Research poles

Non-Linear Optics and Photonics

In this pole, research is carried out in nonlinear optics (NLO), quantum NLO, plasmonics, and photonics, applied to multiscale structured matter (i.e. molecules, molecular films, surfaces, bio-inspired structures, nanomaterials, metamaterials, and crystals).

Optical responses and their coupling to vibrational and electronic excitations are predicted, from theoretical models using numerical simulations, and measured with dedicated experimental setups, with the goal to better understand light-matter interactions in natural or in artificial systems, and to optimize their effects in view of technological applications. Read more...

High Performance Computing (HPC) Multiscale Modelling

This pole aims at sharing computational techniques, skills and tools in order to develop new materials and predict their final properties.

It also aims at improving the modelling techniques and computer codes to account for most of the chemistry and physics of structured matter.

The pole uses the university resources such as the Technological Platform of Intensive Calculation, where high performance simulations and modelling are realized. High performance computing combines the computing power of a large number of processors, memory and storage devices in HPC clusters to solve problems that are too large for a single computer. Read more...

Functional Structured Materials

The first core of expertise of this research pole is divided in several interconnected areas: the development of 3D porous architectures including hierarchical organizations, Metal Organic Framework (MOF) or MOF-like systems, biologic, organic/inorganic hybrids, organic and organometallic catalysts, surfaces, and other materials based on carbon, boron, silicon, aluminum, lithium, and nanocomposites.

The second core of expertise is the functionalization of nanostructures such as carbon nanotubes, fullerenes (C₆₀), pillar-arenes, silsesquioxanes (POSS), crystalline porous organic salts, and surfaces. These materials and their applications cover various hot topics in chemistry and physics including: Li-batteries and electrolytes, CO₂ conversion, biomass conversion, photosynthesis, (photo)catalysis, inhibition of viral and/or bacterial pathogens, biomaterials, sensors, heterogeneous and homogenous catalysis, small molecules activation, supramolecular chemistry.

The characterization of these materials is performed using state of the art analytical facilities, such as NMR (both solid and liquid), X-ray diffraction analysis, high resolution mass spectrometry, chromatographic methods, SEM/TEM microscopy, nitrogen physisorption, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, nuclear reactions and nano-indentation, elemental analysis, TGA/DSC analysis, stopped-flow spectroscopy. Read more...

Surfaces, Interfaces and Carbon Nanostructures

This pole is active in the synthesis, characterization and modelling of novel materials, with particular attention to interfaces between two distinct phases and to low-dimensional structures including carbon nanostructures (graphene, nanotubes). A large choice of deposition and characterization methods is available within the SIAM and MORPHIM technology platforms. Strong theoretical support is provided to understand 2D & 3D materials synthesis and growth, and to interpret experimental data. Read more...