Project
Institute of Construction and Architecture
International Projects
INHAAR - International network for harmonization of atmospheric aerosol retrievals from ground based photometers
Charakterizácia atmosférického aerosólu z pozemnej rádiometrie
| Duration: | 1. 10. 2022 - 31. 10. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | CA21119 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Kocifaj Miroslav DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Aerosols are particles floating in the Earth’s atmosphere linked with the largest uncertainty on estimates and interpretations of the Earth’s changing energy budget. Measurement principles differ depending on the desired derived aerosol optical parameter and on the measurement platform (surface or space). The common aerosol columnar properties’ retrieval techniques, consists of direct measurement of a bright source of radiation (sun, star, moon, sky) with a multi-wavelength photometers. Several global photometric aerosol networks exist. However, there are several instrumental, algorithm and hardware based differences on their related aerosol products and a global standardization is needed. In addition, in order to improve and optimize sun- and moon- photometric aerosol measurements, a network of aerosol scientists and operators, aerosol measurement users and software, hardware developers is needed. The objective of “ΗΑRΜΟΝΙΑ” Action is to establish a network involving institutions, instrument developers, scientific and commercial end users, in order to improve and homogenize aerosol retrievals using mainly solar and sky but also lunar and star photometers from different networks. It aims bridging user needs and the science and technology expertise residing in academia and industry, through: - Increasing the interactions and knowledge exchanges between several atmospheric aerosol network measurement scientists and users - Standardizing and improving of existing aerosol products and tools, towards a “harmony” in the aerosol photometry - Stimulating the communication between operational agencies and academia, with the aim to increase the applicability of aerosol products. - Encouraging and organizing the dialogue between researchers and instrument manufacturers, towards innovation actions on current and future photometric-aerosol instrumentation. |
| Project web page: | https://harmonia-cost.eu/ |
M-ERA.NET - Smart, Efficient and Lightweight Facade for low-energy buildings
Inteligentná, efektívna a ľahká fasáda pre nízkoenergetické budovy
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2026 - 30. 6. 2029 |
| Program: | Horizont Európa |
| Project leader: | doc. Ing. Čekon Miroslav PhD. |
| Annotation: | Buildings account for a major share of energy use, and current façade systems cannot fully exploit renewable energy or provide dynamic thermal performance. The project addresses the need for highly efficient, adaptive envelope solutions suitable for diverse climates and modernization of existing buildings. The objective is to develop and validate a multifunctional façade integrating active thermal insulation, PV-T energy harvesting, and latent heat storage, forming a modular prefabricated unit. Potential applications include new and renovated buildings requiring improved energy efficiency and on-site renewable integration. The proposed solution solves several important challenges of the housing market such as demand for new cheap houses, attempting the autonomous building standard and increasing energy performance. The approach supports sustainable construction, accelerates market uptake of advanced façade technologies, and strengthens the competitiveness of involved company. |
| Project web page: | https://www.m-era.net/ |
BSS - The birth of solar systems (PLANETS)
Prachové častice v slnečnej sústave
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2023 - 30. 9. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | CA22133 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Kocifaj Miroslav DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Solar systems emerge from the dust, gas, and ice present in discs encircling newly-born stars. State-of-the-art images from current telescopes have revealed complex substructure (rings and gaps) in dust and gas that may be caused by forming planets. However, these observations have raised many questions regarding when and how planets form; for example, we see rings in discs too young to birth planets, and we measure disc masses too low to form a Solar System analogue. Further, the demographics provided by observations of extra-solar planetary systems have revealed huge diversity and hint that our Solar System may be unique. It is clear that our picture of the birth of Solar Systems remains incomplete despite these great advances in observations. This Action will create a multi-disciplinary network covering three cornerstones: experiments, models, and observations. Experimental data is needed to accurately prescribe physics in models of disc evolution and planet formation, and to correctly interpret observations of dust and gas emission. Models are a “virtual laboratory” within which the impact of physics can be explored, and from which observational diagnostics can be created. Finally, observations provide us with the benchmarks needed to confirm or refute our picture of Solar System birth. To build a holistic picture of how Solar Systems form can only be achieved with an interdisciplinary and pan-European network. This Action will provide the structure and funding needed to develop the research framework, provide training to the next generation, and to disseminate the findings to key stakeholders. |
