Nanostructured multifunctional materials and nanocomposites

Project deals with development of new class of nanostructured multifunctional materials based on oxide nanomaterials like TiO2, CeO2, ZnO and their derivatives doped with transition or rare earth elements; magnetic nanocomposites of R2M14B type (R –rare earth element such as Nd or Pr, M – transition-metal element such as Co or Fe); Zr-Nb-Ta nanocomposites; metallic nanoclusters and metamaterials like graphene. These materials can be used as very effective catalysts for water purification processes of organic pollutants, in nano/bio sensor devices or in hydrogen storage technology. The further improvement of synthesis process, proper characterization of structural, morphological, optical, electrical, magnetic, micro-dynamic and catalytic properties in conjunction with theoretical simulations will enable the better understanding of the nanomaterial properties. This approach leads to the development of catalysts with tailored properties and optimum hydrogen storage materials. Therefore, proposed research activity can influence on the developing of appropriate technologies for the production of innovative new products for water purification processes of organic pollutants, next-generation of nano/bio sensor devices, hydrogen storage technology and give a stimulus for born of new High Tech spin-off Enterprises working in this field in Serbia.