Vakgroepvoorlichting
Research group information meeting
C.T.S.G. Alembic
2014
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Table of Contents
Schedule .................................................................................................................................................. 4
Wednesday 8 January, HT500B........................................................................................................... 4
Wednesday 15 January, HT500B......................................................................................................... 4
Inorganic membranes (IM) ...................................................................................................................... 5
Catalytic Processes and Materials (CPM) ................................................................................................ 6
Sustainable Process Technology (SPT) .................................................................................................... 7
Biomolecular Nano Technology (BNT) .................................................................................................... 8
Controlled Drug Delivery (CDD); formerly Biomedical Chemistry (BMC)................................................ 9
Membrane Technology Group (MTG) ................................................................................................... 11
Mesoscale Chemical Systems group (MCS) ........................................................................................... 13
Soft matter, Fluidics and Interfaces (SFI) .............................................................................................. 15
Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology .......................................................................... 17
Materials Science and Technology of Polymers (MTP) ......................................................................... 18
Inorganic Materials Science (IMS) ......................................................................................................... 20
Molecular NanoFabrication (MnF) ........................................................................................................ 21
BIOS – lab on a chip group .................................................................................................................... 22
Photocatalytic Synthesis (PCS) Group ................................................................................................... 23
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Schedule
Wednesday 8 January, HT500B
Time
13:45h
14:05h
14:20h
14:35h
14:50h
15:05h
15:20h
15:35h
15:50h
Research group
Opening
Biomaterials Science and Technology Group
BIOS Lab-on-a-Chip
Inorganic Material Science
Soft Matter, Fluidics and Interfaces
Pause
Inorganic Membranes
Catalytic Processes and Materials
Materials Science and Technology of Polymers
16:05h
16:20h
ELAN (lerarenopleiding)
Drink
Lecturer
Dirk Grijpma
Séverine Le Gac
Guus Rijnders
Anne Benneker
Arian Nijmeijer
Leon Lefferts
Joost Duvigneau &
Sissi de Beer
Fer Coenders
Wednesday 15 January, HT500B
Time
13:45h
14:05h
14:20h
14:35h
14:50h
15:05h
15:20h
15:35h
15:50h
16:05h
16:20h
Research group
Opening
Molecular Nanofabrication
Mesoscale Chemical Systems
Controlled Drug Delivery
Membrane Science and Technology
Pause
Biomolecular NanoTechnology
Photocatalytic Synthesis
Nano Ionics
Sustainable Process Technology
Drink
Lecturer
Tibor Kudernac
Han Gardeniers
Johan Engbersen
Kitty Nijmijer
Nathalie Katsonis
Kasper Wenderich
Stanley Lai
Sascha Kersten
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Inorganic membranes (IM)
Chair:
Internet site:
Contact:
e-mail:
Phone:
Room:
prof. dr. ir. Arian Nijmeijer
http://www.utwente.nl/tnw/im/
Louis Winnubst
a.j.a.winnubst@utwente.nl
+31 53 489 2994
Meander 348
Molecular separations using membranes have proven to be one of the most energy-efficient ways to
separate gases and liquids. Inorganic materials are interesting candidates for membrane applications,
because they can be applied at elevated temperature and under harsh chemical, corrosive, and
mechanical conditions.
In the Inorganic Membrane group research encompasses macro as well as micro scale phenomena.
Some examples are: the development of new membrane materials, a better fundamental
understanding of transport mechanisms, and the design of membrane processes, like membrane
reactors.
Research is subdivided in the following topics:
1. Advanced Ceramics Processing
The objective is the fabrication of advanced ceramics and the examination of their
microstructures. It involves preparation, processing, and microstructural characteristics of
powders, ceramics and coatings. By understanding the chemistry and physics behind these
processes, we can develop new, reliable ceramic membranes.
2. Solid State Ionics
Within this topic we study the ionic and mixed ionic-electronic transport in dense ceramic
materials as well as the interface and electrode reactions. Focus is on a better understanding of
the fundaments for technological applications for membranes and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC).
3. Porous Ceramic Membranes
Here the objectives are the development of micro- and mesoporous ceramic membranes and the
study of molecular transport within these, for the use in energy-efficient gas separation,
pervaporation, and nanofiltration processes.
Electron microscope picture of a porous membrane,
showing supporting layers and a selective hybrid silica
top layer (thickness: 0.1 μm; pore size: few Ångstroms).
Electron microscope picture showing the surface of a
two-phase dense, oxygen-selective, ceramic membrane.
5
Catalytic Processes and Materials (CPM)
Within the group we study how and why we are able to
influence chemical reactions by using solid catalysts, like for
instance the surface atoms and purple clusters in the picture.
