BrainMap

Mr. Valentin-Adrian Maraloiu

PhD

Researcher II - INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Researcher | Scientific reviewer

Web of Science ResearcherID: E-9476-2010

Curriculum Vitae (06/02/2024)

Expertise & keywords

Nanoscaled ferroelectric (pseudo)-binary oxide thin film supercapacitors for flexible and ultrafast pulsed power electronics Call name: P 3 - SP 3.2 - Proiecte ERA.NET - COFUND
COFUND-M-ERANET-3-NanOx4Estor 2022 - 2024

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); Universidade do Minho (PT); Ecole Centrale de Lyon (FR)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: https://infim.ro/project/supercapacitori-oxidici-pseudo-binari-feroelectrici-sub-forma-de-filme-subtiri-nanometrice-pentru-dispozitive-electronice-flexibile-ultrarapide-in-regim-pulsat-nanox4estor/

Abstract:

The current momentum in boosting the effective utilization of renewable energy resources determines an increased request for dielectric supercapacitors as vital electronic elements for the DC-to-AC conversion of the collected/stored electrical energy, especially for the advanced propulsion systems in aircraft and automotive industry. Unlike batteries, dielectric supercapacitors can release the stored energy in a microsecond scaled period of time to create intense power pulses. Materials selected for highly performing dielectric supercapacitors should meet a series of prerequisites in terms of dielectric properties, temperature stability, energy density, and charge-discharge efficiency. The mainstream capacitors currently employed in power inverters for hybrid electric vehicles use polymer dielectrics (e.g. BOPP) for which additional cooling systems are necessary in order to keep the ambient temperature below the maximum operating temperature of the polymeric material. NanOx4EStor focuses on the creation of supercapacitors based on (pseudo-)binary oxide thin films, with improved energy storage density (>150 Jcm−3) and operating temperature for pulsed power applications.

Synaptic neuron-like structure based on HfO2/GeSn with ferroelectric field effect that simulates a three-terminal memristor Call name: P 1 - SP 1.1 - Proiecte de cercetare pentru stimularea tinerelor echipe independente - TE-2021
PN-III-P1-1.1-TE-2021-1537 2022 - 2024

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: https://infim.ro/en/project/synaptic-neuron-like-structure-based-on-hfo2-gesn-with-ferroelectric-field-effect-that-simulates-a-three-terminal-memristor/

Abstract:

This project propose the development of a synaptic structure based on HfOx/GexSn1-x with conductance modulated by ferroelectric field-effect. By improving the ferroelectric characteristics of HfOx using a high-mobility channel material (epi/poly GeSn) we obtain a synaptic neuron-like structure that simulate a three-terminal memristor for neuromorphic computing. The HfOx/GexSn1-x structure is obtained by reactive/non-reactive magnetron sputtering followed by Rapid Thermal Annealing in active working gas (H2/N2) to avoid the local disorder by passivating the dangling bonds and by healing the trap states. The remanent polarization will be enhanced for HfOx/GexSn1-x structure by controlling the interface between HfOx FeCAP and the GeSn high-mobility channel. The HfOx/GexSn1-x layers structure is morphological and structural characterized by XRD, XPS, HRTEM, and electrical measurements of the ferroelectric field-effect.

Cytotoxicity and biodegradation of cerium oxide-iron oxide nanoparticle platform as potential theranostic agent for ROS related diseases Call name: P 1 - SP 1.1 - Proiecte de cercetare pentru stimularea tinerelor echipe independente - TE-2021
PN-III-P1-1.1-TE-2021-0981 2022 - 2024

Role in this project: Project coordinator

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: https://infim.ro/en/project/cytobipothera-2/

Abstract:

Accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) causes the occurrence of numerous disorders, such as cancer, as well as cardiovascular, inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases.

An efficient strategy against such diseases relies on efficient diagnostic of the incipient stages of development using imaging techniques, but also on effective therapeutic systems. Systems containing nanoparticles with combined diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities, called theranostic agents, represent a new strategy for reducing the economic burden for healthcare systems produced by the effects of these diseases.

This multidisciplinary project will determine the cytotoxicity and the biodegradation of cerium oxide-iron oxide nanoparticle platform. This will be done using an acid medium mimicking the biological environment, in vitro using various 2D and 3D culture systems and in vivo using a murine model. The follow-up of theranostic agents in biological media will be studied up to two weeks for the in vitro model and up to three months for the in vivo murine model using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) techniques: conventional TEM and electron tomography for biolocalization and biodistribution of nanoparticles and their potential induced necrosis to cells; High Resolution TEM, Selected Area Electron Diffraction for biodegradation and biotransformation; Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy combined with Scanning TEM for evolution of oxidation states of O, Fe and Ce.

