BrainMap

Mrs. Zina Vuluga

PhD, Senior Researcher

Team Leader, Senior Researcher - Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Researcher | Scientific reviewer

Web of Science ResearcherID: not public

Curriculum Vitae (20/02/2024)

Expertise & keywords

Design of new nanocellulose-based gas-carrier systems Call name: P 4 - Proiecte de cercetare exploratorie - PCE-2021
PN-III-P4-PCE-2021-0435 2022 - 2024

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://icechim.ro/celgas-en/

Abstract:

Severe oxygen deprivation can cause significant problems in chronic wounds, during organ preservation and implantation, or in cases of trauma, hemorrhagic shock, or viral pneumonia. Oxygen prevents wound infection, increases cell viability after implantation and could be an effective treatment in viral pneumonia. Currently, there is no viable solution to deliver oxygen to the grafts during the healing period and to administrate a large volume of oxygen to patients who suffered profound oxygen deprivation. The scope of the CELGAS project is to develop innovative oxygen-carrying systems capable of supplying oxygen in a controlled manner to injured tissue/ implants or intravenously. The innovative oxygen-carrying systems will ensure controlled release of oxygen for long periods of time, will have a high stability, biodegradability, will not be cytotoxic and will have a nanometric size, essential for intravenous administration to avoid vascular obstruction. In CELGAS, the problem will be addressed using nanocellulose and nanocellulose/biopolymer to encapsulate oxygen-generating species or to obtain oxygen-containing nanobubbles. The biopolymers to be used are selected from poly (3-hydroxybutyrate), medium chain length polyhydroxyalkanoates and polylactic acid. The design of the new systems will be based on improved methods and an efficient characterization that will allow the achievement of the objectives.

Prototype coating system to reduce the CO2 footprint and environmental impact in shipping Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect de transfer la operatorul economic
PN-III-P2-2.1-PTE-2021-0675 2022 - 2024

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: QWERTY DEVELOPMENT MACADA-M S.R.L.

Project partners: QWERTY DEVELOPMENT MACADA-M S.R.L. (RO); Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://sparacom.ro/rezultate/ si https://sparacom.ro/date-generale/

Abstract:

SPARACOM is a complex solution for the transfer to the economic operator, in order to increase the competitiveness of the economic environment and the assimilation of market-oriented RDI results. The consortium involves the collaboration between an innovative company and a large research institute in the field. The proposal aims at the efficient maximization of the financing instrument (technological maturation of TRL4 to TRL6; it starts from the technology validated within PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2016-1332, 84PED, financed by UEFISCDI; the use of an infrastructure at international level; SMEs with high innovative potential; avant-garde technological solution, an opportunity at the level of the international market; connecting national applied research to the national and international market). The budget is balanced by allowing adequate and flexible resources for better management and contingency plans. To maximize the final results some activities and budgetary resources from outside the project are committed to increase the visibility and impact of research. The CO and P1 research team implies an important institutional character: members from several departments and research teams together with the valorization of competencies. The technological approach involves advanced hybrid antifouling systems (and acting in a sequential mode) but also a self-repair system with potential in freshwater and marine environments (a major challenge in the field). The expected results involve both TRL technology and at least: a paper at scientific events, a paper sent for publication to an ISI publication, a patent application, a web page.

Eco-friendly nanocomposites based on bio-PA and bio-fillers for injected auto parts Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2021-0795 2022 - 2024

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/econano4auto/

Abstract:

The ECONANO4AUTO project offers an innovative and efficient solution for the field of smart specialization - Energy, environment and climate changes, namely reducing the CO2 footprint and accumulations of polymeric waste, by developing of new and innovative technology for obtaining of new polymer bio-nanocomposites based on bio-PA and keratin/ nanoparticle hybrids, lightweight and with improved thermal and mechanical properties. Starting from high-performances bio-PA10,10 and a natural waste (chicken feathers) the project will provide at the end a viable, low cost and eco-friendly solution for effective using of chicken feathers and reducing of impact on environmental pollution. The developed technology will be validated in laboratory conditions to obtain parts by injection moulding. A toxicological study will be carried out regarding the nanomaterials action on the epidermal and pulmonary cells and a methodological guide will be elaborated regarding the prevention of the risks related to the work with nanoparticles. The partnership for this project involves 2 R&D National Institutes, well known in Romania and abroad, competent in the project field and with scientific and technical potential for development and characterization the new technology for obtaining bio-polymer nanocomposites.

