Institute of Physics
Analysis of microstructure formation and its influence on selected properties of lead-free solders
Analýza tvorby mikroštruktúry a jej vplyv na vybrané vlastnosti bezolovnatých spájok
Carbon-silicon based composite anodes for Li-ion batteries
Anódy pre Li-iónové batérie na báze uhlík-kremíkových kompozitov
Rational design of hydrogel microcapsules for immunoprotection of transplanted pancreatic islets in diabetes treatment
Cielený dizajn hydrogélových mikrokapsúl pre imunitnú ochranu pankreatických ostrovčekov v liečbe cukrovky
| Duration: |
7.1.2019 - 30.6.2023 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
Dr. Rer. Nat. Šiffalovič Peter DrSc. |
| Annotation: | This project is devoted to our continuous effort aimed at the diabetes treatment by transplanted insulin-producing
cells that are immunoprotected from the host immune system by a semipermeable polymer membrane. This
membrane is in the form of a hydrogel microcapsule formed by the polyelectrolyte complexation of polyanions,
the sodium alginate (SA) and sodium cellulose sulfate (SCS) with the polycation poly(methylene-co-
cyanoguanidine), (PMCG). Over the past two decades we have accumulated important knowledge showing that
this type of microcapsule (acronym PMCG), belongs to the family of microcapsules with a promise to reach the
phase of clinical trials. There are two principal advantages of this microcapsule: (1) it exhibits biocompatibility
after intraperitoneal implantation to various animal models, including the pre-clinical model of non-human
primates (NHP), (2) it affords a unique ability to tailor the physico-chemical properties in correlation with in vivo
performance that is not possible for other encapsulation systems. The MICROPAN project aims at the first
systematic investigation for the microencapsulation system of the correlation between polymer selection, encapsulation conditions, microcapsule properties and in vivo performance. This is thanks to the availability of in-
house synthesized SCS and PMCG polymers used instead of commercial polymers with inconsistent
characteristics. The expected project outcome will be the library of microcapsules of predicted performance in
vivo in the immunocompetent mice with the proposal to test selected microcapsules in NHPs that will be planned
outside of MICROPAN project. This project will enhance our understanding of the mechanism of microcapsule
formation by polyelectrolyte complexation and, hence, will contribute to the future rational designs of
microcapsules for immunoprotection of transplanted cells. |
Carbon-based particulate micro- and mesoporous materials from natural precursors
Časticové mikro- a mezopórovité materiály na báze uhlíka z prírodných prekurzorov
| Duration: |
1.1.2022 - 31.12.2025 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Maťko Igor CSc. |
| Annotation: | The presented project includes basic research in the field of particulate micro- and mesoporous carbon-based materials (PCM) with significant application impacts. It represents an original approach to the development of a method for the preparation of several types of PCM with significant sorption properties and a wide application potential. To optimize their use it is necessary to know in detail their physical properties (microstructure and porosity) and find a connection between the conditions during the formation of PCM (carbonization) and resulting microstructure, which is the first intention of the project. The originality lies in the combination of different physical methods of studying PCM, using standard sophisticated techniques (electron microscopy) as well as non-standard methods such as positron annihilation spectroscopy, thermoporosimetry and gamma spectrometry. Another purpose is to find procedures for the appropriate modification of PCM and elaboration of composites for several applications. |
Design of complex quantum measurements (DESCOM)
Dizajn zložitých kvantových meraní (DESCOM)
| Duration: |
1.1.2021 - 31.12.2024 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Doc. Mgr. Ziman Mário PhD. |
| Annotation: | Many aspects of quantum measurements are conceptually puzzling. However, their practical implementation is of interest for current development of quantum technologies. Interestingly, it is also a theoretical challenge to develop novel tools and efficiently design desired quantum measurements. The canonical implementations are often very complex and possible only in theory. The goal of this project is to investigate and design measurements in three different conceptual frameworks - system of cloud universal quantum computers, thermodynamic machines, and superconducting qubits. We will develop novel simulations of existing physical systems to learn about their ability to accomplish the considered quantum measurements. As a result, we expect realistic proposals for new quantum measuring apparatuses, tools for implementing complex quantum observables efficiently also on existing quantum infrastructures, and specification of certifiable requirements that such infrastructure should meet. |
Effects in spatially confined diffusion systems
Efekty v priestorovo ohraničených difúznych systémoch