The majority of the research projects within the Catalytic
Processes and Materials group is performed along two main
research lines: Catalytic biomass conversion and Catalysis in
liquid phase.
Catalytic biomass conversion
The application of bio-related materials, like organic waste,
crops like rape-seed oil and bio-oil produced via flashpyrolysis of biomass, is a promising route towards new, green,
fuels and chemicals. However, the different reactants and
reaction conditions (like the pH) ask for the development of new catalysts and new processes, since
the traditional catalysts, that have been optimized for mineral oil and gas conversion, cannot be used
anymore. Also the feedstock itself is less pure and needs further (catalytic) purification. Within our
group we develop new catalysts based on insight in the catalytic mechanism and we test the
performance of this catalysts in catalytic biomass conversion.
Catalysis in liquid phase: mass transfer
The application of solid catalysts in liquid phase reactions becomes also increasingly important
because of the easy separation of catalyst and products. One of the problems, however, with this
type of reactions is the transport of reactants to the active surface (mass transport limitations), since
diffusion in liquids is roughly 1000 times slower than in gases. Due to mass transport limitations
observed reaction rates are lower than the chemical reaction rate, thus lowering reaction rates. Very
often also the selectivity is decreased due to consecutive reactions to unwanted products. We
develop new combinations of catalyst-reactor systems that limit or prevent transport problems.
Carbon fibres attached to structured catalyst supports, such as monoliths and metal foams, are a
promising alternative for application of heterogeneous catalysis in liquid phase. The fibres create a
“hairy” layer on the macrostructure thus increasing porosity and surface area. Further, carbon fibres
are mechanically strong and chemically inert against acid and alkaline liquids, and can be easily used
as support for catalytic active phases such as palladium or platinum.
Catalysis in liquid phase: in-situ spectroscopy
For both research lines in-situ characterization techniques are very valuable and we use and develop
ways to study what is actually taking place on the catalyst’s surface, like for instance Attenuated
Total internal Reflection infrared spectroscopy (ATR-IR) and Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) in
liquid phase.
Scientific Staff
Technical Staff
4
4
Post-docs
PhD-students
5
14
Contact: Prof. Dr. Ir. L. Lefferts (L.Lefferts@tnw.utwente.nl) or Prof. Dr. K. Seshan
(K.Seshan@tnw.utwente.nl)
6
Sustainable Process Technology (SPT)
Internet site:
Chair:
Secretariat
e-mail:
Phone:
Room:
http://www.utwente.nl/tnw/spt
Prof.dr. S.R.A. Kersten
Yvonne Bruggert – ter Huurne
y.c.h.bruggert-terhuurne@utwente.nl
+31 53 489 2879
Meander 217
SPT (former TCCB group) is a relatively young research and education group on biomass as an energy
source.
Our research mission is:
Creating and perfecting new thermo-chemical routes for the production of biomass derived solid,
gaseous and liquid fuels for renewable and sustainable energy.
Providing renewable and sustainable energy is one of the most important challenges of mankind.
With biomass solar energy is captured using atmospheric CO2 as a carbon source which after
utilization of the biomass and its derived fuels is recycled again to the atmosphere. In this way, in
contrast to the use of fossil fuels, no additional CO2 is brought into the biosphere.
Biomass fuels, once produced, easily fit in the present infrastructure for energy production including
the transport sector. If production and conversion processes are carefully selected, biofuels are
sustainable and do not compete with the food chain.
Both biological and thermo-chemical conversion routes are possible for biomass but our group,
because of its expertise, concentrates on thermo-chemical routes. This research neatly fits into the
sustainable process technology spearhead of the University of Twente.
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Biomolecular Nano Technology (BNT)
Internet site:
Chair:
Secretariat
e-mail:
Phone:
Room:
http://www.utwente.nl/tnw/bnt/
Prof.dr. J.J.L.M. Cornelissen
Izabel Can-Katalanc / Nicole Haitjema
bnttnw@utwente.nl
+31 53 489 2980
Carre 4.223
Research within the BNT group focuses on using biomolecules as building blocks to engineer smart,
multifunctional bio-based materials. Inspired by nature, we use proteins and small molecules as
building blocks of choice, to assemble highly-ordered architectures ranging from protein-cages and
rods to liquid crystalline materials. Furthermore, by combining (macro)- and supra-molecular
chemistry with molecular biology approaches, we use these assemblies as templates to develop
functional materials for potential applications in (bio)catalysis, polymerisation, molecular sensing and
therapeutics. For example, we employ protein building blocks to form nanometer-sized reactors and
use the highly symmetric properties of these protein cages as scaffolds for functional materials.