Improved technology to fabricate holographic marks with encapsulated thermochrome system Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect de transfer la operatorul economic
PN-III-P2-2.1-PTE-2021-0339 2022 - 2024

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: OPTOELECTRONICA - 2001 S.A.

Project partners: OPTOELECTRONICA - 2001 S.A. (RO); Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); UNIVERSITATEA NAŢIONALĂ DE ŞTIINŢĂ ŞI TEHNOLOGIE POLITEHNICA BUCUREŞTI (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://holterm.optoel.ro/

Abstract:

The usefulness of the project is justified by 1) increasing demand for holographic marks with a high degree of security in the conditions of accentuated multiplication of counterfeit products, 2) identification of new areas of application which require a strict control of the storage and transport conditions (eg. at negative temperature), 3) proposing green technologies as an important pillar of the EU's Green Agenda.

In this context, the PURPOSE OF THE HOLTERM PROJECT is to increase the competitiveness of S.C. OPTOELECTRONICA 2001 SA and gaining a new market segment by knowledge transfer and assimilating in fabrication of innovative solutions to increase the security of holographic marks:

i) proposing an ecological technology for manufacturing holographic marks using biopolymer plates at the hot embossing processing phase, ensuring the faithful transfer of the micro-relief for the correct formation of the final optical effects;

ii) introduction of a control element (encapsulated thermochrome system - TSI), with the role of a sensor to signal non-compliance with the negative temperature conditions necessary for the storage and handling of certain food or pharmaceutical products.

The necessity for OPTO to improve the technological phases and to introduce new security elements unknown to counterfeiters, in accordance with the market requirements for the detection of counterfeiting with safe but simple methods, led to the final results of the HOLTERM project with innovative aspects:

--Prototype of a Holographic mark with Encapsulated Thermochrome System, addressing food products, medicines, vaccines that require storage and transport at negative temperatures. The TSI component can also be used separately on products, without a holographic mark.

--Ecological technology to obtain PHSTI based on biopolymers and new industrial process parameters with the aim of increasing the resolution of the micro-relief on the final holographic mark and obtaining clear optical effects.

Biopolymer structures obtained by plasma treatment for wounds healing Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2021-2559 2022 - 2024

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE MEDICO-MILITARA „CANTACUZINO” (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/biopolymer-structures-obtained-by-plasma-treatment-for-wounds-healing-bioplasm/

Abstract:

Chronic wounds, severe burns or infected wounds are among the most painful diseases that require long-term expensive treatment. Currently, the clinical management of chronic wounds is difficult due to the increasing risk of infection with antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the shortcomings of current therapies. A novel technology for the manufacture of bilayer wound dressings, based on nanocellulose and cold plasma processing, will be developed in BIOPLASM project. The scope of the project is to obtain effective dressings for the treatment of infected wounds by developing antibacterial nanocellulose nanocarriers deposited on an aliphatic polyester substrate.

The use of cold plasma for nanocellulose and biopolymers processing in view of medical application is an effervescent field, with important benefits related to eco-friendliness, lack of secondary or waste products, sterilization and large functionalization capabilities. Cold plasma treatment of liquid suspensions of nanocellulose is a concept developed by ICECHIM and INFLPR in a previous project. This will serve as a starting point together with the functionalization and processing of nanocellulose and aliphatic polyesters for building a new technological approach to fabricate bilayer wound dressings. The new technology will be validated by in vitro and in vivo studies. The project will be implemented by a skilled group of researchers from ICECHIM, INFLPR and Cantacuzino Institute.

BIO-BASED NANOCOMPOSITES FROM EPOXY - CELULLOSE WITH BALANCED THERMO-MECHANICAL PROPERTIES Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2019-5002 2020 - 2022

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/epocel/

Abstract:

Epoxy resins are being used in many key applications of the automotive manufacturing industry due to their properties such as high thermal stability, mechanical strength, moisture resistivity and adhesion. Although these materials have a high performance in electronics their end-of-life disposal raised tremendous global environmental concerns. Thus, designing novel biomaterials able to overcome these disadvantages have become an important goal for the scientific community.

The proposed project aims to develop new nanocomposites, based on renewable and inexpensive biological sources, with thermo-mechanical balanced properties for applications in electronics (EPOCEL). The goal of this project will be achieved through the use of renewable resources like vegetable oils and different nanocellulose fillers to obtain the epoxy systems. The EPOCEL nanobiocomposite materials will exhibit a tailored interface design which will assure performances comparable to those of petroleum-based but at a lower price. The project approach is based on the association of materials produced from regionally low cost agricultural feedstocks which will be employed for the development of novel materials with high - added value. Various epoxy system components and different agents for nanocellulose functionalization will be screened for achieving the desired thermal and mechanical performances. Nanocellulose will have a significant role in providing biodegradability besides controlled stiffness.