| Duration: |
1.1.2021 - 31.12.2023 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Kalinay Pavol CSc. |
| Annotation: | We deal with particles diffusing in non homogeneous quasi-one dimensional systems (nanochannels, pores),
driven by external forces or chemical reactions. We study effects which can appear in such systems, like anomalous behavior of mobility, diffusivity, or rectification of particle flow, the ratchet effect. These effects are basic for description of particle separators, Brownian pumps, or molecular motors in nano- and biophysics. We use our new method of dimensional reduction of a 2D/3D advection -diffusion equation (Fokker-Planck in general)
onto the longitudinal coordinate of the channel, including correctly the forces, as well as nontrivial boundary conditions at the channel walls. The result is the generalized Fick-Jacobs equation, enabling us to calculate the key physical quantities in a straightforward way, e.g. mobility, diffusivity, mean transition times, etc. The project involves development of the method of dimensional reduction, extension to more complicated systems, as well as its applications. |
Superconducting spintronics and emergent phenomena in low/dimensional superconductors
Emergentné javy a spintronika supravodičov v systémoch s redukovanou dimenziou
| Duration: |
1.5.2022 - 30.4.2027 |
| Program: |
IMPULZ |
| Project leader: |
Doc. Mgr. Kochan Denis PhD. |
| Annotation: | From a broader perspective the Superconducting spintronics is vastly expanding field that strives to utilize spintronics phenomena and transfer its applications into the realm of superconductivity. While the latter can support dissipation-less charge transport, and also topologically protected (e.g. Majorana) modes, the former can make use of electron spin for encoding and processing information. For these reasons, one may hope to launch a spin-driven superconducting device that would be, on one hand, very efficient in terms of energy demands, and on the other hand, would offer computational functionalities operating on quantum principles. The beauty of the above idea rests in its simplicity, but as always, devil is hidden in details. To bring such spintronics vision into an operating platform one would need superconducting materials that promote unconventional pairing of electrons into Cooper pairs. Unfortunately, Nature does not give us “free of charge” unconventional superconductors with all those wonderful properties. However, it offers us, instead, “smaller pieces of material-lego” that when being proximitized along each other engender the “scaffolded synthetic hybrid systems” owning effective unconventional pairing (and even much more). Such proximity effects, which are central to my proposal, represent a versatile platform to 1) control and functionalize spin, orbital, topological and magnetic properties of the constituting subsystems by external means – gating, temperature gradients, chemical composition, band structure engineering etc.; and 2) synthetize quasi-2D interfaces promoting an unconventional superconducting pairing and them associated topological bound states (Majoranas, Yu-Shiba-Rusinov states, Caroli-de Gennes-Matricon vortex states, etc.). From the specific point of views, my research ambitions within this programme count particularly two scientific projects: (A) Spin relaxation phenomena in low-dimensional (un)conventional superconductors, and (B) Topological states engineered through proximity effect – superconductivity on the edge. |
Experimental investigation of deformation and electromagnetic properties of atomic nuclei
Experimentálne štúdium deformácie a elektromagnetických vlastností atómových jadier
| Duration: |
1.7.2021 - 30.6.2025 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Venhart Martin PhD. |
| Annotation: | Nuclear deformation may occur in a any atomic nucleus and it appears that it is the single most-important feature of nuclear structure. The most spectacular example of such organization in nuclei is the highly deformed Hoyle state in 12C through which carbon is produced in the Universe. The proposed project aims to elucidate the underlying nuclear structure that is responsible for appearance of such deformed configurations. The goal of the present project is to provide key new experimental data for various isotopes. Experiments will be performed at the University of Jyvaskyla (Finland) and at newly established Tandetron Laboratory in Piestany. In Jyvaskyla, isotopes 179,191,192Bi will be studied by means of isomer and in-beam gamma-ray spectroscopy. For the isomer spectroscopy, significantly modified setup will be employed at the focal plane of the recoil separator. In comparison with conventional methods, it will allow to increase the beam current by a factor of at least 10. Therefore, it has potential to establish new research areas, that might be interesting also for different groups. A multiwired proportional chamber will be developed and delivered to Jyvaskyla for this purpose. New spectrometer, based on liquid nitrogen cooled Si(Li) detector, will be constructed for the laboratory in Piestany. It will be used for the conversion-electron spectroscopy. This technique is very difficult and therefore is pursued by only very few groups in the world. It will be used for measurement of electromagnetic properties of ground-state and first-excited state of 59,61Cu isotopes. |
