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Crina Socaci

- INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M

Researcher | Scientific reviewer

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Expertise & keywords

TiO2 nanotubes/graphene-based nanomaterials to address the emerging contaminants pollution Call name: EEA Grants - Proiecte Colaborative de Cercetare
RO-NO-2019-0616 2020 - 2024

Role in this project: Project coordinator

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO); University of South-Eastern Norway (NO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA SI INGINERIE NUCLEARA " HORIA HULUBEI " - IFIN - HH (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO)

Project website: https://www.itim-cj.ro/PNCDI/graftid/

Abstract:

For the past century, the environment suffers from rapid deterioration due to the explosive development of chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Large quantities of drugs, personal care products, detergents, pesticides, food additives have been released in the aquatic system. The pollutants of emerging concern are not yet monitored and well regulated by authorities while there is an increased awareness of their impact on human health. The United Nations World Water Development Report 2018 states that “An estimated 80% of all industrial and municipal wastewater is released to the environment without any prior treatment, resulting in a growing deterioration of overall water quality with detrimental impacts on human health and ecosystems”. Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) based on photocatalysis are the most powerful and viable alternative to the conventional wastewater treatment technologies that still have some limitations (e.g., high operation costs, energy consumption, or reduce efficiency due to the chemical stability of pollutants and/or the complexity of their degradation). Thus, the development of solar-driven catalysts with improved photocatalytic activity for the environment-friendly and facile treatment of aquatic systems remains an important target to environment remediation.

Photochemical behavior of some polydopamine-based nanostsuctures Call name: P 4 - Proiecte de Cercetare Exploratorie, 2020
PN-III-P4-ID-PCE-2020-0770 2021 - 2023

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://www.itim-cj.ro/PNCDI/photopolydopa/

Abstract:

The present project proposes to elaborate a detailed experimental and theoretical investigation in order to characterize in details the photochemical behavior of the polydopamine-based nanostructures. To achieve this goal, femtosecond time-resolved spectroscopy techniques (transient-absorption and time-resolved fluorescence) as experimental- and the density functional theory (DFT) and its linear response time-dependent (TDDFT) version will be considered as the theoretical framework to reveal the absorption efficiency of the electromagnetic field starting from the simpler dopamine to the more complex polydopamine (PDA) polymer structures, about the time scale of the excited state relaxation dynamics and the role of the graphene and TiO2 substrates on these photochemical processes of PDA. In the first period of the project implementation, the simple case of dopamine molecule will be analyzed. This investigation will be followed by a detailed description of the photochemical processes in PDA oligomers, oligomer aggregates and oligomer aggregates of PDA analogues. Finally, the more complex cases of PDA coated graphene and TiO2 nanostructure will be explored and the role of the substrates on the photochemical properties of the PDAs will be drawn up. Based on the system-level analyzes one can provide a comprehensive picture of photochemical properties of the PDA-based nanostructures that can be used to develop new materials with special properties.

Laboratory validation of white electroluminescent carbon dot- based light emitting diodes Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2019-0841 2020 - 2022

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE- DEZVOLTARE PENTRU MICROTEHNOLOGIE - IMT BUCURESTI INCD

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE- DEZVOLTARE PENTRU MICROTEHNOLOGIE - IMT BUCURESTI INCD (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO)

Affiliation: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Project website: https://www.imt.ro/shine/

Abstract:

The proposal aims to demonstrate and validate in laboratory the feasibility of efficient and stable carbon dot - based white light-emitting diodes (CD-WLED). The overall goal of the proposed work is to bring our theoretical and experimental advancements in the use of carbon quantum dots (CDs) with crystalline core and surface functional ligands as electro-active layer in LED devices (starting from TRL-2), to the device-level confirmation of this novel technology (conclude at TRL-4). It is envisaged to (i) validate our analytical and experimental predictions regarding the role played by grafting the CD backbone with passivating conjugated oligomer ligands in attaining superior luminescence, as well as control and stability of emitted color, and (ii) to design and develop the suitable technological steps for the assembly at the laboratory level of CD-WLED device, as well as of the associated testing and characterization system; the aim here is to achieve both a clear-cut fabrication flux, and a relevant test-bed, that will allow facile fine-tuning of the critical material, of device design and of the wet/dry structuring processes against the measured external quantum efficiency and lifetime stability of the final model device. Conclusion of the TRL-4 level will consist of raising these latter device parameters to their significant levels of technological maturity and practical usability.