Techniques used in our laboratory range from synthetic chemistry and protein engineering to
physical characterization using the state-of-the-art facilities available within MESA+ institute.
Our group pursues a broad range of research interests. Potential BSc or MSc projects cover the
following research topics:
-
Protein engineering, derivatization and assembly
(Bio)-catalysis in nanometer confinement
Hierarchical self-assembly of nanoparticles and other functional nano-objects
Synthesis of novel molecular dopants for adaptive materials
The BNT group is composed of:
Scientific Staff
Technical Staff
3
3
Post-docs
PhD-students
1
9
From building blocks
To supramolecular assemblies
To functional materials
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Controlled Drug Delivery (CDD); formerly Biomedical Chemistry (BMC)
Internet site:
Chair:
Secretariat
e-mail:
Phone:
Room:
http://www.utwente.nl/tnw/cdd/
Prof. dr. J.F.J. Engbersen
Karin Hendriks
secretariat-cdd-tnw@utwente.nl
+31 53 489 2968
Zuidhorst 246
Department of Controlled Drug Delivery is the new name that is adopted after merging of the
Departments of Biomedical Chemistry and Targeted Therapeutics. The research themes of the
department of Controlled Drug Delivery are organized in two sections, originating from the previous
departments.
The section Biomedical Chemistry is most relevant for students in Chemical Engineering as this
section focuses on the utilization of expertise and skills in chemistry to translate biological properties
into functional materials for targeting drug delivery and medical imaging.
Therefore, design, synthesis, and characterization of multifunctional polymers that respond in a
controlled manner to different biological environments (blood, tissue, intracellular domain) are
current laboratory activities. Interesting polymers are further explored for design and development
of micro- and nanoparticles for controlled drug and gene delivery (nanomedicines). Research in this
area involves evaluation of biomedical properties (drug loading, drug release profiles, cellular
uptake, cellular fate, cytotoxicity, endosomal escape, gene silencing, transfection, therapeutic
response, imaging efficacy, etc.).
CT-students who are interested to make a switch in their study towards cell biological research (e.g.
BME master) may also consider to join a project of the section Targeted Therapeutics. Their approach
is to utilize pharmaceutical and biological expertise and skills to develop new targeted therapeutics
and image-guided drug delivery systems and their translation into clinical applications. Current
laboratory activities include preparation and characterization of liposomes and alginate nanoparticles
and investigating new target receptors/pathways, intracellular mechanisms, and cell-cell
interactions.
Some examples of projects for CT- students in the section Biomedical Chemistry are:
Targeting Drug and Gene Delivery Systems
Development of targeting and controlled therapeutic delivery systems gives an essential contribution
to medical treatment of many different diseases, like cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular and nerve
system diseases, musculoskeletal diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, well as treatments for eye and skin
diseases. Targeted delivery of pharmaceuticals to an intended site of action in the body is considered
as one of the most important issues for the next generation of therapeutics.
In our group, multi-functionalized polymeric systems are designed to achieve controlled and/or
targeted delivery of drugs and genes (DNA, RNA). Therefore, biodegradable, stimuli-responsive
materials with preprogrammed properties, responding to physical, chemical, and/or biological
triggers in the spatial-temporal domain are being developed. These materials show large and sharp
physical-chemical changes in response to small physical stimuli such as temperature, light,
ultrasound, or magnetic field and/or to chemical stimuli such as changes in pH and/or concentrations
of biological molecules like hormones, etc.
Examples are: nano-sized polymeric particles containing small anti-cancer drugs, DNA, or small RNAs
for cancer treatment, nanogel particles for delivery of therapeutic peptides and proteins, matrices
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for delivery of growth hormones, and nano-spheres for the prevention of restenosis after stent
implantation.
Nanoparticles for MRI and PET imaging and therapy of prostate cancer
This theme has recently started and aims the development of multifunctional polymeric
nanoparticles for in vivo application in dual-mode PET-MRI imaging to detect prostate cancer.
Furthermore, prostate cancel targeting nanoparticles will be loaded with anti-cancer drugs to
combine imaging with therapy (theranostics).
Functional polymeric materials for (bio-)medical applications
Research is focused on the design, synthesis and structure-property relationship of novel materials,
which degrade at a predetermined rate, and which can be applied for various medical applications,
such as bioresponsive hydrogels for controlled delivery of bioactive compounds, temporary supports
like suture materials, and matrices for tissue engineering. The properties and applications of novel
biodegradable materials are explored in different projects. Important classes of biodegradable
polymers that are studied are polyamidoamines, boronic acid-functionalized polymers, and their
copolymers.