Physical properties of confined water in the environment of lipid bilayers and the influence of cryoprotectants
Fyzikálne vlastnosti uväznenej vody v prostredí lipidových dvojvrstiev a vplyv kryoprotektív
| Duration: |
1.1.2021 - 31.12.2024 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Šauša Ondrej CSc. |
| Annotation: | The project will deal with the study of the physical properties of water in the environment of lipid bilayers. The
phase behavior of water and the lipid bilayer in lipid dispersions formed by dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine, which
serve as a model of the cell membrane, will be investigated. The solidification and melting of water will be
investigated in various spatial constraints and with the addition of cryoprotectant, dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), with
a concentration of up to 10% vol. It will be investigated at what concentration the lipid bilayer will be disintegrated
and from which concentration the cryoprotective effect of DMSO will be significant, it means to suppress as much
as possible the formation of large ice crystals, which have fatal consequences for the disruption of cell
membranes. The originality of the project solution lies in the use of a free-volume view on processes at the
molecular level and in the use of positronium as a subnanometer probe for the study of local free volumes. |
Search for optimal structural and electronic properties of organic semiconductor thin films
Hľadanie optimálnych štruktúrnych a elektronických vlastností organických polovodičových vrstiev
| Duration: |
1.1.2022 - 31.12.2025 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Ing. Nádaždy Vojtech CSc. |
| Annotation: | The project proposal is focused on the studies of the electronic structure of newly emerging organic
semiconductors for organic electronics. Since the DOS determines the optoelectronic properties, its
understanding and design are essential for all applications. The electronic structure will be investigated using the
electrochemical methods developed by our research team. Changes in the microstructure will be controlled by the
choice of a solvent and annealing conditions. Susceptibility to degradation in the air will be investigated as well.
Our planned research will be based on the combined use of experimental, theoretical, and computational
approaches. We will use the density-functional theory (DFT), the related DF tight-binding (DFTB) method and the
time-dependent DFT as theoretical bases for our calculations of the electronic structure. Geometry relaxation
techniques and molecular dynamics will be used to predict and simulate molecular structure and microstructure of
organic semiconductor films. |
Hybrid Low Dimensional Layered Materials with new Functionalities
Hybridné nízkorozmerné vrstevnaté materiály s novými funkciami
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Jadrová štruktúra v okolí uzavretých protónových vrstiev
Quantum Simulations and Modelling of Interaction Networks
Kvantové simulácie a modelovanie interakčých sietí
| Duration: |
1.1.2022 - 31.12.2025 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Gendiar Andrej PhD. |
| Annotation: | The project aims to simulate quantum systems to understand the mechanisms of quantum entanglement concerning the interactions among particles (electrons/spins and photons) that are exposed to various external fields, typically magnetic ones. In specific cases, quantum correlations may suddenly amplify, which is reflected in macroscopic quantities. In theory, they behave non-analytically, while in the experiment, maxima (minima) or sudden jump changes are observed. Our task is to numerically simulate these processes and classify them by entanglement entropy. Simulations combine theory with experimental measurements. While in theory, we can solve only a small number of problems exactly, numerical simulations can cover a relatively large area of non-trivial problems. In this project, we will explore new quantum systems using state-of-the-art numerical methods, which we will formulate and implement. We will design conditions for devices under which it will be possible to perform experimental measurements. |
Fabrication, physics and correlated states in metallic 2D transition metal dichalcogenides
Metalické 2D dichalkogenidy prechodných kovov: príprava, štúdium vlastností a korelované stavy
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Metóda prípravy vzoriek pre IBA a XRF aplikácie
Molecular nanostructures on two-dimensional substrates
Molekulárne nanoštruktúry na dvojdimenzionálnych substrátoch
| Duration: |
1.4.2021 - 30.12.2023 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Mrkývková Naďa PhD. |
| Annotation: | Introducing small molecular semiconductors as additional building blocks into heterostructures of 2D materials
widens the applicatory potential of both systems – the organic semiconductors, as well as the 2D materials.