| Project web page: | https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA22133 |
National Projects
Bio-PCM Thermal Energy Storage: Optimized Truncated-Cone Tank with Nature-Inspired Fins
Bio-PCM systém akumulácie tepelnej energie: Optimalizovaná zásobníková nádrž v tvare zrezaného kužeľa s rebrami inšpirovanými prírodou
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2026 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APP0737 |
| Program: | DoktoGrant |
| Project leader: | Ing. Nasir Alaa |
| Annotation: | The proposed project focuses on advancing seasonal thermal energy storage (STES) systems for energy self- sufficient buildings through the development of a novel storage tank filled with bio-based phase change materials (Bio -PCM), particularly sugar alcohols such as erythritol. Bio-PCMs provide high latent heat capacity and environmental compatibility, making them a sustainable alternative to conventional storage materials, but their low thermal conductivity limits efficiency. To address this challenge, the research introduces nature-inspired fin geometries designed to enhance heat transfer, accelerate charging and discharging, and improve long-term energy retention. The study will integrate three-dimensional numerical simulations with laboratory-scale experiments on a truncated- cone prototype to validate performance. The expected outcomes include improved reliability and efficiency of STES systems, seamless integration with solar energy infrastructure, and reduced dependence on external energy sources. Ultimately, this research aims to support the transition towards energy-efficient, low-carbon buildings and establish new design guidelines for sustainable TES technologies. |
| Project web page: | https://www.doktogrant.sav.sk/FundedProjects/2025 |
Hydration processes and microstructure formation of the new cement composites and their use in the development of special concretes
Hydratačný proces a tvorba mikroštruktúry nových kompozitných cementov a ich použitie na vývoj špeciálnych betónov
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA -2/0080/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Prof. Dr. Ing. Palou Martin-Tchingnabé |
| Annotation: | The European Committee for Standardization CEN-51 expanded the number of cement types from 27 to 39. Two newly developed types of cement, (1) - Portland composite cement CEM II/C-M and (2) composite cement - CEM VI, covered by STN EN 197-5, are not yet recognized and fully accepted by the standard STN 206/NA for concrete. These composite cements with a lower clinker factor (65-35%) and a higher degree of admixture combinations are of considerable CO2 reduction potential in cement and concrete industries. The suitability of these new types of cement and their intended use for construction purposes was experimentally evaluated by test programs for mortars. Until now, detailed studies on the suitability of these binders for the development of concrete, i.e., for what types of concrete and for what exposure classes related to environmental actions, have not been carried out and scientifically verified. The project fulfills the gap between STN EN 197-5 for mortar and STN 206/NA for concrete by using material chemistry to map the potential application of the new composites cement in developing sealing cement grout for geothermal wells, Self-Compacting and Heavyweight Concrete. |
Complexity on latent heat storage materials and systems in applications for sustainable and green construction
Komplexnosť v aplikáciách latentných tepelnoakumulačných materiálov a systémov pre udržateľnú a ekologickú výstavbu
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0145/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | doc. Ing. Čekon Miroslav PhD. |
| Annotation: | Driven by adverse effects of climate change, progressive building envelope solutions are needed for storing thermal energy in periods of abundance and releasing it when and where needed, such as responsive envelope elements. By virtue of their large latent heat of fusion, phase change materials (PCMs) are promising materials to address this need. However, many challenges remain concerning their real implementation, cost and sustainability. Modern building envelope systems together with the integration of advanced materials that can passively operate with thermal energy obtained from its environment, represent current direction of innovative research. Therefore, this research aims to manufacture and integrate green and sustainable composite materials and systems in combination with PCMs, focusing on bio-based PCMs from renewable and eco-based sources. Waste products such as food wastes, by-products from agro-based food industries, genetically modified oils and many others are potentials for present research. |