For more information on the Department of Controlled Drug Delivery visit the home page
http://www.utwente.nl/tnw/cdd/
Contact: Prof. dr. J.F.J. Engbersen, j.f.j.engbersen@utwente.nl
Dr. ir. J.M.J. Paulusse, j.m.j.paulusse@utwente.nl
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Membrane Technology Group (MTG)
Internet site:
Chair:
Secretariat
e-mail:
Phone:
Room:
http://www.utwente.nl/tnw/mtg
Dr. Kitty Nijmeijer
Greet Kamminga
msttnw@utwente.nl
+31 53 489 2950
Meander 326
The Membrane Technology Group (MTG) focuses on the multi-disciplinary topic of membrane
science and technology for the separation of molecular mixtures. We aim at designing membrane
morphology and structure on a molecular level to control mass transport phenomena in macroscopic
applications. We consider our expertise as a multidisciplinary knowledge chain ranging from
molecule to process. We distinguish three application clusters, i.e. Energy, Water and Life Sciences.
Materials
science
Application
studies
Mass
transport
control
Membrane
design &
synthesis
Membrane
characterization
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Energy
The research on Energy is dedicated to the molecular design and
synthesis of polymer membranes for energy applications. Examples
are CO2 capture, olefin/paraffin separation, biorefinery applications,
fuel cells and the generation of electricity from the mixing of sea and
river water (Salinity Gradient Energy or ‘Blue Energy’). Relevant
materials science oriented aspects are control of structureproperties relationships, separation of multi-component mixtures
(binary, ternary systems, effect of impurities), interaction of the feed
components with the membrane (e.g. plasticization) and
performance evaluation. Important process technological research aspects are e.g. improvement of
hydrodynamics, membrane and spacer design, separation of complex mixtures, concentration
polarization and fouling.
Water
Within the application area Water, research addresses the development of membranes and the
application of membrane technology for water treatment. In particular it investigates the relation
between membrane properties, hydrodynamic conditions and fouling behavior. Research topics
include mPIV, microfluidic filtration, fouling control, membrane bioreactors and biofouling.
Life Sciences
Within the application cluster Life Sciences, we focus on the design of porous systems to separate
complex multicomponent mixtures in pharmaceutical, food, beverage and diagnostics applications.
Important subjects are tuning the material properties and structure (e.g. pore morphology and
porosity), the development of functional materials
(e.g. affinity separations of biomolecules) and the
creation of new and/or improved processes (e.g.
faster processes, higher yields, less fouling, etc.).
Other aspects related to process design and
industrial implementation, such as scale-up of
novel membrane fabrication methods are
investigated.
Scientific Staff
Technical Staff
6
3
Post-docs
PhD-students
2
13
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Mesoscale Chemical Systems group (MCS)
Internet site:
Chair:
Secretariat
e-mail:
Phone:
Room:
http://mcs.tnw.utwente.nl/
Prof. dr. J.G.E. Gardeniers
Brigitte Boogaard
mcs@tnw.utwente.nl
+31 53 489 2099
Meander ME 152
The MCS group, which is part of MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, studies downscaling and
integration concepts, using microsystems and nanotechnology. The goals of the research are:
- to enhance throughput and selectivity of chemical reactions and product purification
- to improve the analysis of mass-limited chemical and medical samples
- to contribute to the fundamental knowledge of molecular dynamics in nano-confinement.
MCS develops micro devices with volumes of 1 nanoliter to 1 milliliter of a solution or gas, or of more
complex two-phase systems like two immiscible liquids (e.g. for extraction) or gas-liquid systems (e.g.
for hydrogenation). The behavior of fluids at such small dimensions is different from that in typical
(largescale) batch reactor systems, because at the small scale where turbulence does not occur,
diffusion is the main mechanism for mixing. However, due to the short distances for diffusion ,
chemistry can still be performed at appreciable rates, and in combination with the high surface-tovolume ratio that is obtained (and even enhanced by applying materials developed by
nanotechnology) mass and heat transport rates can be very high. For this reason these microreactors
have become more and more popular in industrial environments.
Left: microstructured column for chemical (catalytic) synthesis or liquid chromatography on a chip; right: gas
discharge (visible as glowing light pattern) in a microreactor immersed in beaker with cooling liquid
Because of the small dimensions, it also becomes possible to apply new concepts for activation of
chemical reactions, with the goal to find more sustainable routes for chemical processing and
contribute to the field of process intensification. Examples are the activation of gas phase chemistry
and control of adsorption of species on catalyst surfaces by electrical fields (collaboration with CPM
group) or the use of light-to-electricity converting microstructures to activate electricity-driven
chemistry in liquids (collaboration with MnF and PCS groups). It is also possible to integrate work-up
functionality with the microreactors, like membrane extraction (collaboration with the SFI group) or
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use microreactors at extreme conditions like high pressures and involving supercritical fluids, without
the risks that are normally associated with such conditions.