The assessment of the EPOCEL model for electronics will be made after detailed analysis of physico-chemical, mechanical and thermal properties.

Nanodielectrics for underwater microstrip antenna substrates Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2019-4687 2020 - 2022

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://nadumas.elmat.pub.ro

Abstract:

Patch (or microstrip) antennas are among the most common antenna types in use today, because they can provide high performances in small packages (especially for modern fixed and mobile wireless devices), high gain, or light weight, or handle high power levels. The choice of the dielectric substrate material plays a key role in the size and performance of a patch antenna, such as achieving maximum gain at the desired radio frequency (RF). As for RF for underwater communication they should be as low as possible because of the high losses due to conductivity of sea water, which leads to the increase of the absorption loss at high frequencies. The proposed project aims to design and develop new polymer nanocomposites as substrate materials for patch antennas working at low frequencies for wireless data and power transfer in water. Thus, the main project scope is to obtain nanodielectrics with high dielectric constant and in the same time with very low dielectric losses, together with all the other properties required for patch antenna substrates: homogeneity, dimensional stability with processing and temperature, humidity and aging, resistance to chemicals, impact resistance, formability, bonding ability, foil adhesion etc. The variation of the dielectric properties with frequency and temperature will be analyzed on the proposed nanodielectrics by broadband dielectric spectroscopy in the range 10-6 – 109 Hz and -100 – 400 °C.

Therefore the demonstration model of the NaDUMAS project consists in a technology for nanodielectrics for patch antenna substrate. First, several polymer nanocomposite will be proposed and tested to analyse their potential as substrate for patch antennas. Then, the best nanodielectrics will be in depth investigated regarding their dielectric, mechanical and thermal properties. Finally, selected nanodielectrics will be used as substrate to prepare patch antenna structures to be tested and compared with commercial available antenna substrates

NEW DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE CONSERVATION AND REVITALIZATION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL COMPONENTS FROM NATIONAL CULTURAL HERITAGE Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0476 2018 - 2021

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); UNIVERSITATEA OVIDIUS (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); UNIVERSITATEA "VALAHIA" TARGOVISTE (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/tehnologii-noi-de-diagnoza-si-tratament-pentru-conservarea-si-revitalizarea-componentelor-arheologice-ale-patrimoniului-cultural-national-arheocons/

Abstract:

The cultural heritage, as a source of national historical and cultural authenticity, is subjected to deterioration, and for stopping it, some specific procedures are required: cleaning, replacement of old materials and application of new protective materials compatible with the original, and advanced monitoring with sustainability assessment. The consortium of the present project has a unique expertise in Romania, recognised in Europe, through the many published papers, essential projects in Romania (Basarabi Churches, Potlogi Palace, etc.), OSIM and EPO patents, technology transfer, nanomaterials in chemical and biological preservation for cultural heritage objects and objectives; the partner institutions complement each other on a regional basis in the working plan of the whole project.

The overall objective of the project is to develop new materials, new methods and technologies that obey the principles of authenticity, reversibility and value, with a strong impact on immobile cultural heritage objects (fresco, basreliefs and mosaic) and mobile (decorative artefacts from ceramics, glass, metal, bone, objects of art and archaeology). Specific objectives: Developing innovative technologies for protecting national cultural heritage, multidisciplinary cross-sectoral approach, encouraging young professionals as leaders in heritage preservation, exploitation of research results for new jobs, promoting heritage education, professional expertise among all factors involved in the patrimony protection system.

The project, with a high degree of innovation and originality, applies unique technologies in Romania based on new materials compatible with the original materials and develops new techniques practical applied to: Roman Mosaic and Hypogeum Tomb, Constanta, Adamclisi Museum (basreliefs), Constanta County, Corvin’s Castle (Fresca Loggia Mathia) and Archaeology Museum, Hunedoara.