Graphene-based stochastic sensors for molecular diagnosis of upper gastro-intestinal cancer Call name: P 4 - Proiecte Complexe de Cercetare de Frontieră
PN-III-P4-ID-PCCF-2016-0006 2018 - 2022

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE PENTRU ELECTROCHIMIE SI MATERIE CONDENSATA - INCEMC TIMISOARA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE PENTRU ELECTROCHIMIE SI MATERIE CONDENSATA - INCEMC TIMISOARA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO); UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA, FARMACIE, STIINTE SI TEHNOLOGIE DIN TARGU MURES (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO)

Project website: http://www.ralucavanstaden.ro/pdf/RAPORT%20FINAL.pdf

Abstract:

The main objective of the project is to design a new generation of stochastic sensors based on modified graphene materials for the fast screening of biological fluids (whole blood, saliva, urine) as well as of tissue samples, in order to diagnose faster the upper gastro-intestinal cancer. In this regard, a panel of biomarkers specific to this type of cancer was selected to be analyzed using stochastic sensors. In the final stage, statistic evaluation of correlation between the panel of biomarkers found in biological fluids and tissue samples using stochastic sensors will be performed, providing the information about the possibility of diagnosis of this cancer without performing the biopsy, all only based on screening tests of biological fluids and complementary imagistic noninvasive techniques. The panel of markers proposed to be analysed is the following: - the marker that is known to be supressed during gastric and gastro-esophageal carcinogenesis - p53, it will be used as a banchmark. The other biomarkers that will be used are the following: maspin, heparanase (an endoglycosidase that is a major component of the extracellular matrix), MMP-2 and MMP-9 (two matrix metaloproteinases), HER-2 and CD26/DPP4 (a surface T cell activation antigen). Graphene materials dopped with nitrogen and boron will be synthesized and use as paste unmodified or modified with fructans, ionic liquids or aptamers for the design of stochastic sensors. The stochastic sensors will be fully characterized electrochemically, and validated against a minimum of 200 real samples from confirmed patients: biological fluids and tumoral tissues will be used for validation, but also for developing of a faster, noninvasive method of screening for fast diagnosis, avoiding in this way the biopsy.

Implementation of the platinum group metals recovery technology from car catalytic converters Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect de transfer la operatorul economic
PN-III-P2-2.1-PTE-2019-0606 2020 - 2022

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNION CO SRL

Project partners: UNION CO SRL (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO)

Project website: https://www.unionco.ro/implementarea-tehnologiei-de-recuperare-a-metalor-din-grupa-platinei-continute-in-convertori-catalitici-auto/

Abstract:

The purpose of the project is to expand the activity for exploring of waste recovery containing noble metals from the platinum group, by transferring and implementing their recovery technology from car catalysts or ceramic catalysts from the automotive, chemical, petrochemical industries, etc., on an existing of noble metal recovery technological line.

The main objective is to expand the recovery capacity of the noble metals in the platinum group from different catalysts in the automotive industry.

In order to achieve the proposed purpose, the following secondary objectives will be considered:

O1. Optimization of laboratory chemical technology

O2. Adaptation and transfer of laboratory technology to an existing technology line

O3. Optimization of the purification of the obtained noble metals

Interinstitutional program of developing advanced eco-nanotechnology solutions for multifunctional treatments of leather and textile materials Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0743 2018 - 2021

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA SI INGINERIE NUCLEARA " HORIA HULUBEI " - IFIN - HH

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA SI INGINERIE NUCLEARA " HORIA HULUBEI " - IFIN - HH (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEXTILE SI PIELARIE - INCDTP BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE MACROMOLECULARA "PETRU PONI" (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO)

Project website: https://www.nipne.ro/proiecte/pn3/7-proiecte.html

Abstract:

Developing integrated functionalization eco nano technologies using physical techniques (gamma irradiation, plasma activation, electrodeposition) and nanocomposites with antibacterial, antistatic or hydrophobization properties will produce textile and leather materials with multifunctional advanced properties. Replacing and reducing volatile organic compounds that negatively impact the environment will set the premises of transferring advanced technologies to companies manufacturing medical articles, protection equipment, sports equipment or for other applications and creating thus new research services by PHYSforTeL consortium partners to the benefit of the traditional industrial sector of textile and leather industry.