Organic molecules can form self-assembled crystalline nanostructures on 2D substrates, resulting in well-defined
interfaces that preserve the intrinsic properties of both constituents. These structures, combining the organic
molecules with 2D inorganic layers, form so-called hybrid van der Waals heterostructures (vdWHs), promising more
exciting applications such as flexible or bio-compatible electronics. This project is focused on the investigation of
the hybrid vdWHs with great potential in organic (opto)electronics. In more detail, we will take advantage of the
well-established molecular beam deposition technique for the growth of thin semiconducting layers consisting of
small organic molecules on the 2D inorganic layers. We will concentrate on the growth kinetics, molecular
orientation, crystallographic structure and parameters of the organic films on 2D substrates. Furthermore, the
organic films will be utilized as an essential ground for the development and study of perovskite-based
heterostructures (exploit in solar cells). |
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Nízko-dimenzionálne materiály- manipulácia, funkcionalizácia a bioaplikácie: LOW-D-MATTER
Novel nano / micro-structured metallic materials prepared by unconventional processing routes
Nové nano / mikroštruktúrované kovové materiály pripravené nekonvenčnými spôsobmi spracovania
Novel multi-principal element alloys – design, characterization and properties
Nové zliatiny s viacerými základnými prvkami – dizajn, charakterizácia a vlastnosti
Optimisation methods for quantum technologies
Optimalizačné metódy pre kvantové technológie
| Duration: |
1.7.2019 - 30.6.2023 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
Doc. Mgr. Ziman Mário PhD. |
| Annotation: | Future quantum technologies are aiming to enhance our computational power, secure our communication, but also increase precision of our detection devices (from detectors of gravitational waves to medicine diagnostics methods). The effort of researchers included in this project is focused on optimisation of theoretical proposals, also by taking into account more realistic models reflecting the situations outside the laboratories. Our project joins the second quantum revolution on the side of theory, while aiming at mid-term quantum technology applications. We will develop novel tools and methods for improving the performance of quantum measurement, simulation and optimization devices. In particular, we aim to investigate the mathematical structure of quantum information resources in order to utilize them in novel and efficient quantum metrology applications and quantum simulations. The planned analysis of higher-order quantum structures and related optimal information processing is uncovering new quantum resouces (e.g. quantum causality, memory) that has potential to boost qualitatively the performance of quantum computation and communication technologies. Our plans to optimize tensor network algorithms by using the structure of interactions (space-time) are definitely enlarging our chances for efficient quantum simulations of physically relevant quantum many-body systems. Project tasks are divided into three workpackages aiming to optimize quantum structures, develop optimal higher-order quantum information processing and optimisation of tensor network algorithms. |
Perovskite-based Films with Superior Passivation and Structure
Perovskitové vrstvy s vylepšenou pasiváciou a štruktúrou
| Duration: |
1.7.2022 - 30.6.2025 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Mrkývková Naďa PhD. |
| Annotation: | The growing global demand for electricity makes it essential to develop alternatives to fossil fuels. Not only to divert the upcoming energy supply shortage but also to reduce the effects of climate change. In this perspective, renewable energies from inexhaustible natural sources are the key to this industry's future, and solar energy, in particular, is one of the most promising. Solar cells (SCs) are one of the up-and-coming options for environmentally clean electricity production. Among several state-of-the-art generations, perovskite SCs, with the perovskite active light-harvesting material, are currently the most encouraging and promising hotspots of research. In order to make perovskite-based SCs available in the future, several issues need to be resolved, such as their lower efficiency compared to the most commonly used silicon. It was found that charge recombination plays a significant role in restricting the performance of potential perovskite-based applications, which usually happens in the presence of defect states. It is generally accepted that the perovskite defects are responsible for most of the issues that hinder the further commercial usage of perovskite-based devices. This indicates that the direction of further efficiency increase lies in the addressed defects passivation. Therefore, this project focuses on a detailed investigation of defect-induced nonradiative recombination processes in perovskite films and subsequent passivation of the defect states. |
