Nanoscale energy and structure materials

In the "Nanoscale energy and structural materials" department, we develop novel materials and particle systems whose properties are determined by their specially designed composition. The focus is on functional nanoparticles, hybrid materials, and coatings that improve energy conversion, storage, and mechanical performance. One focus is on precious metal-reduced catalyst nanoparticles for electrocatalysis and chemical catalysis for use in defossilization and recycling.

By combining synthesis, analytics, and application technology, we create solutions that can be scaled up from the laboratory to industrial processes: "from lab to fab." In this way, we support companies in realizing high-performance material systems for applications in hydrogen technologies and for the use of CO₂ in the circular economy.

Competencies

Whether metal-based nanoparticles for catalysis or upconverting fluorescent core-shell nanocrystal sensors in the life sciences: we offer you material and synthesis expertise on various nanoscale systems.

For example, our CANdot Series X up is available worldwide as one of our standards.

Catalysis

Catalysis takes place on surfaces. Catalyzed processes run faster and the necessary activation energy is lower than for non-catalyzed reactions.

Nanoparticles have a surface-to-volume ratio that is particularly beneficial for catalysis. If elements are cleverly chosen and used to produce nanoparticles, this offers significant advantages.

The research group of Nanoscale energy and structure materials focuses on applications in the field of hydrogen technologies, in particular in the field of fuel cells (PEMFC) and (water) electrolysis (PEMEly).

Processes for the production of nanoparticles

Nanoparticles often show beneficial properties that lead to new product features or a significant improvement of existing applications. A requirement for commercial implementation is the availability of high-quality materials in larger quantities. This is where we support you!

Medical applications

Rare earth doped nanoparticles have unique optical properties with many advantages for application as sensor systems in the life sciences. Our expertise in nanoparticle design and surface modification allow us to develop specific systems that are precisely adapted to the application, environment and detection method.

Anti-Counterfeiting

Product piracy is a serious threat to human life and sales. Here, as well as for track and trace applications, our customized nanoparticle systems can help document the movement of goods and act as a forensic security feature.

Upconversion

Rare earth doped nanoparticles have unique optical properties. They base on combinations of host lattices and dopant elements. The design of these materials as onion-like systems, core-shell(-shell) systems, provides many possibilities.