be several mm long and have great mechanical stability), which cannot be achieved using standard preparation procedure. We report the preparation, structure characterization, and application of new molybdenum oxide nanowires synthesized by heating of the MoSI nanowirea in the air. The morphology of the starting nanowires are retained. New MoO3-x nanowires are promising candidates for lithium intercalation, hydrogen sensing, and smart windows due to their photochromic property. Our nanotubes and nanowires are an interesting alternative to carbon nanotubes , showing advantages such as easy synthetic access, and good uniformity and solubility. They are very promising candidates as fillers for composites with enhanced thermal, mechanical and electrical properties. Target applications for this kind of composites are materials for heat management, electrostatic dissipaters, wear protection materials.
Significance for the country
Research within this project contributed significantly to improvement in nanotechnology in Slovenia and thus strengthen the competitive position of our country in the world. This was a great opportunity to use the existing equipment and obtained knowledge for optimizing preparation procedures of unique and highly interesting samples. Besides promotion of our country the new materials are a good basis for further collaborations with leading researchers from all over the world. The combination of synthesis of new structures and precise characterization of their physical properties also provide excellent working conditions and are used for training of perspective researchers. The project was the basis for formation and further development of a new high-technological company and also base for our collaboration in the international COST project.
The main goal of the project was synthesis of new structures and above all, their possible successful transfer to industrial applications. The production, which is already protected by several patents, was optimized and enable more rational and effective production of new materials. Due to the excellent physical properties, the materials could be used for lubrication, nanoelectronics, emitters, even gas nanosensors. Eminent Slovenian companies showed interest for collaboration , preparation and characterization of test samples were performed. A spin-off company been formed as part of the Technology Park, Ljubljana. New materials and matter increase the competitiveness in key segments of Slovene industry. In general, novel nanostructures based on transition could be of key importance for the development of industry in larger segments, from composites to electronics. It is important that all the nanostructures developed in our project are under patent application protection.
Most important scientific results
Annual report
2008,
2009,
final report,
complete report on dLib.si
Most important socioeconomically and culturally relevant results
Annual report
2008,
2009,
final report,
complete report on dLib.si