Multilayered floating gate nonvolatile memory device with GeSi nanocrystals nodes in nanocrystallized high k HfO2 for high efficiency data storage Call name: P 4 - Proiecte de Cercetare Exploratorie, 2020
PN-III-P4-ID-PCE-2020-1673 2021 - 2023

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: https://infim.ro/en/project/multilayered-floating-gate-nonvolatile-memory-device-with-gesi-nanocrystals-nodes-in-nanocrystallized-high-k-hfo2-for-high-efficiency-data-storage-multigesincmem/

Abstract:

The project goal is to fabricate a multilayered floating gate (FG) nonvolatile memory device (ML NVM) with charge storage nodes of GeSi nanocrystals (NCs) embedded in nanocrystallized high k HfO2 matrix (capacitor of top contact/ gate HfO2/ n layers of GeSi NCs in HfO2 as FG/ tunnel HfO2/ Si wafer/ bottom contact, n=1 to 5 for the 5 versions NVM1-NVM5). We target in project to obtain high performance ML NVMs (memory window >4 V, charge loss ratio

High-k Nanoparticle Multilayer Dielectrics for Nanoelectronics and Energy Storage Applications Call name: P 4 - Proiecte Complexe de Cercetare de Frontieră
PN-III-P4-ID-PCCF-2016-0175 2018 - 2022

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA "ŞTEFAN CEL MARE" DIN SUCEAVA

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA "ŞTEFAN CEL MARE" DIN SUCEAVA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA "ALEXANDRU IOAN CUZA" IASI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://nanomat.usv.ro/pagina-05-5-a.php

Abstract:

Dielectrics are insulating materials that have been the workhorse in computing and electronics. Since the invention of the transistor and the integrated circuit the modern complementary metal oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) technology heavily relied on rigid SiO2/Si substrates and the relentless downscaling of the size of the transistor has been the core driver for the information revolution. However, to meet the increasing need for miniaturization, low power function and portability in both the civilian and military sector, discrete electronic components, such as capacitors, resistors, inductors and transistors should be replaced by embedded circuitry. An important roadblock in the development of energy storage and memory/switching devices with increased efficiency and range of operation is the rather low dielectric permitivity and carrier mobilities of organic polymer materials. The four research teams of the present consortium, led by A. Rotaru (USV, Suceava), L. Mitoseriu (UAIC, Iasi), I. Pintilie (NIMP, Bucharest) and A. Marcu (INFLPR, Bucharest), propose to demonstrate proof concept of manufacturable nanocrystal film structures with a high dielectric permitivity with direct applications in high energy density storage and low-voltage modulated field effect transistors and logic devices. In addressing these challenges we will use complementary expertise in materials synthesis and characterization, device design and testing with the potential of disruptive innovation in flexible electronics.

VO2-BASED SMART WINDOWS Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2019-4642 2020 - 2022

Role in this project: Key expert

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

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://lspi.inflpr.ro/2020/PED306/PED306.html

Abstract:

A huge portion of the significant amount of energy consumed to maintain thermal comfort inside buildings is lost through windows. It is, therefore, imperative to use energy-efficient windows to facilitate the reduction of energy demand and carbon footprint in the building sector. Recently, efforts have been made by the scientific community to improve the efficiency of smart windows with dynamic approaches. Thermochromic smart windows (TSW) based on high-quality vanadium dioxide (VO2) coatings offer a very promising solution, having the ability of solar modulation and luminous transmittance. Compared to other potential solutions, such as electrochromic windows, TSW coatings are self-triggered without the need for a power supply and electrical wiring, which further decreases energy consumption and cost.

Although ongoing efforts, there is still room for improvement for the efficiency of TSW windows based on VO2 coatings. It is desirable to lower or, generally, control the critical temperature of the metal to insulator transition in VO2. This can be achieved by a few ways, such as doping, external field application, or imposed strain. Among these, doping and strain can be easily implemented and monitored by suitable growth methods. There is a clear relation between the effects of doping and strain in the optical properties of VO2 coatings. The unique properties of VO2 can be enhanced and/or tailored by using advanced fabrication processes. However, understanding the ways doping and strain affect the optical behaviour of VO2 coatings is a matter of great controversy and forms the plan of our proposal. This is part of a broader research plan, in which its long-term goal is the optimization of the VO2 based heterostructures, with a scope of their large-scale testing and commercialization.

Broadband photodetector based on hydrogenated GeSn layers. Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2019-4468 2020 - 2022

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://infim.ro/en/project/broadband-photodetector-based-on-hydrogenated-gesn-layers/

Abstract:

The main goal of this project is the obtaining by magnetron sputtering (MS) deposition and hydrogenation of GexSn1-x:H alloy, a new photosensitive material for fabrication of high sensitive broadband photodetectors. By increasing the Sn concentration in GeSn alloy, the bandgap is narrowed and changed from indirect to direct bandgap semiconductor, making GeSn a good candidate for photodetectors with extended sensitivity to short-wave infrared range (SWIR). At international level, the hydrogenation of GexSn1-x to obtained amorphous and nanocrystalline GexSn1-x:H represents the novelty of the project proposal. The role of hydrogen in GexSn1-x:H alloy is to passivate the structural unintended defects, in order to increase the photosensitivity. This is similar to other semiconductors based on group IV of elements (a-Si:H and a-SiGe:H) intensively studied and reported in literature. Two different technological routes of obtaining GexSn1-x:H will be investigated: i) MS deposition of GexSn1-x films with various Sn content followed by hydrogen plasma treatment at different annealing temperatures; ii) direct deposition of GexSn1-x:H by reactive MS in atmosphere of hydrogen diluted in argon. In both cases, the nanocrystallization will be obtained by in-situ annealing during MS deposition or ex-situ by RTA treatment. For achieving the final goal that of obtaining a broadband photodetector with high sensitivity in SWIR, complex characterizations of GexSn1-x:H layers will be performed to find out the optimal technological parameters of the demonstrator. The demonstrator will be functionally tested in the lab according to TRL3. Such photodetectors with high sensitivity in SWIR are imperatively desired to replace the actual market devices based on toxic materials PbS and InGaAs. The results of the project activities may serve to future research on GexSn1-x:H for other practical applications as for example tandem a-SiGeSn:H solar cells.