In the analytical chemistry field research is performed on small-scale chromatography
methods and integrated spectroscopic techniques. Liquid chromatography "on a chip" has clear
advantages over conventional LC, because nanostructuring leads to novel types of separation
columns giving very fast and efficient separations. Separations at this small scale require special
(integrated) injection and detection concepts, e.g. very-low-dead-volume interfaces with mass
spectrometry. Related to this is the development of microfluidic NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance),
where at the moment we are able to achieve the same sensitivity and spectral resolution as in stateof-the-art conventional high-resolution NMR, but for a 1000 times smaller sample volume, i.e. in less
than 1 microliter. This is very relevant for medical and biological studies where only tiny amounts of
body fluids are available, but also for pharmaceutical industry in the early stages of drug
development, or in organic chemistry to study reaction mechanisms and kinetics. Besides in these
fields, miniaturized chemical analysis concepts are important in forensic and clinical applications, as
well as in chemical process and environmental monitoring.
A topic with increasing focus is proteins and enzymes in confinement, e.g. in a nanometersized liquid channel or immobilized on a surface. Immobilization has advantages over dissolved
enzymes, like recovery and re-use and the possibility to perform a cascade of enzymatic reactions in
a continuous flow reactor. The confinement also mimics the biological environment of a cell, where
proteins exist in so-called "crowded solutions" or are fixed in lipid membranes. This research
therefore helps in understanding processes like protein (mis)folding and clustering, which is of
medical relevance, but is also important for industrial crystallization.
Scientific Staff
Technical Staff
2
1
Post-docs
PhD-students
3
8
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Soft matter, Fluidics and Interfaces (SFI)
Internet site:
Chair:
Secretariat
e-mail:
Phone:
Room:
http://www.utwente.nl/tnw/sfi
prof. dr. ir. R.G.H. Lammertink
Lidy Harryvan
a.g.harryvan@utwente.nl
+31 53 489 4798
Meander 226
The chair of Soft matter, Fluidics and Interfaces is addressing interfacial phenomena that are relevant
for (micro)fluidic processes. Such phenomena include multiphase flow, phase contacting, interface
geometry, wetting, and separations, mostly related to mass/heat transport control. Careful
interfacial design and fabrication will allow manipulating (multiphase) flow on a (sub)micrometer
level. Fabrication of well-defined structures is foreseen as a crucial aspect, in order to study the
fundamentals of interfacial phenomena. Here, computational tools will assist in proof-of-concept
analysis and in specific structure design.
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Current research topics include:
Microfluidic solvent exchange
(Yali Zhang)
The goal of this research is to fabricate porous ceramic microreactors
via simple replication processes. The new multiphase contacting in
these microreactors is studied for relevant catalytic gas-liquid systems.
Watercleaning microreactors
(Damon Rafieian)
The ultimate goal of the project is realization of a microreactor applied
for water purification employing photocatalytic reaction technique
(oxidation) and hydrogenation of nitrite/nitrate (reduction). The
combination of these steps is believed to remove all contaminants
form drinking water.
Hybrid materials for selective adsorption
(Vic van Dijk)
Hybrid membranes that consist of an organic skeleton surrounded by
an inorganic compound (e.g. silica) offer the opportunity to unite the
best of both research fields. Such a hybrid membrane promises to be
mechanically flexible due to its polymeric skeleton, while exhibiting
separation properties of an (functionalized) inorganic membrane.
Interfacial transport phenomena
(Sander Haase)
Interfacial transport phenomena often determine or limit process
performance. Boundary layers that are involved in these processes are
studied on a microscopic length scale. This research aims at
understanding transport phenomena near permeable boundaries, so
that processes can be improved by exploiting these phenomena.
Overlimiting current electrodialysis
(Joeri de Valenca)
In electrodialysis, ions are transported through an ion selective
membrane. Under severe concentration polarization, electroconvective phenomena are observed at the membrane boundary. The
aim is to study surface heterogeneity in relation to these electroconvective phenomena.
Microfluidic electrokinetics
(Anne Benneker)
Charge selective interfaces under the application of an electric field
are prone to overlimiting current behavior. Theoretical and numerical
studies show that hydrodynamic effects are of great importance in
this overlimiting behavior. The aim of this research is to
experimentally investigate the microfluidic behavior causing the
overlimiting current and possibly linking it to theoretical and
numerical predictions.