Graphene-porphyrin supramolecular assemblies for chemical and electrochemical detection of hydrogen peroxide-an oxidative stress marker Call name: Projects for Young Research Teams - RUTE -2014 call
PN-II-RU-TE-2014-4-0305 2015 - 2017

Role in this project: Project coordinator

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO)

Project website: http://www.itim-cj.ro/PNCDI/ru305/index.htm

Abstract:

The aim of the present project proposal is to develop innovative research in the field of graphene-based nanomaterials as advanced and functional materials. Additionally, the project will tackle aspects regarding the supramolecular behavior of graphene with porphyrin derivatives. The graphene-porphyrin assemblies will be formed by two different approaches – one that involves the oxidation of graphite and its reduction in the presence of nitrogen containing molecules and the other method involves the porphyrin mediated direct liquid-phase exfoliation of graphite. The two types of graphene-based nanomaterials are expected to present different electronic properties with direct implication on their application as chemical or electrochemical sensors of hydrogen peroxide – a known stable oxidative stress marker. In this respect, the peroxidase-like activity of the graphene-porphyrin assemblies will be assessed by the oxidation reaction of a peroxidase substrate. This project will also open new directions for exploring more of their possible applications.

New nanocomposites based on biocompatible polymers and graphene for dental applications Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA 2013 - call
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-1282 2014 - 2017

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO); UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE (U.M.F) Cluj-Napoca (RO); APEL LASER S.R.L. (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO)

Project website: http://www.itim-cj.ro/PNCDI/biograf/

Abstract:

In modern dentistry, both the early prevention of tooth decay and the development of new and efficient restorative materials are generally targeted. Although tremendous efforts have been made in promoting oral hygiene and fluoridation, the prevention of early caries lesions are still challenges for dental research and public health. Recent studies have indicated that nanotechnology might provide novel strategies in dentistry.

Graphene consists in a one-atom-thick planar sheet of sp2–bonded carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice. Graphene is considered to be the “thinnest and strongest material in the universe” and therefore it has remarkable physical and chemical properties, including superior Young’s modulus (1 TPa) and tensile strength (130 GPa). Recent studies have shown that graphene can be used as nanofiller and can dramatically improve the properties of polymer-based composites at a very low loading (0.1-5 wt.%).The results so far reported in the literature indicated that graphene/polymer composites are promising multifunctional materials with significantly improved tensile strength and elastic modulus, electrical and thermal conductivity. Despite some challenges and the fact that carbon nanotubes/polymer composites are sometimes better in some particular performance, graphene/polymer composites may have wide applications in dentistry due to their outstanding properties and the availability of graphene in a large quantity and at low cost.

Within the BIOGRAF project we plan to develop: ► a new nanocomposite material based on biocompatible polymers and graphene to be used in dental restorations ► new ex vivo tests to identify the host reaction to this material, in relationship with some biologic risk indicators. The final aim of the project is to develop modern and standardized therapies of caries lesions through the development of the novel nanocomposite material based on biocompatible polymers and graphene.

The present research project fits very well into the research domain 7. Materials, processes and innovative products since a new nanocomposite material with graphene will be manufactured which will fulfill the bio-safety criteria and have biocompatible properties with the local cellular environment. By its specific objectives BIOGRAF corresponds to the research thematic 7.1.6. Advanced materials and biomaterials for improving the quality of life (health, sport, education) because: ► a new nanocomposite material with graphene will be developed, for better medical treatments ► complex inter-/multidisciplinary studies will be performed, in order to elaborate and validate new standardized therapies based on advanced materials ►the development of a new perspective in dentistry, based on advanced theoretical and practical knowledge ► a research network will be developed which can ensure human resources for the top scientific research ► articles will be published in highly-ranked journals (ISI) ► research papers will be presented at international conferences ►valuable information will be disseminated among PhD/PostDoc students and researchers in the field of nanocomposite materials ►the equipments that will be purchased will develop the existing R&D infrastructure.