Advanced nanoelectronic devices based on graphene/ferroelectric heterostructures (GRAPHENEFERRO) Call name: P 4 - Proiecte Complexe de Cercetare de Frontieră
PN-III-P4-ID-PCCF-2016-0033 2018 - 2022

Role in this project: Key expert

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 BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

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

Abstract:

Applications such as high-frequency and neuromorphic circuits, optoelectronic/plasmonic detection of biomolecules or thermo-opto-electronics energy harvesting, require tunable and reconfigurable functionalities. Graphene is suitable for these applications because of electrostatic doping, its optical constants being tuned via gate voltages. However, oxide substrates limit the mobility in graphene to few thousands cm2/V•s. On the contrary, the mobility in graphene/ferroelectric (G/F) heterostructures is 2-3 orders of magnitude larger. The groundbreaking nature of the project is based on the possibility of significantly enhancing the functionality of graphene-based transistors/devices by using crystalline ferroelectric substrates instead of common oxides or SiC substrates. The G/F heterostructures allow: (i) the achievement of very high mobilities in G/F field effect transistors (FETs), which push the transistor gain in the 0.3-1 THz range, far above 70 GHz at which the maximum gain is attained nowadays, (ii) the fabrication of uncooled tunable detectors working in the THz and IR, (iii) the exploitation of the hysteretic resistance behaviour, essential for neuromorphic applications such as artificial synapses, (iv) the fabrication of reconfigurable microwave circuits, and (v) of tunable thermoelectronic devices, since graphene displays a giant thermoelectric effect. The project will consist of the design, fabrication and testing of groundbreaking, innovative nanoelectronic devices, in particular ultrafast electronic devices, neuromorphic circuits for computation, reconfigurable and harvesting devices, all based on the outstanding physical properties of G/F heterostructures. All fabrication techniques for growing graphene-ferroelectric heterostructures in this project should be scalable at wafer scale. The project is implemented by a consortium of 3 national R&D institutes and the leading Romanian university, which have the necessary advanced infrastructure.

Interplay structure-functionality in the case of nanostructured materials for gas sensors by electron tomography and operando TEM Call name: P 3 - SP 3.1 - Proiecte de mobilități, România-Franța (bilaterale)
PN-III-P3-3.1-PM-RO-FR-2019-0219 2019 - 2021

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); Institut de Physique et Chimie des Matériaux de Strasbourg (FR)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: https://infim.ro/en/project/interplay-structure-functionality-by-electron-tomography-and-operando-tem/

Abstract:

The current project of bilateral cooperation aims at strengthening the collaboration relationship between the two leading research entities in the field of materials science in Romania (NIMP) and France (IPCMS), thus contributing to the creation of a European research area. The project has two sides: a scientific side, focused on the finding the correlation between the microstructural and the functional properties of new materials to be used as gas sensors, and a forming side consisting in activities of learning and know-how transfer from the French partner towards the Romanian researchers, contributing to the increase of NIMP visibility as an important Romanian center of excellence in materials science, nanoscience and nanotechnology. A national research project dedicated on studying the morphological, structural and functional properties of the nanostructured materials for gas sensing is currently being developed at NIMP in the frame of the National Plan for Research, Development and Innovation 2015-2020 (project code PN-III-P4-ID-PCE-2016-0529) to which all the researchers involved in the current proposal have already been contributing. This project of bilateral cooperation will come to support the mentioned national research project, representing a source of added value both at the scientific and human resource forming level by involving advanced investigation techniques (electron tomography, operando investigations) and scientific competences not yet available in Romania.

Intelligent therapies for non-communicable diseases based on controlled release of pharmacological compounds from encapsulated engineered cells and targeted bionanoparticles Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0697 2018 - 2021

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE BIOLOGIE SI PATOLOGIE CELULARA ,,NICOLAE SIMIONESCU''

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE BIOLOGIE SI PATOLOGIE CELULARA ,,NICOLAE SIMIONESCU'' (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE MACROMOLECULARA "PETRU PONI" (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://www.icbp.ro/static/en/en-networking_grants-grants-national_grants/intera.html

Abstract:

Non-communicable diseases (atherosclerosis, diabetes, obesity), a major cause of mortality, are characterized by associated inflammatory processes. The complex project INTERA aims to develop innovative therapeutic methods to ameliorate the pathological progression by reducing the inflammatory process. The multidisciplinary studies proposed by INTERA can create and define new nano- or micro-medical devices usable for smart and innovative anti-inflammatory therapies. INTERA includes 4 projects: (1) Encapsulation of genetically manipulated eukaryotic cells for controlled release of pharmacologically active products; (2) Development of a 3D platform designed for pre-clinical drug testing composed of cells incorporated into three-dimensional bio-matrices; (3) Intelligent nanobioparticles designed for bioactive compounds vectoring to pathological sites for vascular inflammation targeting. (4) Polymeric conjugates for efficiently inducing the expression of genes of interest with applicability in cellular therapy. The consortium consists of 4 partner research units - two institutes of the Romanian Academy (IBPCNS, ICMP), a university (UPB) and a national CD Institute (INCDFM) with good territorial coverage (Bucharest-Ilfov-Iasi). Predicted Indicators: 10 new R & D jobs, 8 ISI articles, 4 patent applications, 8 new technologies, 7 new service offers posted on the ERRIS platform. Institutional development: the new competences and the improvement of existing ones in partner units will attract the attention of the economic environment towards a better correlation of scientific and economic interests and better valorization in the field of drug science. From a social point of view, institutional development will lead to lowering the cost of these pathologies through new therapeutic approaches, more accessible to the population and hence, improving the quality of life.