Emerging technologies for the industrial capitalization of 2D structures (graphene and nongraphenic) Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0387 2018 - 2021

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO); UNIVERSITATEA DIN CRAIOVA (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=49

Abstract:

EMERG2Ind is a complex solution that responds to the needs of Romanian research on one side through a institutional management and development mechanism, but at the same time it is a complex interface tool for the Romanian automotive industry as a development engine and integrator for the horizontal and vertical integration of the Romanian economic resources. International expertise is available in an attempt to develop concrete solutions in the country. Emerging technologies are being developed up to TRL4 and TRL5, through complementary harmonization of three strategic subprojects. The complex project approach is regional and institutional with cumulative indicators that fully meet the requirements and seeks to maximize the use of the funding instrument.

Closing the bioeconomy value chains by manufacturing market demanded innovative bioproducts Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0569 2018 - 2021

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE MACROMOLECULARA "PETRU PONI" (RO); UNIVERSITATEA "DUNAREA DE JOS" (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU STIINTE BIOLOGICE (RO); UNIVERSITATEA AUREL VLAICU ARAD (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=51&lang=ro

Abstract:

Agriculture and food industry in Romania generates large amounts of co/by-products, which are not used and turn into wastes, with negative impacts. The approach of the project PRO-SPER is to develop integrated processes, flexible and interconnected, to transform a number of agro-food by-products in bio-products, with market demand. This approach facilitates the achievement of project goals, complex-coordination and linking of the research organizations that are members of the Consortium, INCDCP-ICMPP, UDJ, ICECHIM, INCDSB and UAV, for improving their institutional performance in the field of nano-and bio-technologies of their application into bioeconomy.

The overall objective of the project PRO-SPER is to increase the impact of research and development activities and innovation of the RDI institutions, by developing and harnessing innovative technological solutions for bio-nano-processing of several by-products from the bioeconomy value chains, for recovering and/or formation of value-added components and their use in order to obtain products with high added value.

Expected results through the implementation of the project (21 new jobs, 23 national patent applications and international patent applications 6 EPO/WIPO; 10 technologies/new products resulting from the project, at a level of technological maturity to enable taking over by the operators, 5 services research and technological research services 10 cheques, 10 experiments cheques services

80 internship of young researchers from and within partner institutions, 50 visits for developing new techniques for working jointly in the Consortium, 30 training internships for new employees, 28scientific papers, 1 joint program CDI, in line with the development plan of institutional partners) have a significant impact on the capacity-building of the partners in the Consortium.

Innovative technologies based on polymers for the obtaining of new advanced materials Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0428 2018 - 2021

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE CHIMICO - FARMACEUTICA - I.C.C.F. BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE PENTRU ELECTROCHIMIE SI MATERIE CONDENSATA - INCEMC TIMISOARA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE MACROMOLECULARA "PETRU PONI" (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=41&lang=ro

Abstract:

The project is aimed at using the expertise that involved in consortium entities acquired in materials science. The consortium consists of three representative national institutes: INCD for Chemistry and Petrochemistry – ICECHIM Bucharest, INCD for Electrochemistry and Condensed Matter - INCEMC Timisoara and INCD of Chemical Pharmaceutical - ICCF Bucharest, and of two prestigious universities: University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest and the University of Bucharest and a remarkable institute of Romanian Academy: Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry – Petru Poni Iasi. Although having great tradition and noteworthy results, the first five institutions face a series of problems, from the lack of financial funds, equipment and the aging employees for ICCF and partly for INCEMC and ICECHIM, to the lack of highly qualified staff required for recent investments in equipment for all 5 institutions. In this respect, the project attempts relaunching the activity in the first 5 institutions of the consortium, by putting together the existing competencies, so as to develop new technologies in order to obtain new materials with high performance properties. Given that, 3 of the research teams are specialized in polymers (ICECHIM, Petru Poni and UPB) the developed technologies will use the polymers as intermediates or as a component in the finished product. To this end it is envisaged getting the titanium nitride for prosthetic coatings via inorganic-organic polymer nanocomposites, obtaining photocatalytic materials and antibacterial coatings by sol- gel reactions, obtaining of short-life or one-time use biomaterials from aliphatic polyesters and micro or nanocellulose and the development of new polyphase materials with medium or long life, based on biopolymers, through 3D printing. The project intends the full use of A1, A2, B and C checks in order to increase the institutional performance of partners.