BIOGRAF project is aiming to deliver the following end-product(s)/ expected results:

► a new nanocomposite material with graphene, to be used in dental restoration therapy

► one laboratory technology for the synthesis of the nanocomposite material

►3 ISI papers, in highly ranked journals

►a patent.

DESIGN OF ORGANIC SPACERS FOR CONSTRUCTING METAL-ORGANIC FRAMEWORKS (MOFs) – TOWARDS A BETTER CONTROL OF THE POROUS ARCHITECTURE AND ACTIVE CATALYTIC SITES Call name: Complex Exploratory Research Projects - PCCE-2011 call
PN-II-ID-PCCE-2011-2-0050 2012 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: University of Bucharest

Project partners: University of Bucharest (RO); University of Bucharest (RO); Babes Bolyai University (RO); Babes Bolyai University (RO)

Affiliation: Babes Bolyai University (RO)

Project website: http://www.chimie.unibuc.ro/cercetare/anorganica/PCCE_M%20Andruh.pdf

Abstract:

The project aims to obtain a new generation of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) using novel families of made-by-design spacers (Cyclophane and cyclophane-like spacers with pre-formed cavities; C3-symmetry cryptand-based ligands; Tetrahedral synthons; Organometallic spacers featuring robust metal-carbon bonds, e. g. Organometallic halides, with appropriate organic groups attached to the metal centre to provide stability of the organometallic unit and/or potential to develop 3D architectures. The efforts will be concentrated towards compounds with the metal in lower oxidation state bearing a lone pair of electrons and thus higher reactivity). The construction of MOFs using organometallic tectons is a field largely unexplored. A special emphasis will be given to the post-synthesis processing of the MOFs (removal of solvent and weakly coordinated ligands; functionalization of selected MOFs by nanoconfinement with metal nanoparticles and functionalization for generation of acidic and basic sites). The sorption of various gases (H2, CO2, C2H2, etc.) as well the catalytic properties of the newly synthesized MOFs will be investigated. Enantioselective organic reactions catalyzed by chiral MOFs will be studied as well. In this scope MOFs functionalized with acid and base functions will be investigated in the asymmetric aldol reaction between representative ketones with various aromatic aldehydes under solvent-free conditions. The luminescence properties of some MOFs as well as the influence of the host molecules on the luminescence (especially for those containing lanthanide cations) will be investigated. The ability of the new MOFs for decontamination processes will be tested - more specifically, MOFs will be used as adsorbents for the molecules resulted from the degradation of pharmaceutical compounds via either liquid phase catalytic oxidation or plasma.

Carbon quantum dots: exploring a new concept for next generation optoelectronic devices. Call name: Complex Exploratory Research Projects - PCCE-2011 call
PN-II-ID-PCCE-2011-2-0069 2012 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: National Institute for Research and Development in Microtechnologies IMT-Bucharest

Project partners: National Institute for Research and Development in Microtechnologies IMT-Bucharest (RO); National Institute for Research and Development in Microtechnologies IMT-Bucharest (RO); Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University (RO); Faculty of Physics, Babes-Bolyai University (RO)

Affiliation: Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University (RO)

Project website: http://www.imt.ro/cqd_opto

Abstract:

Carbon nanodots (or Carbon quantum dots, CQDs) represent a newly discovered class of nanocarbon materials, inspiring the gradually expansion of research efforts due to the increasing number of identified favorable properties. In fact, in less than a decade (2004) since their first accidental identification in carbonaceous soot, surface-passivated CQDs are already rivaling the position of traditional semiconductor-based quantum dots as top-performance photoluminescent materials, while offering at the same time radical advantages in usability and production costs. Their immediate application in bioimaging is already ascertained, however scarce studies are employing these materials in non-biological fields, even though reports demonstrating the capacity for photo-induced electron-transfer behavior in CQD leads us to the conclusion that they may additionally hold compelling potential in photovoltaics and CQD-LEDs.

It is the goal of this project to demonstrate for the first time the functionality of optoelectronic devices – LEDs and PVs – based on CQDs by thoroughly understanding from experimental and theoretical point of views the electronic, optical and transport properties of the appropriately passivated CQDs.

FILE DESCRIPTION	DOCUMENT
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