Advanced materials and laser / plasma processing technologies for energy and depollution: increasing the applicative potential and scientific interconnection in the field of eco-nanotechnologies Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0755 2018 - 2021

Role in this project: Key expert

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); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); UNIVERSITATEA PITESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: https://malasent46.wixsite.com/malasent

Abstract:

The MALASENT project proposes the development of research competencies of the consortium members in the field of advanced materials and their novel processing technologies, as well as a potential transfer towards industrial beneficiaries, for the energy production and complex decontamination of water and air. The scientific objectives associated this project proposal are the following:

- development of catalytic systems based on advanced materials processed by laser techniques and plasma, for complex processes of decontamination of residual waters and reduction of toxic exhaust gases emitted by internal combustion engines.

- development of heterostructures of advanced materials obtained by laser techniques and plasma for the production of energy through photolytic dissociation of the water molecule or photovoltaic.

- integration of the advanced materials through laser/plasma techniques in photocatalytic and photovoltaic applications at the industrial level.

The project proposal aims to consolidate, numerically and professionally, the human resources of the consortium, especially for the partner institution with recovery possibilities. Moreover, the project pursues an increase in the service providing capabilities for research services and in the establishment of consolidated collaborations with industrial beneficiaries, as well as in the visibility at the national and international level of the consortium members.

NEW METHODS OF DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT: CURRENT CHALLENGES AND TECHNOLOGIC SOLUTIONS BASED ON NANOMATERIALS AND BIOMATERIALS Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0062 2018 - 2021

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" (RO); UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE "CAROL DAVILA" (RO); UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE "GRIGORE T. POPA" DIN IAŞI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE CHIMICO - FARMACEUTICA - I.C.C.F. BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO); UNIVERSITATEA TRANSILVANIA BRASOV (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://infim.ro/en/project/sanomat/

Abstract:

The project will develop novel conceptual and functional solutions of biomedical devices for treatment, reinforcement/repair/replacement (of human tissues) and diagnosis based on nanostructured and/or biocompatible materials, with high attractivity and certain potential for technology transfer to industry. The experience of the interdisciplinary consortium will allow a passage from concepts of nanomaterials and biomaterials with extended and/or complementary functional features to implementation to new biomedical applications of great interest: (i) antitumoral therapeutic systems (by localized magnetic hyperthermia, photodynamic therapy and drug delivery); (ii) biocompatible compounds with enhanced antimicrobial efficacy; (iii) stent or vein/arterial filters implants based on ferromagnetic shape-memory alloys (with the advantage of repositioning without the need of new invasive interventions); (iv) personalized bone regenerative implants (i.e. porous ceramic scaffolds for bone tissue engineering; dental implants with rapid osseointegration); (v) (bio)sensors for monitoring the bioavailability of pharmaceutical compounds and detecting the reactive oxygen species and their biologic effect; and (vi) correlation of physico-chemical properties with clinical investigations for two types of aerosols (salt particles and essential oils), and their prospective coupling with possible synergistic effects. The synergic development of the institutional capacity of the project partners will be achieved by: creating new jobs and purchasing new equipment and software, providing technical/scientific assistance to the emerging institutions, initiating and fostering collaborations with partners from industry in view of technology transfer, and increasing the international visibility of the involved institutions by capitalizing on the obtained research results. The project will create the core of the first national cluster in the field of healthcare technologies.

SiGeSn nanocrystals with charge storage properties at nanoscale Call name: P 1 - SP 1.1 - Proiecte de cercetare pentru stimularea tinerelor echipe independente
PN-III-P1-1.1-TE-2016-2366 2019 - 2021

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://infim.ro/en/project/sigesn-nanocrystals-with-charge-storage-properties-at-nanoscale-sigesnanomem/

Abstract:

The project aims to obtain nanostructured materials based on SiGeSn nanocrystals (NCs) embedded in oxide matrix with charge storage properties for non-volatile memory applications. The material is completely new, beyond the state of the art as no reports on SiGeSn NCs in oxides are to be found in literature. The project goal will be achieved by 5 specific objectives: O1) obtaining trilayer capacitors with the floating gate of SiGeSn NCs embedded in oxide matrix (SiO2, HfO2) by magnetron sputtering deposition and nanostructuring by thermal annealing; O2) morphology and structure characterisation of NCs-based trilayers for optimizing technological parameters; O3) investigation of electrical and charge storage properties and their correlation with structure and morphology; O4) evaluation of memory parameters of SiGeSn NCs based capacitors in function of NCs morphology and composition; O5) dissemination of project results. For this, the trilayer approach will be used aiming to obtain memory capacitor-like structures with floating gate based on SiGeSn NCs playing the role of charge storage nodes, the NCs having optimal size and density, being properly positioned in respect to Si substrate at tunnelable distance as well as being well separated to each other. More than that, the SiGeSn NCs spatial distribution in the floating gate will be optimized for obtaining a 2D array. The memory properties (memory window and retention) will be controlled by varying the NCs composition and size, by obtaining tunnel oxide with high material quality and proper thickness. The good and complementary expertise of team members ensures the implantation of project in a thematic beyond the state of the art. The original scientific results will be published in 5 papers in high impact ISI-ranked journals and presented at prestigious international conferences.