Perspective electronic spin systems for future quantum technologies
Perspektívne elektrónové spinové systémy pre budúce kvantové technológie
Towards lithium based batteries with improved lifetime
Pokročilé lítiové batérie s dlhou životnosťou
| Duration: |
1.7.2021 - 30.6.2025 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
Dr. Rer. Nat. Šiffalovič Peter DrSc. |
| Annotation: | With the steadily increasing energy requirements of portable electronics and electromobility, conventional lithiumion batteries are facing new challenges. In the proposed project, we aim to stabilize the capacity and lifetime of
lithium-ion batteries employing ultra-thin interfacial layers prepared by means of atomic layer deposition (ALD). The
primary functions of interfacial layers are: i) preventing the dissolution of the cathode materials into electrolyte and
ii) stabilizing the cathode morphology during lithiation and de-lithiation. Although the positive effect of ALD
fabricated interfacial layers has already been demonstrated, systematic studies are still missing. The main
bottleneck of such studies is the identification of appropriate feedback analytical techniques that enable real-time
and in-operando insights into the charging/discharging mechanisms on the nanoscale. The conventional
electrochemical characterization methods can only provide hints on the ongoing mechanism during degradation
processes. Here we propose to utilize in-operando small-angle and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS, WAXS) to
track the morphology and phase changes that occur during the charging/discharging of lithium-ion batteries in realtime. The main focus of this project is on the application of real-time SAXS/WAXS studies under laboratory
conditions. In these circumstances, extensive, systematic studies of various ALD interfacial layers can be
performed. |
Towards Superior Perovskite-based Solar Cells via Optimized Passivation and Structure
Pokročilé perovskitové solárne články s optimalizovanou pasiváciou a štruktúrou
| Duration: |
1.7.2022 - 30.6.2026 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Mrkývková Naďa PhD. |
| Annotation: | Solar cells (SCs) are one of the highly promising options for environmentally clean electricity production. Their role in our future energy mix depends on further reduction in system costs, and device efficiency is of key importance. Hybrid organic-inorganic perovskites seem to be suitable candidates for next-generation photovoltaics, either in tandem with crystalline silicon solar cells or as a cheap/flexible thin-film alternative. Over the last few years, the power conversion efficiency of perovskite SCs has surpassed 25 %. However, its further increase is conditioned by the effective passivation of the detrimental defects at the perovskite interface and grain boundaries. This project is dedicated to understanding the role of defects in limiting photovoltaic performance and developing effective passivation routes to achieve further performance advances. Its innovation potential lies in increasing the efficiency of future SCs via targeting the defect-related nonradiative traps at the surfaces and interfaces and their efficient passivation. The project combines the different expertise and various experimental techniques of three partners intending to translate the acquired new scientific knowledge of defect passivation in hybrid perovskites into technological advances. |
Property control of metallic systems by tailoring of structures on atomic scales by internal and external factors
Riadenie vlastností kovových systémov modifikáciou štruktúry na atomárnej škále pomocou vnútorných a vonkajších faktorov
| Duration: |
1.1.2021 - 31.12.2024 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Ing. Švec Peter DrSc. |