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Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology
(BST, http://www.utwente.nl/tnw/bst/ - Prof. Dr. D.W. Grijpma)
The group conducts research on resorbable polymeric materials and structures for use in medical
devices, tissue engineering and in the delivery of relevant biologically active compounds. Through
purposeful design of the chemical structure and architecture of the polymer, tailored materials for
use in a specific envisaged (medical) application can be prepared. From work on flexible resorbable
materials, already one spin-off company has been created.
Current work includes the development of advanced microstructures by photo-polymerization of
functionalized degradable oligomers in stereolithography and research programs on the tissue
engineering of cardiac muscle, heart valve leaflets and blood vessels and the synthesis and
processing of composite materials for fracture reconstruction in maxillofacial surgery. Pre-designed
anisotropic architectures based on biologically active materials are being developed to engineer
musculoskeletal and cardiovascular tissues in bioreactors under conditions that mimic the natural
environment. The release of biologically active compounds can be regulated by the proper design of
delivery systems. For this, specific biodegradable polymers have been prepared and their effect on
cellular behaviour has been studied. The release has been effectuated from degradable particles as
well as from crosslinked networks.
Research topics include: resorbable polymers for medical applications, structure-properties
relationships in polymers, tissue engineering, bioreactor technology, patterned surfaces and microfluidics, drug delivery, ring opening polymerization, photo-polymerization and stereolithography.
Bachelor- and Master research assignments can be performed within these areas. Depending on the
background and interest of the student, multidisciplinary projects with other research groups within
the MIRA and MESA+ institutes can be defined.
Computer design of a tissue engineering scaffold,
which is then built by stereolithography using a
biodegradable polymeric resin. MicroCT analysis
shows that the built structure precisely matches
the design.
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Materials Science and Technology of Polymers (MTP)
Research focus: Macromolecular Nanotechnology
The group Materials Science and Technology of Polymers (MTP), chaired by Professor G. Julius
Vancso, studies a range of topics, which revolve around macromolecular nanotechnology and
materials chemistry of nanostructured (macro)molecular materials.
MTP’s mission is to establish approaches, devise and construct tools, and build materials platforms
that enable studies of macromolecular structure, behavior and function from the nanometer length
scale, bottom up, in a direct one-to-one control of the molecular objects. This knowledge is utilized
to obtain advanced functional macromolecular materials and devices with enhanced or novel
properties and functions for targeted applications.
Overview of research in MTP
Research in the group Materials Science and Technology of Polymers is focused on the molecular
level understanding, manipulation and control of polymeric materials. Work is carried out in three
clusters:
1. Materials chemistry of polymers with defined molecular and mesoscopic structures
2. Morphology development and molecular order of polymers on the nanoscale and
3. Engineering and analysis of polymer surfaces and interfaces, nanotechnology, nanofabrication,
and self-assembly.
Highlights
Probing individual non-covalent interactions in supramolecular polymers by AFM; Single molecules
fluorescence studies of polymer segment dynamics in thin films; Single molecule force spectroscopy
and tunable complex stability in surface molecular recognition mediated by self-complementary
quadruple hydrogen bonds. Some examples of projects carried out within MTP are given below.
Layer-by-layer constructed porous architectures
Colloidal particles of manganese carbonate covered
with multilayers of high-molar mass double-stranded
DNA and cationic poly(ferrocenylsilane) (PFS)
polyelectrolytes (SEM image). The macroporous
structures, confirmed also by AFM (inset image) were
constructed by simple sequential supramolecular
assembly controlled by the persistence length
mismatch of the constituents. Upon MnCO3 core
removal, porous capsules were obtained. The
electrostatic self-assembly of polyelectrolytes with a
high persistence length and chain length mismatch
demonstrated here constitutes a new method for the
fabrication of bio-compatible porous structures,
which may have potential applications in new cell
scaffold materials, gene therapy, biocompatible
surfaces, and controlled, active molecular release
systems.
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Single molecules fluorescence studies
By monitoring single molecule lifetime fluctuations,
we were able to determine the number of polymer
segments taking part in a rearrangement volume.
Corresponding results provided us information on
local polymer segment mobility, and its variation
with temperature and with changes in confinement
conditions. It was found that the effects the surface
region has on the segment dynamics propagate deep
into the polymer sample over distances larger than
the radius of gyration (Rg = 10 nm) at temperatures
far below the glass transition temperature.
Redox stimulus responsive capsules
Organometallic, iron containing, stimulus responsive
polymers were used to fabricate responsive microand nanocapsules. The hollow containers were made
in water by electrostatic layer-by-layer self-assembly.