Innovative technologies for advanced recovery of waste materials from IT and telecommunication equipment Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0652 2018 - 2021

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA TEHNICA DIN CLUJ - NAPOCA

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA TEHNICA DIN CLUJ - NAPOCA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE PENTRU OPTOELECTRONICA INOE 2000 INCD (RO); UNIVERSITATEA 1 DECEMBRIE 1918 ALBA IULIA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA TEHNICĂ "GHEORGHE ASACHI" IAŞI (RO); Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: https://tradeit.utcluj.ro/

Abstract:

Although in 2016, at global level, the quantity of WEEE was over 45Mt (increasing 3-5% yearly), the estimated recycling rate only reaches 15-20%. Out of the total WEEE quantity, IT and telecommunication equipment waste (WEITT) represents c.a.15%, while printed circuit board waste, albeit only 3-6% of the total DEIT waste, concentrates 40% of the recoverable metals. At international level, the usual industrial technologies are mainly based on physical-mechanical and pyro-metallurgic procedures, but require high energy consumption and generate toxic by-products. At national level, reported research on WEITT processing is limited to the laboratory, while industrial processing agents only collect DEIT for export.

The consortium, composed of the Technical and Babeș-Bolyai universities of Cluj-Napoca, "1 Decembrie 1918" of Alba Iulia, Technical "Gheorghe Asachi" of Iași, INDO-INOE 2000 Research Institute for Analytical Instrumentation subsidiary ICIA and the National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry, will elaborate, test and validate a complex of installations and optimised technologies for the integral reclaiming of WEITT materials, based on the following principles: 1) minimal energy consumption and reduced quantities of secondary waste, with reduced environmental impact, 2) smart disassembling and separation (mechanical, electrical and electrochemical) in order to obtain new or recycled materials with high purity and high economical value, 3) valorification of resulted plastic materials through non-polluting chemical technologies and their reintroduction in the production process, 4) development of a platform for monitoring environmental impacts and for learning reclaiming technologies for DEIT material 5) transfer of the developed technologies to companies in the Romanian reclaiming and recycling industry.

Nanocellulose 3-D structures for regenerative medicine Call name: P 4 - Proiecte de Cercetare Exploratorie
PN-III-P4-ID-PCE-2016-0431 2017 - 2019

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=35

Abstract:

Regenerative medicine and tissue engineering may offer new hope of life in case of loss or malfunction of a tissue or organs. One of the key elements in tissue engineering is the three-dimensional (3D) scaffold which provides structural support for cell attachment, proliferation and differentiation. Polymer scaffolds are preferred in tissue engineering to avoid problems related to donor immune rejection and pathogen transfer. Cellulose, the most abundant natural polymer on earth, is an almost inexhaustible source of valuable materials and has gained high interest in the form of nanocellulose (NC). NC stands out for its high crystallinity and mechanical strength, good biocompatibility, high water-holding capacity and large surface area and it has been intensively studied for medical applications because it does not cause toxic or allergic side effects in contact with living tissue. 3D scaffolds should possess a network of interconnected pores to permit cell migration, diffusion of nutrients and clearance of wastes, they must be able to support cell adhesion and promote cell growth and they must have balanced stiffness-toughness properties to support and transfer loads. To meet all these requirements in porous 3D scaffolding, CELL-3D has as main objective to design new nanocellulose 3D structures that can be applied in tissue engineering by: a). synthesis and characterization of nanocellulose 3D structures using surface functionalization and crosslinking; b). synthesis and characterization of 3D structures from nanocellulose - biopolymer composites; c). designing new processing techniques for 3D nanocellulose structures. Biopolymers such as polyhydroxyalkanoates and other aliphatic polyesters with good elongation and flexibility will be used to obtain highly porous 3D composite structures.

New functionalized medical devices for surgical interventions in the pelvic cavity Call name: P 3 - SP 3.2 - Proiecte ERA.NET - COFUND
COFUND-MANUNET III-MedIn-1 2018 - 2019

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=37&lang=en

Abstract:

The incidence of cancer of all kinds is growing all over the world, and thereby the number of surgical

interventions in the field of oncological surgery records a continuous growth year after year. In some cases, the complete resection of one or more organic structures (rectum, uterus, ovaries, and bladder) from the pelvis is required. These surgical interventions, called pelvic exenteration or evisceration, are associated with a high postoperative morbidity and mortality. One of the complications is related to occlusions and fistulas, when the intestinal loops adhere to the perineal plain. The pelvic prosthesis developed in MedIn project will be designed to fill the empty excavation, support the intestinal loops and prevent any inflammatory phenomena caused by the adherence of perineal tissue. Other complications which may occur after pelvic exenterations refer to overall infectious, hemorrhagic complications, surgical infections. In general, wound infection associated with

pelvic exenterations is reported to be as high as 40%. This remained and unmet need will be covered through the innovative oxygenated wound dressing that will be developed within the scope of this project.