| Annotation: | We will investigate phenomena and processes acting at atomic level and leading to modification of structure and
properties of metallic systems due to the action of internal and external factors. Objects of study are mainly
systems out of thermodynamic equilibrium, especially systems prepared by rapid quenching of the melt,
multicomponent complex metallic and quasicrystalline systems and nanostructured metal surfaces with catalytic
potential. Emphasis is on determination, understanding and generalization of phenomena inducing changes in
dimensions or even type of crystal lattice by proper selection of chem. composition, precursor prepar. techniques and thermodyn. processing - conventional equilibrium and nonequilibrium, e.g. in regions well above the onset of equilibr. transformation and annealing under influence of fields and their gradients. Studied phenomena and structure modifications will be jointly analyzed and interpreted by the most modern computational and experimental approaches down to atomic level. |
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Štatistická mechanika klasických coulombovských systémov
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Štúdium nízkomolekulových \pi-konjugovaných derivátov tiofénu vhodných ako organické polovodiče
Shape coexistence in odd-Au isotopes
Tvarová koexistencia v izotopoch zlata
| Duration: |
1.1.2022 - 31.12.2026 |
| Program: |
|
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Venhart Martin PhD. |
| Annotation: | Goal of the project is further development of the the TATRA spectrometer. It will be used for studies of shape coexistence in odd-mass Au isotopes. Method of simultaneous gamma-ray and conversion-electron spectroscopy. Namely, the 185Au isotope will be studied. Experiment has already been approved by CERN Council. |
Impact of metal deposited nanoparticles and the nanoparticle doped flux on solder joints between lead-free solders and metal substrates
Vplyv kovových nanočastíc a taviva dopovaného nanočasticami na spájkované spoje medzi bezolovnatými spájkami a kovovými substrátmi
Effect of incorporation of MXenes in the perovskite solar cells
Vplyv zabudovania MXénov do perovskitových solárnych článkov Effect of incorporation of MXenes in the perovskite solar cells
| Duration: |
1.1.2021 - 31.12.2023 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Majková Eva DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) revealed impressive progress in power conversion efficiency (PCE) from 9 % up to
25% during the last 10 years. PSCs are multilayers, where the active perovskite layer is placed between the
layers for selective charge transport to electrodes. Structure, morphology and transport properties of the layers
and interfaces determine the performance of PSCs. Application of 2D nanomaterials in PSCs offer a possibility to
modify the performance. Better energy levels alignment of layers, the improved crystalline structure of the
perovskites and increased stability of the device are possible benefits. This project is focused on complex studies
of the effect of incorporation of 2D MXenes in the electron transport layer and in the perovskite layer. PSCs with
different types of perovskites will be studied. This research will be completed by a detailed analysis of the
MXenes/ perovskite interaction. For this aim, we will develop and analyze a bilayer MXenes monolayer/
perovskite. |
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Výskum optických a morfologických vlastností nerovných a poréznych povrchov p-typu kryštalického kremíka s cieľom jednoznačne dokázať za akých podmienok pozorujeme jav kvantového uväznenia v kremíkových nanokryštáloch
Research of selected properties of sustainable insulating materials with the potential for use in wooden buildings
Výskum vybraných vlastností trvalo udržateľných izolačných materiálov s potenciálom využitia v drevostavbách
| Duration: |
1.1.2021 - 31.12.2023 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Ing. Vretenár Viliam PhD. |