In this process, positively and negatively charged
polyions are sequentially assembled on a
microsphere template, which is chemically removed
upon completion of the assembly process. The thin
walls of the capsules obtained are held together by
electrostatic interactions and have a molecular
permeability which can be controlled by changing the
oxidation state of iron in the polymer chains. Thus
the capsules allow one to capture, retain and release
molecules of predetermined sizes. Potential
applications include encapsulation and release of
cosmetic agents and drugs, and in bionanochemistry
to encapsulate (and protect) single enzyme catalyst
molecules. Image: confocal fluorescence microscopy
images of empty and loaded PFS capsules (Nature
Materials 2006, 5, 724-729).
International collaborations: Münster University, Germany. IMRE, Singapore. Newcastle University,
UK.
Master Assignments
For Master Assignments, including assignments of our spin-off company Aerotech Development,
please visit: http://www.mtpgroup.nl/ or
Contact
Prof.dr. G.J. Vancso, CR 4.243, Tel. 2967
Dr. M.A. Hempenius, CR 4.239, Tel. 2975
Dr. P.M. Schön CR 4.405, Tel. 3170
Secretariaat: Geneviève Rietveld CR 4.241, Tel. 2974
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Inorganic Materials Science (IMS)
The IMS group works at the international forefront of materials science research on complex metal
oxides and hybrids, and provides an environment where young researchers and students are
stimulated to excel in this field.
The research is focussed on the following activities:
Nanoelectronic Materials
The general objective of the chair NanoElectronic Materials
(NEM) is the research in new inorganic materials for
applications in nanotechnology, and to improve the existing
ones. The research is based on current trends in
nanomaterials science and developments within MESA+:
controlled growth of materials, control of their structure,
and understanding of the structure-property relations.
Physics Of Complex Inorganic Nano-Materials
The research in the IMS workgroup headed by dr. Gertjan
Koster focuses on three areas: manipulated oxide thin film
growth and modeling, oxide thin film meso materials and in
situ spectroscopy. The research is centered on the COMAT
system; a UHV pulsed laser deposition (PLD) system with in
situ spectroscopies and imaging techniques (XPS, UPS, XPD,
STM, AFM, PFM).
Inorganic & Hybrid Nanomaterials Chemistry
Activities are focused on the development functional
inorganic and hybrid nanomaterials and nanostructures
from colloidal and chemical solutions. The main emphasis
within the research is on oxide and hybrid thin films for
energy and electronic applications, soft lithographic microand nanopatterning of functional oxides, and the synthesis
and applications of low-dimensional nanostructures like
nanowires and nanosheets.
Nanomaterials for energy
The research aim is to develop new materials with novel
advanced properties in which the functionality is controlled
by nanoscale structures leading to improved energy
applications. Currently research is focused on four topics:
interface effects, thermoelectrics, hydrogen generation and
solar CO2 conversion.
For more information, please visit the following website: http://www.utwente.nl/tnw/ims.
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Molecular NanoFabrication (MnF)
Internet site:
Chair:
Secretariat
e-mail:
Phone:
Room:
http://www.utwente.nl/tnw/mnf/
Prof.dr.ir. J. Huskens
Izabel Can-Katalanc / Nicole Haitjema
mnf-tnw@utwente.nl
+31 53 489 2980
Carre 4.223
The research in the MnF group is focused at fundamental and applied studies of molecular
assemblies and nanofabrication. The group investigates the possibilities to build molecularly defined,
organic and hybrid assemblies in two or three dimensions via non-covalent interactions between the
constituents. Key aspects are: multivalency, materials assembly, biomolecular assembly, cell-surface
interactions, surface patterning, chemistry in microfluidic channels, macrocyclic ligands for heavy
metal ions, and combinations thereof. Applications lie in areas such as: sensing, materials,
(nano)electronics, biomolecule arrays and assays, and tissue engineering.
Potential BSc or MSc projects can involve themes such as:
- host-guest recognition at interfaces
- protein assembly at interfaces
- patterning of self-assembled monolayers
- motion of molecules and nanomaterials
- soft and imprint lithography
- chemistry in microfluidic systems
- ligand synthesis and testing for heavy metal ion complexation
Scientific Staff
Technical and Support Staff
4
4
Post-docs
PhD-students
5
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BIOS – lab on a chip group
”We want to investigate and realize Labs on a Chip for healthcare and sustainable technologies”
During the past decade the BIOS group has spent a lot of effort to
develop Labs-on-a-Chip. This has resulted in enormous advancements in
knowledge of (nano)sensors, micro- and nanofluidic phenomena and
their application in the medical domain. Recently, we are also trying to
apply the same technologies in sustainability such as for desalination of
water and green energy. Our group is strongly multidisciplinary, and our
members have highly diverse backgrounds such as electrical
engineering, chemistry, physics, biology and medicine.