LIGHT-POLLUTION- - Comprehensive model of light pollution propagation into the ambient environment
Komplexný model šírenia svetelného znečistenia do okolitého prostredia
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0020 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Kocifaj Miroslav DrSc. |
| Annotation: | The proliferation of outdoor artificial light at night is a global challenge that relates strongly to cities. The brightening of the night sky due to the phenomenon of skyglow touches on many social concerns from urban ecology to human health, energy security, and sustainability and climate change. Knowledge of the hemispherical night sky brightness (NSB) produced by ongoing expansion of outdoor lighting systems is a necessary step for characterizing the nighttime environment and monitoring the evolution of night sky quality. We intend to develop a comprehensive NSB model applicable for any site worldwide, while respecting the atmospheric conditions prevailing at the respective locality. By achieving an excellent match between theory and experiment, the model will (1) accurately assess the environmental impact of new outdoor lighting installations; (2) investigate the relationship between light pollution and other forms of environmental pollution; (3) elucidate how the nature of anthropogenic particles in the atmosphere relates to the formation of skyglow over cities; (4) predict how much light at night reaches the ground in and near cities; and (5) determine the value of specific outdoor lighting modernization efforts in reducing light pollution. Our strategy to develop a comprehensive model is to derive governing equations in analytic forms in order to provide a deep physical insight to the problem solved, interpret of the role of each parameter, discover dependencies otherwise hidden or unknown, and construct theoretically well-founded approximations. We will solve the vector radiative transfer equation in the Earth’s atmosphere, while determining Stokes parameters for arbitrary cloud coverage or light emissions from artificial sources. Through a combination of radiative transfer modeling and experimental validation, we deliver novel NSB mitigation strategies. |
LIPRO - Quantifying Light Propagation Parameters for Modern ArtificialLighting: Ground Reflection, Cloud Impact and Dynamic Sources
Kvantifikácia parametrov šírenia svetla pre moderné umeléosvetlenie: Povrchový odraz, vplyv oblakov a dynamické zdroje
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2025 - 31. 8. 2029 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-24-0627 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Dr. Wallner Stefan MSc. |
| Annotation: | Light pollution is a rapidly growing environmental challenge, with artificial night lighting increasing by 2.2% annually and 6% in European areas. This innovative research project addresses critical gaps in understanding light pollution through three work packages that combine cutting-edge measurement techniques with advanced theoretical modeling. The research investigates three key areas of light dynamics: ground reflection under LED lighting, cloud impacts on light propagation, and vehicle lighting contributions. Using drone-based measurements, systematic cloud condition analyses, and novel headlight impact assessments, the project will develop comprehensive models that challenge existing simplified understanding of light pollution. Led by Dr. Stefan Wallner at the Slovak Academy of Sciences, the interdisciplinary team will explore unprecedented aspects of light propagation. By creating three-dimensional light mapping, analyzing over 500 cloud scenarios, and developing new algorithms for tracking light sources, the research promises significant advances in environmental and atmospheric science. Expected outcomes include enhanced modeling tools, new measurement protocols, public datasets, and at least twelve peer-reviewed publications. The project aims to support more sustainable urban lighting practices by providing critical insights into how artificial light interacts with urban and natural environments. This research represents a crucial step in understanding and mitigating the complex phenomenon of light pollution, offering practical solutions for urban planners, ecologists, and environmental scientists. |
Multiphysical effects in micro/nano structural elements in MEMS/NEMS devices
Multifyzikálne efekty v mikro/nano-konštrukčných prvkoch MEMS/NEMS zariadení
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0084/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Sátor Ladislav PhD. |