Nanocellulose based biocomposites with integrated antibacterial activity by submerged liquid plasma Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2016-0287 2017 - 2018

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=26&lang=en

Abstract:

Biocomposites from polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) and nanocellulose (NC) are cutting edge materials for in vivo biomedical application as scaffolds or implants. Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), the most studied of the PHAs is available as industrial grade and it is considered as viable alternative of petroleum-based materials. However, PHB and cellulose themselves have no antibacterial activity to prevent bacterial infections associated with medical devices that constitute the most important cause of hospital death which could be prevented. The scope of this project is to obtain PHB/NC biocomposites with antibacterial activity using eco-friendly submerged liquid plasma (SLP) and nanotechnology. The research topic of plasma submerged or in contact with liquids is new but very important for the functionalization of nanomaterials or synthesis of unconventional polymers with valuable properties for biomedical applications. In the frame of CELLAB-SLP, the biomaterial and eco-friendly technology will constitute the experimental model that will be developed and tested at lab-scale. The new biomaterial will be validated in a third-party laboratory from the point of view of bactericidal effect and biocompatibility. The new biocomposite will show (i) good processability by compression, extrusion or injection molding in films, plates, tubes or rods as models for biomedical devices; (ii) good mechanical properties and thermal stability; (iii) strong and persistent antibacterial activity beside biocompatibility. The balanced profile of the staff involved in the project (36% senior researchers, 32% postdoctoral researchers, 1 PhD student and 13% technicians), the good expertise of the two teams and the necessary infrastructure will ensure the implementation of the project.

Technologies and smart products for prevention and treatment of mastitis in productive ruminants, based on green chemistry of the composites for veterinary public health (GREENVET) Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA 2013 - call
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-0415 2014 - 2017

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEXTILE SI PIELARIE-I.N.C.D.T.P. BUCURESTI SUCURSALA BUCURESTI INSTITUTUL DE CERCETARE PIELARIE - INCALTAMINTE I.C.P.I. (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); ROMVAC COMPANY S.A. (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://www.icechim.ro/polimeri/proiecte/greenvet/

Abstract:

GREENVET project is a multidisciplinary answer for mastitis treatment in productive ruminants by integrating scientific research from outside discipline, inside the veterinary public health. The solution consists in innovative composites using green chemistry, supramolecular structures and intelligent materials using natural sources for one of the most expensive and health risky disease in livestock production. A final treatment will be developed as product, for internal market but with high export potential. The product consists in an integrated complex system with natural bioactive components (essential oils) as cure for sustaining or alternative to classical antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and cicatrizants with high impact on quality of life: problems of food supplies and quality, health and sustainable resources. GREENVET assumes a consortium (2 unique and large national research institutes, the largest technical university from Romania and the largest producer in Romania for veterinary products) with both experienced and young researchers. The management consist in the classical: planning, organizing and controlling in order to attain a minimum risk for project implementation (specific risk in multidisciplinary research), but is based on latest trend in the field -less graphs and more people- concept, by motivational approach and a proven background history of the collaboration between partners. GREENVET consortium experience in biomedical solutions is focused on the project working plan and provides outputs in terms of experimental models, prototype set, innovative technology, patent claim, dissemination in ISI journals and scientific events, documentation for product registration/or product notification. The budget breakdown and plan is well balanced to the resources to be committed in work complexity and less in time length of the task for people with different skills in multidisciplinary research.

Innovative solutions to increase energy efficiency of buildings and industrial equipments by using composite thermal insulating biodegradable materials Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA 2013 - call
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-1709 2014 - 2017

Role in this project: Partner team leader

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); CEPROCIM S.A. (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://www.ir.ro/biotherm

Abstract:

The BIO-THERM project proposal refers to environmentally friendly products obtained from renewable raw materials, intended for insulating industrial buildings and equipment. The products submitted to be created by the project are biodegradable, with a high useful life and a low risk of bio-deterioration and fire. The project’s theme complies with Research theme 3.1.2, Environmentally friendly products (green chemistry), Research Direction 3.1, Means and mechanisms for reducing environmental pollution, Area 3, Environment.