From 2D to 3D+ nanoscale characterization of advanced functional materials Call name: P 4 - Proiecte de Cercetare Exploratorie
PN-III-P4-ID-PCE-2016-0529 2017 - 2019

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://infim.ro/project/caracterizarea-la-scala-nanometrica-a-materialelor-functionale-avansate-de-la-2d-la-3d/

Abstract:

In materials science, when designing and investigating the chemo-physical properties of new materials the sine qua non starting point is represented by the necessity to identify, understand and control the microstructure of the examined material. Nanosciences and nanotechnology require manipulating nano-objects or even individual atoms, which requires complementary spectroscopic, diffraction and imaging techniques able to provide information at nanometric scale or below. One of the major challenges today in designing and engineering nanoscale functional materials is the complex 3D characterization on a nanometric scale. Electron tomography represents the only reliable technique to provide 3D morphological, structural and analytical information at nanometric scale. In our country we are now able to perform state-of-the-art analytical microstructural investigations by HRTEM, STEM and EELS, including atomic resolution elemental mapping or direct visualization of light atomic species. Electron tomography has been only introduced and developed in the field of life sciences, being currently applied in cellular biology, while electron tomography in materials science is not yet present. The scientific motivation of this project is to open the way at the national level towards electron tomography in materials science as a new dimension in the microstructural characterization of the advanced functional materials. The project will be focused on metal oxide semiconductors (MOS) functional materials to be used as gas sensors for environmental monitoring. Along with complementary spectroscopic techniques (EELS, XPS, EPR) the project will create a complete “3D+” insight (3 spatial + 1 spectroscopic dimensions) into the fine chemo-physical processes at nanometric scale in order to reveal and understand the connection between the 3D microstructural/spectroscopic properties and the functionality of the MOS gas sensing systems.

Innovative nano-materials and architectures for integrated piezoelectric energy harvesting applications Call name: P 3 - SP 3.2 - Proiecte ERA.NET
M.ERANET-3184-HarvEnPiez-1 2016 - 2019

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://infim.ro/en/project/innovative-nano-materials-and-architectures-for-integrated-piezoelectric-energy-harvesting-applications/

Abstract:

In an era of shrinking conventional energy resources, the development of low-power-consumption

portable devices, sensors and body-implantable devices, the concept of generating power by harvesting

energy from the ambient environment and biomechanical movements is attracting huge interest. The most

efficient way to harvest electrical energy from mechanical movements is to utilize the piezoelectricity of

ferroelectrics. In the HarvEnPiez project, the influence of shape and size on the piezoelectricity of

ferroelectric particles will be predicted by ab-initio calculations. Different ferroelectric particles with

defined sizes and shapes of plates, cubes and/or wires will be synthesized and systematically selfassembled

on a substrate for the energy-harvesting devices. A high-performance device will be developed

based on the optimized composition, shape, size and orientation of the ferroelectric particles and/or the

enhancement of the piezoelectricity through lattice-strain engineering.

Photo-Electric Capacitor Memory based on Ge-Nanocrystals Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2016-0286 2017 - 2018

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://www.infim.ro/PhotoElCaNanoMem

Abstract:

The main goal of the project is the fabrication of photo-electric Ge nanocrystals-based memories for eco-nanotechnology applications, combining an optical sensor with a non-volatile electronic memory in a single new device. In such device, both the electric field and the light can control the charge injection into the Ge nanocrystals (NCs) and thus the memory states of the device. It may work as a photo-electric sensor floating-gate memory, or a photo-electro switch floating-gate memory for event detection reversible device, with applications to security systems, intelligent home systems, integrated silicon photonics, etc. The used materials and fabrication technology are eco-friendly and compatible with silicon technology. In this project, the demonstrator is designed as a transparent electrode-oxide-semiconductor (MOS-type) capacitor memory with Ge-NCs in oxide matrix, NCs being coupled to the Si-substrate through a thin tunnel oxide. The active layers will be fabricated by magnetron sputtering deposition followed by rapid thermal annealing. The charge exchange between the substrate and the Ge-NCs can be controlled by electric field applied between the substrate and a gate (top) contact. At intermediary voltages, the capacitance-voltage characteristic shows hysteresis. The charge retention can be optimized for long term or dynamic memory. For top-illuminated demonstrator proposed by this project, a transparent electrode will be used and the retention dynamic will be optimised for photo-electric control of charge storage. The device operation is based on the generation of electrons and holes pairs under illumination and by this activation of the tunnelling process resulting in changes of the hysteresis states. The novelty of the proposed project consists in realization of a photo-sensitive Ge-NCs floating gate memory, tuning the structure of the demonstrator in order to obtain simultaneously electrical and optical control of the memory effect.