| Annotation: | The global aim of this project is to give a unified theoretical and numerical treatment of the micro/nano plate and/or beam bending in interactions with various physical fields. Besides the classical theory of plates/beams (CLT), we shall consider also the first and third order shear deformation theories (FSDT and TSDT). Moreover, we allow the materials of the plates to be functionally graded (FGM) both in transversal and in-plane directions, hence the governing equations are partial differential equations with variable coefficients. We intend to develop advanced numerical techniques, like the Moving Finite Element Method (MFEM) to solve the rather complex boundary value problems. The numerical simulation of the effects of functional dependence of material coefficients in multifield coupling and analyse the size-dependent effects can lead to deeper understanding of physical processes in response of micro/nano structural plate/beamlike elements. |
OCCVVP - Optical characterization of particles in exteriors and interiors
Optická charakterizácia častíc vo vonkajšom a vnútornom prostredí
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0009/24 Tlačový |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Kocifaj Miroslav DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Small size particles can easily penetrate different environments and have a detrimental effect on human health on both the interior and exterior. In addition to their negative impacts on the health of the population, micrometer-sized particles determine the distribution of diffuse daylight as well as its availability indoors. Environmental turbidity is a critical factor for predicting the amount of solar energy (photovoltaic, PV). Currently, most models assume that particles are spherical in shape, and this limitation is expected to have minimal impact on the accuracy of model predictions. However, such models suffer from a systematic bias, as the particles in urban environments are neither spherical nor spheroidal, and their varying shapes contribute to amplitude fluctuations of direct and diffuse radiation components. The goal of the project is to determine the effect of particle shape on detected radiation and to develop optical methods for characterizing particles in their natural environment. |
Optimized Integration of Phase Change Materials in Residential Building Walls for Energy Efficiency in Slovakia and the European Union
Optimalizovaná integrácia materiálov s fázovou zmenou do obvodových stien obytných budov na zvýšenie energetickej efektívnosti v Slovenskej republike a Európskej únii
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2026 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APP0704 |
| Program: | DoktoGrant |
| Project leader: | M. Tech. Chaturvedi Shashikant |
| Annotation: | The aim of this project is to develop an optimized system for integrating Phase Change Materials (PCMs) into residential building walls to enhance energy efficiency in the Slovak Republic and the European Union (EU). It combines laboratory testing, simulations, and building monitoring to identify suitable PCM types, 3D-printed encapsulations, and placement strategies tailored to local climates. A novel aspect is the use of additive manufacturing to enable cost-effective, scalable thermal storage. The project will quantify energy savings across seasons, validate models with empirical data, and assess economic feasibility. Outcomes will include technical guidelines to support sustainable building and retrofitting, directly contributing to EU Green Deal targets and national decarbonization goals. |
| Project web page: | https://www.doktogrant.sav.sk/FundedProjects/2025 |
Understanding and improvement of the hydration reactions of the low-carbon cements for development of low-carbon concrete including carbon capture through carbonation
Pochopenie a zlepšenie hydratačných reakcií nízkouhlíkových cementov pre vývoj nízkouhlíkového betónu vrátane zachytávania uhlíka karbonatáciou
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0383 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Prof. Dr. Ing. Palou Martin-Tchingnabé |
| Annotation: | Deepening the knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms and kinetics of hydration reactions of cement composites with a low to very low content of Portland clinker to develop Low-Carbon Concrete is currently the main focus of scientific research on inorganic composite binders worldwide. The construction sector has been identified as the most significant sector responsible for 40% of total anthropogenic CO2. To mitigate the detrimental effect of cement and concrete production on the environment and energy consumption, locally available supplemental cementitious materials (SCMs) are combined with locally produced cement. The chemical composition of these materials is closely linked to their source, causing the cement composition to vary from one locality to another. The hydration reaction of cement, which governs the properties of concrete, is a complex process, even more so in the system containing