In our group we spend a lot of effort in investigating cells and tissues on
a chip. We investigate for instance how we can control mouse embryo’s
growth the best way so that they can be reimplanted with the highest
chance of successful pregnancy and birth. We investigate the toxicity of
chemicals and nanoparticles on cells and tissues, and we are developing
a so-called blood-brain-barrier (BBB) to study which drugs can or can
not reach the brain. We try to develop a microsystem using high-speed
microdroplets (up to >1000/s) that contain single hybridoma cells to
efficiently produce sophisticated drugs. But we also investigate simple
disposable medical Lab on Chip devices, for instance to measure the
fertililty of human semen, to test breath for COPD patients or creatinine
in blood for kidney patients. We are developing micro-needle
electrodes in an attempt to better understand the occurrence of
migraine attacks, in a collaboration with profs. Ferrari and Scheffer, and
in a very ambitious program, we try to develop the essential elements
for a nanopill that can detect hypermethylated DNA as early warning
sign of intestinal cancer in-vivo.
As part of the development of such medical Lab on Chip systems we continuously try to improve
nanotechnological detection techniques using the NanoLab infrastructure. In one project we look at
nanostructured surfaces for highly sensitive Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) analysis ,
while in other projects we investigate nanogap detection structures to develop untrasensitive DNA
detection. We use a Scanning Electrochemical Microscope (SECM) to investigate and electrically
stimulate single cells on the nanoscale, and investigate the use of nanoparticles for highly specific
and sensitive biosensing.
In recent initiatives we are exploring the use or micro and nanofluidic structures for sustainable
technologies. In one project, we use microfluidic structures to analyse capacitive desalination, a
technique used to desalinate brackish water, in order to optimize materials and procedures and
perhaps obtain higher efficiencies. Another effort focuses at converting hydraulic energy directly into
electrical energy with high efficiency using streaming current en potential. Finally, we are developing
stand-alone, in-situ, wireless chloride sensors to monitor concrete degradation in bridges.
For prospective students in our group we ask an open mind to multidisciplinary research with
chemical, physical or medical/biological aspects. Enthusiasm for science, independent and critical
working and thinking as well as a good team spirit is highly recommended. Please visit our group and
talk to our staff and students for more detailed information!
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Photocatalytic Synthesis (PCS) Group
Internet site:
Chair:
Secretariat
e-mail:
Phone:
Room:
http://www.utwente.nl/tnw/pcs
prof. dr. G. Mul
Lidy Harryvan
a.g.harryvan@utwente.nl
+31 53 489 4798
Meander 226
Photocatalysis is based on the use of light activated catalysts in chemical conversion. Practical
application is limited because of problems in light management, such as mismatch in catalyst
sensitivity and solar spectrum, the limited ability of photo-excited states to induce electron transfer
reactions, and lack of efficient light exposure of catalysts in reactors. We aim at understanding the
role of both the physical and chemical properties of innovative materials in establishing
photocatalytic transformations, targeting improved catalyst design. We also study the effect of
process conditions and reactor geometry on performance, to establish operation of devices with high
efficiency.
1. The conversion of solar energy into chemical energy, i.e. to drive thermodynamically uphill
reactions such as the synthesis of hydrocarbons by reaction of CO2 with H2O
2. The high selectivities that can be obtained in alkane oxidation over photon excited catalysts
3. Photocatalytic purification of waste streams (air and water)
Several exciting projects in these application areas are conducted in the group. An example is the
investigation of the role of metal nanoparticles in improving photocatalytic activity of TiO 2. Advanced
synthesis of the metal nanoparticles allows us to systematically study the effect of size and (alloy)
composition, while we also investigate the effect of process parameters such as light intensity, effect
of water vapor, and reactant concentrations.
Another interesting project is the development of an electrochemical process to convert CO2 and
water into CO or hydrocarbons with high efficiency. Such process could be a means to store
electricity in times when production is exceeding demand. We study the effect of electrolyte
(solvent), temperature, and pressure on the performance of various electrode compositions.
Additional themes for potential BSc or MSc projects can involve:
- Construction of Z-scheme based devices for photocatalytic water splitting
- Design and construction of silicon based devices combining optimal light absorption and
catalysis
- Study of the effect of synthesis parameters on morphology and electronic properties of
mixed metal oxides
- Studying the behaviour of photocatalysts in purification of water containing multiple toxins
- Developing improved water oxidation catalysts
- Detailed Infrared studies of photocatalytic processes
- Analysis of light propagation in slurry reactors
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