Integrated sensors with microfluidic features using LTCC technology Call name: P 3 - SP 3.2 - Proiecte ERA.NET
ERA-M-INTCERSEN 2015 - 2017

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA TEHNICĂ "GHEORGHE ASACHI" IAŞI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA TEHNICĂ "GHEORGHE ASACHI" IAŞI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); INTELECTRO IAŞI SRL (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://www.demm.ee.tuiasi.ro/intcersen/

Abstract:

The main focus of the INTCESEN is the development and fabrication design of innovative ceramic microfluidic devices with integrated sensing features with applications on bio-medical, environment and security. The LTCC technology versatility will allow the 3D integration of electrochemical sensing areas with microfluidic features, and further advanced signal processing and wireless communication. The result will be one system to provide all of the possible required analyses for a given type problem, with all processing steps performed on the same chip, with no user interaction required except for initialization. The progress beyond the state-of-the-art represents, one side, the integration of sensing features within LTCC technology by use of innovative materials, for the purpose of integrating electrochemical sensing features, and, on the other side, the use of this reproducible technology for generating reliable microfluidic lab-on-chip systems with intersectorial applications.

Distribution and dynamics of paramagnetic impurities in nanostructured ZnO for advanced applications in spintronics, opto- and nanoelectronics Call name: Projects for Young Research Teams - RUTE -2014 call
PN-II-RU-TE-2014-4-0939 2015 - 2017

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://www.infim.ro/projects/distribution-and-dynamics-paramagnetic-impurities-nanostructured-zno-advanced-applications

Abstract:

Magnetic and electrical properties of doped nanostructures can be tailored by varying the impurities concentration and distribution, cleverly manipulating their segregation degree. Currently used methods for mapping the nature and distribution of low concentration (

New high-performance crystals for the development of high-power tunable visible laser sources based on nonlinear optical processes Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA 2013 - call
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-1488 2014 - 2017

Role in this project: Key expert

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); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); APEL LASER S.R.L. (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://ecs.inflpr.ro/LucianGheorghe_PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-1488_NOVILAS.html

Abstract:

The concept of the proposed project is to develop new high-performance nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals in order to manufacture high-power tunable visible laser sources based on NLO processes in the new crystals.

According to current international research in the field of NLO materials and solid-state laser sources, the general objective the NOVILAS project is to develop new and innovative NLO crystals in order to design and realize high-power laser systems emitting in the VIS spectral range (especially in the green range) based on second harmonic generation (SHG) and/or self-frequency doubling (SFD) processes. The fulfilment of this objective involves:

(i) identification, growth, optimization and characterization of pure and rare earths-activated new NLO crystals with appropriate characteristics for highly efficient generation of high-power VIS radiation by SHG and SFD processes, respectively;

(ii) functionality demonstration and performance evaluation of new NLO and/or laser crystals;

(iii) development of experimental and functional models of new NLO and/or laser crystals with suitable properties for highly efficient, high-power frequency conversion of NIR radiations;

(iv) obtaining and optimization of new high-power visible laser systems;

(v) laboratory and commercial level design and development of experimental and functional models of high-power visible laser sources based on SHG and/or SFD processes.

The project is an exciting challenge to demonstrate the real potentiality of pure and Yb-doped LaxMySc4-x-y(BO3)4 – LMSB (M = Y or Lu) crystals as the next generation candidates for high-power frequency conversion, and it will provide important scientific contributions to increase the energetic efficiency and to improve the functional performance and reliability of important photonic devices, including petawatt-class lasers, inertial confinement fusion devices, etc.

Temperature sensor based on GHz operating AlN/Si SAW structures Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA 2013 - call
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-0677 2014 - 2017

Role in this project: Key expert

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); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); ROM-QUARTZ S.A. (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

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

Abstract:

The main objective of this project consists in the manufacturing of the first temperature sensor based on a SAW type device on AlN/Si. The sensor is based on the variation of the SAW resonance frequency vs. temperature. The sensor will be characterized ”on wafer” in the 25-150 oC temperature range. The sensor structures mounted on a special ceramic carrier, provided with SMA connectors and cables, will be characterized in the 5-500 K temperature range inside a cryostat. We aim to obtain a sensitivity >75 ppm/oC (on-wafer measurements) and 60 ppm/ oC for measurements with connectors and cables, in the 23-150 oC temperature range.

The project corresponds to the world wide effort to obtain acoustic devices operating in the gigahertz frequency range, using wide band gap semiconductors (AlN, GaN). These materials have very good piezoelectric properties. High quality GaN and AlN layers grown or deposited on Sapphire SiC or Si substrate permits to use in the fabrication protocol nanolithography, micromachining techniques and monolithic integration. The advantage of using AlN for the SAW structure consist in the possibility to obtain a higher resonance frequency and a higher sensitivity for the sensor. The project has few objectives beyond the state of the art.

The main element will be a SAW structure on AlN/Si with the resonance frequency in the 6-9 GHz range. The highest resonance frequency obtained up to now for SAW structures on AlN/Si is 5.1 GHz and was reported by the IMT and INCD-FM groups, partners in this project, using an IDT structure with digits and interdigit spacing 300 nm wide. This project requires interdigitated transducers having the digit/interdigit spacing 80-150 nm wide, a challenge due to the major difficulties of the nanolithographyic process on materials like AlN or GaN. Up to now, the narrowest lines on AlN have been reported on an AlN/Diamond based SAW structure in 2012 (200 nm).