SCMs. Lowering the clinker content in cement to achieve low-carbon cement decreases the initial hydration heat, slows the rate of strength development, and makes the concrete belong to a low-strength class. Primary hydration of cement phases, alkali-activated/pozzolanic reactions, carbonation, superplasticizers, and the water-binder ratio are the main factors to consider in developing low-carbon cement, the main ingredient for making low-carbon concrete. Developing low-carbon concrete from low-carbon cement with the incorporation of recycled concrete aggregates is the main scientific and technological challenge to achieve the objectives of this project. Combining scientific knowledge of hydration process with the development of low-carbon cement will enable the development of low-carbon concrete with similar properties to ordinary concrete. Furthermore, the project plans to develop fiber-reinforced load-bearing concrete from low-carbon concrete. The possibility of sequestering CO2 in the concrete structure by carbonation in the CO2 chamber will be explored. |
Surface effects in multi-functional nanomaterials
Povrchové efekty v multi funkcionálnych nanomateriáloch
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2026 - 31. 12. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA- 2/0007/26 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | prof. Ing. Sládek Ján DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Reduction of the size of structural elements to the order of its material microstructure yields arising exceptional properties due to the engagement of physical processes not occurring at macroscopic structures. In contrast to macro-sized structures, the surface effect should be considered due to large ratio of surfaces to volume in nano-sized structures. The flexoelectric and flexomagnetic effects are electromechanical or magnetomechanical coupling phenomena widely existing in many advanced materials with large strain gradients (nano-sized structures), and may significantly affect the multiple physics coupling behaviors of them. The main objective of this project is to fully understand the mechanisms for multiple physics field coupling in smart materials involving the surface effects in flexoelectric and flexomagnetic materials, and provide general ideas for the optimal design of advanced composite materials. |
Self-Healing Concrete for Enhanced Carbon Capture and Storage
Samoregeneračný betón pre efektívnejšie zachytávanie a ukladanie oxidu uhličitého
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2026 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APD0222 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | M. Tech. Kalauni Kishor Ph.D. |
| Annotation: | This research proposes the development of a novel multifunctional concrete composite that combines the CO2 adsorption capabilities of ZIF-8 with the self-healing properties of bio-mineralizing bacteria. The goal is to enhance both the environmental performance and durability of concrete by accelerating natural carbonation and increasing its capacity for carbon sequestration. ZIF-8 will be embedded within the concrete matrix to act as a localized CO2 reservoir, capturing atmospheric or point-source CO2 and concentrating it near microcracks or porous zones. Simultaneously, the incorporated bacteria will precipitate calcium carbonate upon exposure to moisture and CO2, facilitating self-healing and further CO₂ mineralization. This synergistic system leverages both physical adsorption and microbial mineralization to increase the rate, extent, and permanence of carbon storage in concrete. The project will investigate the interactions between ZIF-8 and bacterial viability, optimize material formulations, and evaluate performance through carbonation depth analysis, mechanical testing, and microstructural characterization. By conducting controlled experiments under varying environmental conditions, researcher will measure the differences in CO2 uptake between conventional concrete and that enhanced with self-healing agents. This comparative analysis will provide critical data on the performance and potential of biogenic enhancement strategies. In addition to quantifying CO2 sequestration, the project also focuses on optimizing the carbonation process. This involves testing different concentrations and combinations of self-healing agents, and ZIF-8 to determine the most efficient formulation for long-term CO2 absorption. By evaluating the reduction in net carbon emissions associated with the use of self-healing agent and ZIF-8, the project will help determine its viability as a sustainable building material. The anticipated outcome is an environmentally beneficial solution that not only improves the durability of concrete but also actively contributes to atmospheric CO2 reduction. These findings contribute valuable knowledge to the field of sustainable construction materials and provide practical guidance for future industry applications. |
| Project web page: | https://postdokgrant.sav.sk/ |
Projects total: 14