RARE EARTH COMPOUNDS
We specialize in the design, production, and characterization of materials containing rare earth elements, among other advanced materials.
Our Expertise: Our primary scientific focus lies in the design, synthesis, and physicochemical characterization of nanoparticles based on inorganic matrices doped with lanthanide ions. Additionally, we prepare and characterize macromolecules of lanthanide ion complexes and systems exhibiting chemi- and electroluminescence phenomena.
SYNTHESIS:
We excel in synthesizing down-converting/down-shifting and up-converting nanoparticles, including those activated under radiation from the second (1000-1350 nm) and third biological windows (1550-1870 nm). We also design nanoparticles that exhibit dual-mode emission under UV (200-450 nm) and NIR radiation (800-1000 nm), useful in areas such as anti-counterfeiting systems. Our expertise extends to nanoparticle surface modification with organic molecules to enhance biocompatibility, the preparation and stabilization of luminescent nanocolloids, and the synthesis of bifunctional luminescent-plasmonic and luminescent-magnetic nanoparticles.
Our well-equipped laboratory supports various synthesis methods, including:
- Hydrothermal and solvothermal processes (high-pressure and high-temperature autoclaves)
- Precipitation in high-boiling solvents (Schlenk line)
- Sol-gel Pechini method (high-temperature and tube furnaces)
- Co-precipitation
- Micro-emulsion techniques
SPECTROSCOPY AND STRUCTURE:
Our Department of Rare Earths features a laboratory outfitted with advanced laser systems and other devices for spectroscopic/optical measurements. We can characterize materials through absorption, excitation, and emission spectra (200-1700 nm), luminescence lifetimes, and emission quantum yields. Our facilities also support high-pressure and temperature-dependent luminescence studies, and optical detection of phase transitions under pressure, with measurements possible at both room temperature and liquid nitrogen temperatures.
We also provide structural characterization of synthesized materials using:
- X-ray diffraction
- IR absorption spectra
- DLS
- Zeta potential techniques
- SEM and TEM imaging
APPLICATIONS:
We produce nanoparticles applicable in:
- Biomedicine
- Bioimaging
- Temperature and pressure sensing
Additional applications include:
- Anti-counterfeit markers based on magnetic/luminescent cellulose microfibers, paper, and ink formation
- Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) production
- Plasmonic surface enhancement
- Solar cells
Recently, we have been involved in the development of luminescently labeled nano- and microplastics for use in toxicity studies.
Our comprehensive capabilities in material synthesis and characterization enable us to provide advanced solutions across various scientific and industrial fields.