For the proposed sensor a „single resonator” structure will be developed. Compared with classical structures based on face-to-face resonators and delay lines, the single resonator structure offers few advantages: higher quality factor, lower losses and mainly, higher values for the sensitivity, as it was recently proved by IMT for GaN.

A two steps, low temperature, deposition process will be developed, for the synthesis of thin AlN films. The goal is to lower the FWHM of rocking curve at 1.5° for the AlN films deposited on Si.

There is a potential advantage of monolithic integration of the SAW based AlN temperature sensor in a CMOS ICs. AlN technology is CMOS compatible, due to its low deposition temperature. In such circuits fabrication protocols contain nanolithographic processes, therefore these processes for the sensor will not add significant costs.

The project consortium consists in four teams with excellent expertise and complementarity in the project topics. The IMT team has many contributions in the state of the art for acoustic devices on GaN and AlN, in nanolithography and microwave characterization. INCD-FM has an excellent expertise in high quality AlN films deposition. UPB has excellence expertise in design and modelling of high frequency devices and circuits. ROMQUARZ is the only Romanian enterprise with an authentiq experience in SAW type devices manufacturing on classical piezoelectric materials.They have been involved in SAW devices manufacturing on non-semiconductor materials (quartz, lithium niobate, etc) in the last 20 years.

Antireflection coatings for ultra-short high power lasers Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA 2013 - call
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-1870 2014 - 2017

Role in this project: Key expert

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

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

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

Abstract:

The ARCOLAS project addresses an important topic fitted with specific thematic area of New Photonic Materials, namely design and testing as demonstrator of durable advanced antireflection (AR) coatings for plasma mirrors working in ultra-short TW/PW lasers systems.

It is intimate related to the existing high level technological ultra-short pulses lasers network facility in NILPRP (CO) and, with the aim and goal to upscale the obtained optical components for the unique ELI-NP facility to be built in the Magurele research area and where NILPRP is involved as partner.

The project answers to the demand for optical components used to ultra-short high power lasers systems because the number of these facilities is increasing and there are only two suppliers in the world.

The project will be developed in precise steps, following the concept in its theoretical and practical aspects.

First, the composition/combination of the dielectric materials with different refractive indices to be used as thin film(s) and/or heterostructures with antireflection properties will be studied.

The different layers will be obtained by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) and PLD assisted by a Radio-Frequency discharge (RF-PLD).

The experimental parameters for obtaining of each layer and of layers combination will be established after their careful characterization by specific techniques as AFM, XRD, spectroellipsometry, SIMS, SEM, HR-TEM, with high performance equipments belonging to the involved partners.

Then, optical components – demonstrators with controlled antireflection characteristics will be obtained based on dielectric layers with optimized properties and deposition architecture with the objective to be compatible with generation of plasma mirrors capable to withstand high energies ultra-short laser pulses.

Simultaneously, computer simulation studies regarding the phenomena that rise when a high energy ultra-short laser beam hits a material will be performed using Particle in Cell-Finite Difference Time Domain method.

Of a paramount importance in the project will be the components-demonstrator for plasma mirror testing in ultra-short high intensity laser field, in relativistic regime (intensities of 1018 W/cm2 - 1020 W/cm2). This will be made at INFLPR, where there is already established a complete and unique power-chain laser system: GIWALAS – GW, TEWALAS – TW and CETAL – 1 PW. The possibility of the direct access to these facilities will allow a rapid feedback regarding the AR coating behavior in the plasma mirror regime.

An important aspect is related to the prospective to use the demonstrator for the future 10 PW ELI-NP facility, where ultra-relativistic regime (1023 - 1024 W/cm2) are expected to be generated.

The industrial partner has the ability to design and produce the supports for optical components capable of withstanding high power ultra-short laser pulses.

The generated results will be the subject of patents first, as the topic is of vanguard, and of publications in high impact journal.

Atomically resolved structure and interface related phenomena in nano-scale modulated smart materials Call name: Exploratory Research Projects - PCE-2012 call
PN-II-ID-PCE-2012-4-0362 2013 - 2016

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://www.infim.ro/projects/atomically-resolved-structure-and-interface-related-phenomena-nano-scale-modulated-smart

Abstract:

Physical properties of advanced materials like artificial multiferroics, multilayered structures of semiconductors, shape memory alloys (SMA) result from the interaction between the micro- or nano-scale components (crystal grains, thin films), involving interface processes. The importance of the interface phenomena and of the associated structural defects increases with the size reduction of the involved crystal grains or thin layers. Getting accurate structural information at and near the interface between the nanoscaled components (atomic structure of the interface, associated extended defects, strain fields) becomes mandatory in understanding and designing the physical properties of new materials. Advanced techniques of analytical electron microscopy along with consecrated structural and thermal analysis techniques using state-of-the-art equipments will be mainly employed for thorough microstructural investigations on two classes of materials for which interface phenomena play a crucial role: i. artificial multiferroics and ii. shape memory alloys.

The project specific objectives are:

1. Atomic structure of interfaces and structural defects in artificial multiferroics.

2. Strain field and composition mapping at atomic scale around interfaces and structural defects in artificial multiferroics.