The project’s overall goal is to obtain new biodegradable thermal insulating composite materials and their innovative use in order to increase the thermal efficiency of industrial buildings and equipment. The project’s specific goals are:

(i) The selection of fungus and bacteria groupings that efficiently form spongy structures from a mixture of lignocellulose, plastic and mineral materials;

(ii) The creation of inoculating bio-products for the fabrication of biodegradable thermal insulating composite materials;

(iii) Developing specific thermal insulating material forming procedures;

(iv) Determining the new materials’ characteristics;

(v) Setting the optimum usage methods for the thermal insulation of industrial buildings and equipment;

(vi) The intellectual protection of the innovative solutions;

(vii) The technical and economic and eco-efficiency analyses of the new biodegradable thermal insulating composite materials;

(viii) The wide-scale dissemination of the results obtained within the project

The project develops existing solutions for obtaining thermal insulating materials from spongy structures formed by fungi grown on lignocellulose waste, via contributions that reduce the disadvantages of the known solutions.

The goal of introducing thermal resistant recycled plastic materials (ex. polypropylene) is to reduce the bio-deterioration potential (by limiting the biocomposite’s bio-degradation speed) and to increase the mechanical strength by creating a framework of improved resistance.

Co-cultivating fungi with bacteria that stimulates their growth and forms biofilms on the plastic materials in the mixture aims to reduce the material fabrication time (and to increase the direct economic efficiency) and to achieve compatibility between the hydrophobic (recycled plastic materials) and hydrophilic (lignocellulose material) components.

The absorbing mineral materials (for ex.. kieselgur or zeolies) reduce water activity in the substrate (drying in the final fabrication stage), limiting the bio-deterioration potential, providing the required micro-elements to accelerate the growth of microorganisms in the cultivation stage and reducing the risk of fire.

Using the granular bio-preparation with fungus and bacteria spores allows the material to be fabricated in various shapes, by growing it into molds specially formed for the desired applications, by controlled development on the surfaces it was sprayed along with the growth substrate mixture, by directed in situ cultivation to fill cavities. Directed in situ cultivation provides the ability to repair the thermal insulating materials created using this process, increases its useful life and eco-efficiency.

The final drying of the resulting process down to less than 10% material humidity is meant to deactivate the microorganisms and to provide the thermal and physical characteristics needed for the intended uses.

By varying the lignocellulose and plastic material mixture composition, as well as using different microorganism groupings (fungi forming the spongy mycelium and bacteria that stimulate fungal growth and make the substrate compatible), materials with different properties, for various uses, may be obtained.

Hybrid inorganic-organic nanocomposites films of layered double hydroxides with hydrophobic/protective coating surfaces Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA-2011 call, Type 1
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2011-3.1-1462 2012 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI (RO); Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://ppam.inflpr.ro/PCCA_137_ro.htm

Abstract:

The aim of the project is to produce and study layered double hydroxides (LDHs) thin films modified with organic compounds in order to obtain hydrophobic surface acting as protective coatings. The LDH component will be Zn-Al LDH and Mg-Al LDH prepared at different Me(2+)/Me(3+) ratios. LDH will play either a host material role, to accommodate organic molecule such as fatty acids and macromolecules as a vinyl acetate copolymer or, a guest role, to produce hybrid nanocomposites of LDH/polymers. Laser techniques, pulsed laser deposition (PLD) and matrix assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) will be used for the deposition of LDH –based thin films. It is a novel application of laser techniques for the fabrication of complex nano-structures. Extensive characterization will be performed in order to evidence the critical elements which influence the chemical composition and surface topography of the films, the two main elements governing the wettability properties of surfaces. The host matrix composition, the compatibility between the organic and the inorganic component, deposition conditions, protocols of preparation will be correlated with the hydrophobic properties of the as-prepared films. All the materials used for HYLAYHY project, the inorganic LDH component and the organic compounds are environmentally friendly.

Innovative polyester/bacterial cellulose composites for biomedical engineering Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA-2011 call, Type 2
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2011-3.2-1002 2012 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE CHIMICO - FARMACEUTICA - I.C.C.F. BUCURESTI (RO); Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); I.C.P.E. BISTRITA S.A. (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://www.tsocm.pub.ro/cercetare/POLYBAC

Abstract:

The project entitled “INNOVATIVE POLYESTER/BACTERIAL CELLULOSE COMPOSITES FOR BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING”, acronym POLYBAC focuses on the development of new composite materials based on polyhydroxyalkanoates and bacterial cellulose with biomedical applications.

One major major objective consists in the synthesis and characterization of functionalized naturally-occuring biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) and bacterial cellulose (BC) composites for bone tissue repairs.

The second major objective refers to the synthesis and characterization of polyhydroxyalkanoates and bacterial cellulose composite materials for blood vessel engineering.

