New projects & Milestones
The goal of the Nanostructured Functional Materials or NANOSFUN group is to develop new routes to molecular nanostructures with properties inspired by nature and smart responses to external stimuli. During 2020, the group continued working on novel catechol-based coatings and wet adhesives that reproduce the sticking power of marine mussels, as well as the development of nanoencapsulation strategies for photoactive species with potential photophysical and chemical applications. We also carry out a strong research line in photo- and thermochromism. Other research lines are devoted to the development of coordination polymers for theranostic applications and to the synthesis of 2D coordination flakes for electronic applications.
In 2020, we have developed and patented a novel technology based on chromogenic materials that respond to both temperature and near-infrared irradiation. Two valorisation projects have been granted from the Generalitat de Catalunya to increase the TRL of the technology in printable security inks and durable smart windows.
These valorisation projects are:
- NIRGLASS: New generation of chromogenic materials for smart glasses. Project AGAUR, INNOV 00070; 01/09/2020-28/02/2022; 84.000 €
- NANOINK: Photoactive multiresponsive hybrid nanoparticles as printable anticounterfeiting markers. Project AGAUR, LLAV00073; 01/05/2020-31/01/2021; 20.000 €
Moreover, another technology for tissues regeneration has been granted with another valorisation project.
- TIRECAT: Catechol-Based Free-Standing Films for Tissue Regeneration. Project AGAUR, LLAV00074; 01/05/2020-31/01/2021; 20.000 €