| Annotation: | Currently, the issue of reducing energy consumption in all phases of the life cycle of buildings is coming to the fore more intensively. The sustainability and energy efficiency of buildings is assessed not only on the basis of thermal insulation properties, but also on the basis of the demand for primary energy, the reduction of CO2 emissions and the environmental properties of the materials used. In this context, the use of recyclable and nature-friendly materials such as e.g. wood biocomposites, technical textiles, sheep's wool, etc. Their use reduces the environmental burden. When designing buildings, not only the thermophysical properties of materials are important, but also fire and acoustic properties. The results of the project solution can be a guide for production practice in the search for a suitable combination of insulating materials. Another result will be a database of thermal insulation, acoustic and fireproof properties of materials created in such a way that the data are comparable with each other (measurement of the same properties using the same methods). |
High-performance curved X-ray optics prepared by advanced nanomachining technology
Vysokovýkonná zakrivená röntgenová optika pripravená pokročilou technológiou nanoobrábania
| Duration: |
1.1.2021 - 31.12.2023 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Ing. Jergel Matej DrSc. |
| Annotation: | The project is focused on the research and development of new types of X-ray optics with highly accurate curved
active surfaces. The surfaces will be prepared by an innovative nanomachining technology. We will investigate
the application of nanomachining technology to a special case of X-ray optics with curved surfaces, which is a
parabolic refractive lens operating in the transmission geometry. The second special case we will focus on will be
thin crystal monochromators with different thicknesses in a range of 20-2000 micrometers. Such elements can be
used for example as beam splitters in modern X-ray free-electron lasers (XFEL), bent crystals in Johansson
monochromators for spectroscopic applications, or they can also be used in particle accelerators for beam
steering. The developed elements of curved X-ray optics will be tested in real X-ray metrology and X-ray imaging
experiments using laboratory or synchrotron X-ray sources and highly sensitive directly converting X-ray
detectors Pilatus and Medipix. |
Application of biocompatible 2D nanomaterials and nanoparticles as a protection against biodeterioration of various types of surfaces.
Využitie biokompatibilných 2D nanomateriálov a nanočastíc ako ochrana pred biodeterioráciou rôznych druhov povrchov.
| Duration: |
1.1.2022 - 31.12.2024 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Hofbauerová Monika PhD. |
| Annotation: | The aim of the research is to gain new knowledges of 2D nanomaterials as antifungal tools from the perspective of advanced application for protection against biodeterioration of various surfaces and materials. We focus on monitoring antifungal activity of modern 2D nanomaterials and nanoparticles, which are MXenes (Ti3C2) and MoOx plasmonic nanoparticles (stoichiometric/non-stoichiometric molybdenum oxide) in combination with monoterpenoid phenolic compounds (thymol, carvacrol) and terpene alcohol (linalool), all from the Lamiaceae family, occurring naturally in nature. With combination of these biocompatible nanomaterials and terpenoid compounds we would like to achieve partial or complete suppression of microbiological damage to natural and modern building materials, such as wood, stone, ceramics with respect to ecology. |
Nanomedical approach to fight pancreatic cancer via targeting tumor- associated carbonic anhydrase IX
Využitie nanomedicíny v boji proti rakovine pankreasu prostredníctvom zacielenia nádorovo-asociovanej karbonickej anhydrázy IX.
| Duration: |
1.7.2021 - 30.6.2025 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Annušová Adriana PhD. |
| Annotation: | Pancreatic cancer is a lethal disease with a rising incidence and mortality and it is the fourth leading cause of
cancer-related deaths in Europe. The median survival time of pancreatic cancer is 4-6 months after diagnosis, the
lowest survival rate of all cancers. Only 20% of diagnosed cases are operable. Photothermal therapy (PTT) has the
potential to become a new frontrunner in the fight against pancreatic cancer. This cutting-edge biomedical
application relies on the rapid heating of the plasmonic nanoparticles induced by laser light absorption, followed by
an increase in the ambient temperature around the nanoparticles. The effect of the localized surface plasmon
resonance (LSPR) can be observed only in a special class of nanoparticles. Photothermal therapy results in
selective hyperthermia and irreversible damage of the tumor while avoiding damage to healthy tissue.