The development of innovative composite materials for bone pathology is a very interesting and challenge task with interdisciplinary view involving polymer science, organic chemistry, physics, biology and medicine.

These composite materials should be biocompatible with the living tissue and should provide minimum inflammatory or cytotoxic reactions. In vitro and in vivo tests will show the capacity of this material to come into contact with the living tissue inducing or not a toxic or immunologic response at the level of the entire organism.

At industrial scale, we intend to develop plates and sheets by pressing and milling process, tubes by extrusion and various injected parts that meet the essential conditions according to Directive 93/42 EEC concerning medical devices (including European Pharmacopoeia).

Reuse waste polypropilenes using a new additive Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA-2011 call, Type 2
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2011-3.2-0181 2012 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE CERCETARI PENTRU ACOPERIRI AVANSATE ICAA S.A.

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE CERCETARI PENTRU ACOPERIRI AVANSATE ICAA S.A. (RO); Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CERCETARI PRODUSE AUXILIARE ORGANICE S.A. (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://icaaro.com/doc/Fisa%20prezentare%20REPOLY.pdf

Abstract:

The main goal of this project is to reintroduce the recovered polypropylene after its lifetime use in the economic circuit as high performance composite materials. There will be used the current industrial technology for melt alloying of the components. The project task consists in the obtaining of new styrene-isoprene block copolymers with thermoplastic elastomeric properties for advanced recycling of recovered polypropylene. A new technology is proposed for the obtaining of styrene-isoprene block copolymers-recovered polypropylene composite materials with high performance impact strength especially below 0°C. The recycled composite material is cheap and shows higher impact strengths (2-4 times higher) even than the unused initial polypropylene form current production according to our recent experimental results. Therefore, advanced recycling of polypropylene wastes could be ensured with favourable effects for depollution and environmental protection.

The present research focuses on establishing the molecular and compositional parameters for styrene-isoprene block copolymers resulting in recovered polypropylene composites with optimum properties.

The synthesis of styrene-isoprene block copolymers will be done by solution sequential anionic polymerization of monomers with n-BuLi as initiator which permits precise and reproducible block copolymers to be obtained. The molecular weights of the polystyrene and poly-isoprene blocks are well defined with a narrow distribution.

Solution polymerization is a modern non-polluting technique with low water consumption and the solvent is fully recovered at the end of the synthesis of styrene-isoprene block copolymers and then reused. In this way the resource is preserved and the environment is not polluted with waste waters.

These block copolymers will be obtained with certain structures and physico-mechanical properties so that their melt alloying with recovered polypropylene will lead to high impact composites.

Composites based on polyhydroxyalkanoates and surface modified nanocellulose as completely biodegradable packaging Call name: P 3 - SP 3.1 - Proiecte de mobilități, România-Belgia (bilaterale)
PN-III-P3-3.1-PM-RO-BE-2016-0016 2016 -

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); University of Mons (BE)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website:

Abstract:

Problemele stringente legate de contaminarea mediului inconjurator si de epuizarea combustibililor fosili preocupa atat comunitatea stiintifica dar si actorii industriali si ii forteaza sa gaseasca alternative viabile ale materialelor utilizate in prezent in diverse aplicatii, cum ar fi ambalajele, produsele casnice si instrumentele medicale de unica intrebuintare etc. Tinand cont de aceste aspecte, s-a acordat multa atentie pentru dezvoltarea de materiale prietenoase mediului, pe baza de polimeri biodegradabili si biocompatibili care pot fi obtinuti din resurse regenerabile (polizaharide, acid polilactic, polibutilen succinat, polihidroxialcanoati). Incorporarea nanoparticulelor (nanoceluloza, nanoparticule anorganice etc.) intr-o matrice polimerica biodegradabila constituie o strategie eficienta de obtinere a unor materiale prietenoase mediului si cu proprietati reglabile in functie de aplicatia tinta. Prin acest proiect de cercetare, o echipa mixta, complementara, constituita din cercetatori apartinand unui institut de cercetare din Romania si unei universitati de prestigiu din Belgia, isi propune sa dezvolte un material compozit nou, pe baza de nanocristale de celuloza functionalizate si polihidroxialcanoati, conceput ca alternativa la ambalajele alimentare existente in prezent pe piata.

FILE DESCRIPTION	DOCUMENT
List of research grants as project coordinator
List of research grants as partner team leader
List of research grants as project coordinator or partner team leader
Significant R&D projects for enterprises, as project manager
R&D activities in enterprises
Peer-review activity for international programs/projects