Project Leader: Dr. Piotr Kamedulski
The aim of the project addresses one of the most important technological challenges of the 21st century—energy transformation—with particular emphasis on the efficient storage of electricity derived from renewable sources. A key aspect of this transformation is the development of innovative technologies for the production of green hydrogen and modern energy storage systems, which require the application of advanced and highly efficient electrode materials. The main goal of the project is the innovative synthesis of nanomaterials with controlled structural parameters, known as 3D graphene-based materials (Patent 241359 – 3D graphene roses), primarily for use in electrolyzers, metal–air batteries, flow batteries, DSSC cells, OLED diodes, and supercapacitors. Their unique properties—such as large specific surface area, electrical conductivity, and biocompatibility—make them attractive for applications in theoretical calculations, electrochemistry, optoelectronics, biomedicine, immunology, and microbiology. A significant innovation will be the introduction of two or three elements simultaneously into the carbon structure without substantial modification of its morphology. Additionally, advanced catalysts and dopants will be applied to further improve material performance.
Another crucial aspect of the project involves interdisciplinary microbiological and immunological research on the developed nanomaterials. The work will focus on characterizing modern nanostructures with antimicrobial properties, intended for applications in the food and cosmetic industries. The research team will conduct comprehensive bactericidal activity tests, including against pathogens resistant to conventional agents, as well as cytotoxicity studies and analyses of interactions with immune system cells. An important element will also be the assessment of material biodegradability under environmental conditions, enabling evaluation of their long-term ecological impact and compliance with sustainable development principles. The aim of this research is to obtain nanomaterials combining high antimicrobial effectiveness with biological safety and potential biocompatibility, thereby enabling their safe application in contact with food, skin, and the environment. The medical aspect of the project will focus on the use of nanomaterials as modern drug delivery systems. A team from the Collegium Medicum of NCU will conduct advanced studies on the use of functionalized nanostructures, particularly graphene-based ones, as nanocarriers for antibiotics in order to improve drug efficacy and bioavailability.
The final component of the project is theoretical in nature and involves studying the optoelectronic properties of the obtained materials. Physicochemical properties (such as interlayer interactions and reactivity indices) will be examined using several theoretical approaches, including molecular modeling. Theoretical calculations will be employed to understand the mechanism of heteroatom or metal/metal oxide aggregate formation and their behavior at the atomic level. Due to their unique properties, these materials can be applied across a wide range of fields.
“Together we not only can—we act, we transcend boundaries, and we achieve more.”