However, the delivery efficiency of plasmonic nanoparticles is often insufficient. It can be increased by a dedicated functionalization of the plasmonic nanoparticles with ligands (antibodies) that selectively recognize the cancer cells.
One of the main aims of the proposed project is to increase the delivery efficiency of the plasmonic nanoparticles
for PTT by functionalization with antibodies that selectively recognize the tumor in the body. A promising target for
functionalized nanoparticles is carbonic anhydrase IX, a hypoxia biomarker associated with an aggressive
phenotype. CA IX is expressed in many types of tumors, while being absent from adjacent healthy tissue, making it
an ideal highly specific candidate for anti-cancer therapy target. CAIX is abundantly expressed on the surface of
pancreatic cancer cells where it correlates with a poor patient outcome. Targeting pancreatic cancer via
nanomaterials-based approach combined with anti-CAIX antibody ensures highly selective application of PTT with
potential benefits in the clinical environment. |
An utilization of the SU(3) symmetry and the analyticity for a new theoretical evaluation of the g-2 anomaly, the prediction of the behavior of hyperon electromagnetic form factors and the evaluation of selected hadronic decays
Využitie SU(3) symetrie a analytičnosti na nové teoretické vyhodnotenie g-2 anomálie, predpovedanie správania sa hyperónových elektromagnetických formfaktorov a vyhodnotenie vybraných rozpadov hadrónov
| Duration: |
1.1.2021 - 31.12.2024 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Bartoš Erik PhD. |
| Annotation: | The project aims to achieve a better evaluation overall the muon g-2 anomaly within the Standard Model compared to recent results of other authors obtained by the classical approach, by using a new approach to evaluate leading-order hadronic contribution to the muon anomaly via the five-flavor hadronic contribution \Delta\alpha_{had}^{(5)} (t) to the running coupling constant QED \alpha(t) in the spacelike region.
In connection with the planned experimental measurements of the electromagnetic Sigma-Lambda hyperon transition form factors in the unphysical region in Darmstadt to predict its behavior using the analyticity and the SU(3) symmetry. We want to extend the developed methodology for the prediction of EM form factors of the Lambda hyperon.
The next issue is to investigate the consequences of the analyticity of the running coupling constant QED \alpha(s) on its behavior in the timelike region. Verify the possibilities of the covariant quark model for the description of selected hadron decays. |
Changes of microstructure and physical properties of crosslinked polymers in bulk and under confined conditions of macro- and mesopores
Zmeny mikroštruktúry a fyzikálnych vlastností zosieťovaných polymérov v objeme a v uväznených podmienkach makro- a mezopórov
| Duration: |
1.7.2022 - 30.6.2026 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Šauša Ondrej CSc. |
| Annotation: | The presented project will deal with the free-volume properties of polymer networks cured by new processes and their consequences on some physical properties, especially thermal properties around the glass transition and material properties. Polymers that are used in many applications based on dimethacrylates and epoxides will be investigated. They will be cured by a common and controlled polymerization as well as by the frontal polymerization. From the lifetime of the external positronium probe, the sizes of the inter-molecular free volumes will be determined and the changes in local free volumes during the curing processes as well as their dependences on the external parameters (temperature) will be examinated. Differences in the microstructure of polymers prepared in different ways will be determined, both in bulk and in the confined conditions of macro- and mesopores. Processes leading to different microstructural inhomogeneities of polymers will be investigated as a consequence of both the different crosslinking mechanisms of materials studied and the external conditions. The obtained free-volume characteristics will be compared with the results of other characterization techniques (FTIR, NIR, DSC, SEM, photo-rheometry, dielectric spectroscopy). The physical bonds will be studied which influence the properties of the polymer network in both bulk and confined states. |
The total number of projects: 37
