Theoretical and experimental studies of materials structure and properties

Incorporates fundamentals and technology of multifunctional materials, computational modelling of materials and devices. Further development of existing and novel theoretical and experimental tools combined with computer simulations to predict how molecules form particular crystallographic structures. Quantum chemistry and molecular dynamics study of fine structural effects and the next mesoscopic modelling will be valuable in studying of nanomaterial structural, electronic, magnetic and optical properties. Experimental tools include high power computing, x-ray absorption and optical spectroscopies and, scanning/electron/optical microscopy.

Nanotechnology, thin films, nanomaterials and ceramics

Covers novel nanomaterials and nanostructures, crystals, glasses, nanoceramics, polymer nanocomposites, and hybrid structures. The R&D activities addresses the so-called Green Thin Film Nanotechnologies based on vacuum technologies such as physical and chemical vapour deposition and pulsed laser deposition as well as organic and inorganic spray wet technologies, novel High Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering technology.

Functional materials for photonics, sensorics and electronics

New organic materials for light emitters, lasers and OLEDs, waveguides and IR sensors, transparent nanocomposite oxyfluoride materials for optical applications, nanostructured up-conversion luminescent environmental sensors, materials for photonic applications in information and communications technologies, oxide based optoelectronics devices (for example, Ga2O3 and graphene), large area nanocoatings for application in transparent and flexible electronics. Additional application areas: dosimeters and sensors using thermosluminescence and optical stimulated luminescence in nitrides and oxides, scintillators for high-energy physics and biomarkers for medical applications, low temperature persistent phosphors sensors. 

Materials for energy harvesting and storage

Covers major subjects such as fuel cells, organic, inorganic and hybrid photovoltaics, thin film batteries, lithium ion and lithium coating batteries, supercapacitors, piezoelectric energy harvesters, lead free ferroelectric perovskites with high-value electrocaloric effect for refrigerators, ferroelectric NBT composition ceramics for electromechanical actuators and energy harvesting. Hydrogen generation, hydrogen and sustainable energy storage technologies with lower environmental footprint, thermoelectric, advanced functional and constructive materials for thermonuclear fusion.