3. Correlation between structural phase transitions and strain fields in nanoscale modulated SMAs.

4. Atomically resolved crystal structure in nanoscale modulated SMAs.

Novel nanostructured semiconductor materials based on Ge nanoparticles in different oxides for aplications in VIS-NIR photodetectors and nonvolatile memory devices Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA-2011 call, Type 2
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2011-3.2-1120 2012 - 2016

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE- DEZVOLTARE PENTRU MICROTEHNOLOGIE - IMT BUCURESTI INCD (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE PENTRU OPTOELECTRONICA INOE 2000 INCD (RO); INTERNET S.R.L. (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://www.infim.ro/ro/NODE/3960

Abstract:

The primary aim is to obtain novel nanostructured semiconductor materials based on Ge nanoparticles (nps) with optimized properties to be used in photodetectors for the visible and infrared (VIS-NIR) ranges, and also in nonvolatile (NV) memory devices. This aim will be realized in the following objectives: A) Preparation and characterization of nanostructured films based on Ge nps in SiO2, TiO2, HfO2, with optimized photoconductive and electrical properties; B) Preparation and complex characterization of experimental models for VIS-NIR photodetector and NV memory using the optimized materials; C) Fabrication of VIS-NIR photodetector and NV memory to prove experimentally the concepts of the project and its applications; D) Estimation of the economic impact.

Based on the material research (Phase 1), and on the investigations of structures and experimental models (Phase 2), two prototypes will be fabricated in Phase 3, one for the VIS-NIR photodetector, and one for the NV memory, with corresponding technical specifications. Thus, we will prove that the novel nanostructured materials based on Ge nps obtained in this project are suitable for VIS-NIR photodetectors and NV memory devices. Also, the technical and economical analyses documentation and feasibility studies will be performed (Phase 4).

The two devices will be integrated into a system for event identification and an automated test and measurement system for industrial applications and manufacturing devices will be realized.

The results obtained by achieving the project objectives have a high level of originality and novelty. Therefore, the scientific results will be promoted in 5 papers in peer-reviewed journals, and in 7 communications at prestigious international conferences. The technological results will be the object of 3 patent applications.

Young students will be involved in the project, and this will have a formative effect (Master Dissertations and/or PhD theses).

Microstructural transformations of thin films by pulsed laser irradiation at fluences lower than the ablation threshold Call name: Exploratory Research Projects - PCE-2011 call
PN-II-ID-PCE-2011-3-0268 2011 - 2016

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare Dezvoltare pentru Fizica Materialelor

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare Dezvoltare pentru Fizica Materialelor (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare Dezvoltare pentru Fizica Materialelor (RO)

Project website: http://www.infim.ro/projects/microstructural-transformations-thin-films-pulsed-laser-irradiation-fluences-lower-ablation

Abstract:

The project refers to the microstructural transformations induced on thin films by pulsed laser irradiation at low fluences, lower than the ablation threshold. At microscopic scale, the laser irradiation actions shows some new features which are related to the laser wavelength, especially in the case of coherent laser radiation. The project work is focused on the photomechanical effect of the coherent laser beam on the structure of densified amorphous sol-gel oxide films, on structural phase modifications in mixed thin films and on the behavior of the melted metallic films and microsphere formation under the action of high power laser pulses.The structural studies are performed by conventional and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), electron and X ray diffraction.

MODULATING THE PROPERTIES OF SEMICONDUCTING QUANTUM DOTS WITH LATTICE DEFECTS Call name: Exploratory Research Projects - PCE-2011 call
PN-II-ID-PCE-2011-3-0194 2011 - 2016

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare Dezvoltare pentru Fizica Materialelor

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare Dezvoltare pentru Fizica Materialelor (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare Dezvoltare pentru Fizica Materialelor (RO)

Project website: http://www.infim.ro/projects/modulating-properties-semiconducting-quantum-dots-lattice-defects

Abstract:

Small (d

Structural biotransformations of magnetic nanoparticles in biological environments Call name: Postdoctoral Research Projects - PD-2011 call
PN-II-RU-PD-2011-3-0067 2012 - 2013

Role in this project: Project coordinator

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Fizica Materialelor

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Fizica Materialelor (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Fizica Materialelor (RO)

Project website: http://www.infim.ro/projects/structural-biotransformations-magnetic-nanoparticles-biological-environments

Abstract:

As applications of nanotechnologies for life and health sciences get booming, magnetic nanovectors undergo a considerable development. In order to use them in human patients, it is important to understand their interactions with the targeted regions in the body. For this purposes, structural studies will be carried out through innovative developments based on electron microscopies down to subnanometric resolution.

The biodistribution and biotransformation of the ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide contrast (USPIO) agents in the tissular and cellular environments will be investigated at increasing spatial resolution using different techniques. The preparation of ex vivo samples for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) adaptated from standard protocols will allow acquiring high resolution HR(TEM)images and electron diffraction patterns of crystallized USPIO contrast agents in various organs (liver, spleen) of the mouse. A longitudinal follow-up of USPIO nanoparticles injected in mice for MRI of the atherotic plaque will be made: the results will be interpreted in terms of agglomeration of the particles with a decreasing size depending on time after injection and compared with a model of in vitro degradation in acidic environment proposed to mimick the lysosomal metabolism.

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List of research grants as project coordinator or partner team leader	Download (103.66 kb) 13/08/2024
Significant R&D projects for enterprises, as project manager
R&D activities in enterprises
Peer-review activity for international programs/projects