Summer School onsite programme |
Day | Time | Teacher/Mentor
Affiliation | Course name
In brief |
01-Jul | Villa Zingali Tetto (Museo della rappresentazione), Via Etnea, 742, 95128 Catania CT (https://maps.app.goo.gl/yEbQX3RfKQCMpAGv8) |
8:30-8:50 | registration |
8:50-9:00 | Welcome addressProf. Cristina Satriano, REUNICE scientific coordinatorProf. Gianluca Cicala, vice Director DICARProf. Lucia Zappalà, Deputy Rector InternationalizationProf. Mattia Frasca, Erasmus Institutional Coordinator |
9:00-10:30 | Philippe Leclère
University of Mons, BE | Scanning probe microscopy – General introduction
In materials science, when someone wants to optimize some properties or improve a device's performance, the characterization tools are essential. Most of the time, the physical and the chemical properties of the surface and interfaces have to be determined at the nanoscale to get this information. and a few decades, Scanning Probe Microscopy and Spectroscopy are the key players in answering these crucial points. In these lectures, after a general introduction presenting the different parts of the microscope, we will discuss how to determine at the nanoscale the mechanical, electrical properties of materials that can be used for energy applications (photovoltaics, batteries, energy harvesters, …) through different imaging and spectroscopic modes. |
10:30-11:00 | coffee break |
11:00-13:00 | Clara Casado Coterillo
University of Cantabria, ES | General characterization of biopolymer (membranes):
review of characterization techniques most commonly used to understand the potential and improvements of biopolymers in (membrane) applications. |
13:00-14:30 | Lunch break |
14:30-16:00 | Clara Casado Coterillo
University of Cantabria, ES | Biopolymers in membrane technology (I):
overview of the recent examples and challenges of biopolymers to move membrane technology into the circular economy framework. |
16:00-16:30 | coffee break |
16:30-17:30 | Clara Casado Coterillo
University of Cantabria, ES | Biopolymers in membrane technology (II):
overview of biopolymers' recent examples and challenges to move membrane technology into the circular economy framework. |
17:45 | Free time - autonomous dinner |
| | | |
02-Jul | Villa Zingali Tetto (Museo della rappresentazione), Via Etnea, 742, 95128 Catania CT (https://maps.app.goo.gl/yEbQX3RfKQCMpAGv8) |
8:30-9:00 | registration |
9:00-10:30 | Clara Casado Coterillo
University of Cantabria, ES | Synthesis of biopolymer based membranes:
overview of the synthesis procedures that were developed for existing membranes and their adaptations to biopolymer-based technology. |
10:30-11:00 | coffee break |
11:00-13:00 | Clara Casado Coterillo
University of Cantabria, ES | Application potential of biopolymer based membranes in CO2 capture and utilization:
a summary of recent developments in literature and our research group and collaborations. |
13:00-14:30 | Lunch break |
14:30-16:00 | Philippe Leclère
University of Mons, BE | About the piezoelectric and thermoelectric properties of materials at the nanoscale: the case of energy harvesters |
16:00-16:30 | coffee break |
16:30-17:30 | Philippe Leclère
University of Mons, BE | The next step: multifunctional characterization platform and correlative data analysis |
17:45 | Free time - autonomous dinner |
| | | |
03-Jul | Villa Zingali Tetto (Museo della rappresentazione), Via Etnea, 742, 95128 Catania CT (https://maps.app.goo.gl/yEbQX3RfKQCMpAGv8) |
8:30-9:00 | registration |
9:00-10:30 | Michał Niemczak
Poznan University of Technology, PL | Creative design of new multifunctional compounds - in the search of attractive cation-anion combinations for the modern pharmaceutical, agrochemical and surfactant industry (I)
The search for new multifunctional compounds, specifically targeting innovative cation-anion combinations, holds significant potential for advancements in the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and surfactant industries. |
10:30-11:00 | coffee break |
11:00-12:30 | Michał Niemczak
Poznan University of Technology, PL | Creative design of new multifunctional compounds - in the search of attractive cation-anion combinations for the modern pharmaceutical, agrochemical and surfactant industry (II)
Therefore, in the framework of the following course, recent research on the development of quaternary ammonium salts (QASs), known for their effectiveness across these applications, will be thoroughly discussed. |
03-Jul
(common programme with the Workshop) | 12:30-13:00 | |
13:00-14:30 | Registration + Lunch break |
14:30-14:45 | Welcome |
14:45-15:40 | | Materials and systems for green hydrogen production and storage: challenges and opportunities
Sabrina Sartori, University of Oslo |
15:40-17:30 | | Application of aluminium-coated membranes for the immobilization of enzymes: model reactions for the evaluation of enzyme activity
Aleksandra Rybak, Poznan University of Technology |
| Solid-state modification of poly(butylene terephthalate) with a photoreactive Cinnamamide monomer
Jacques Kevin Wandji, University of Mons |
| Novel multimetallic complexes as precursors for fluoride functional materials
Claudia Barbagallo, University of Catania |
| Single-Ion Counting with an Ultra-Thin-Membrane Silicon Carbide Sensor for Quantum Applications
Enrico Sangregorio, University of Catania |
| Boron doped Zinc Oxide thin film as ETL alternative candidate in Perovskite single-junction solar cell
Fiorella Tringali, University of Catania |
| 250 µm thick detectors for neutron detection: design, electrical characteristics, and detector performances
Gabriele Trovato, University of Catania |
| Earth-abundant nanostructures for energy storage applications
Maria Chiara Spadaro, University of Catania |
| Work function evaluation of thin films for solar cells by Ambient Pressure Photoemission
Vanna Torrisi, University of Catania |
| Manufacture and optimisation of ZnO-based high-frequency transducers
Reda Aitayad, Université Polytechnique Hauts-de-France |
| Can surface-active ionic liquids based on caprylic acid be a green alternative to surfactants in detergent production?
Marta Wojcieszak, Poznan University of Technology |
| Enzymatic membrane reactor supported with ionic liquid as an efficient platform for removal of estrogens
Oliwia Degórska, Poznan University of Technology |
| Mechanochemical Synthesis as a Proecological Approach of Production of MOF-type materials
Weronika Badzińska, Poznan University of Technology |
| Synthesis of modern hydrogel polymer electrolytes
Wiktoria Żyła, Poznan University of Technology |
| Mechanism of aqueous electrolyte uptake by the hydrophilic lignin gel and its application as electrolyte for supercapacitor
Ameila Klimek, Poznan University of Technology |
| Ionic liquids comprising alkyl betainate cation and iodosulfuron-methyl anion as novel effective herbicides with reduced environmental impact
Adriana Olejniczak, Poznan University of Technology |
| Interaction of surfactants of natural origin with phospholipid membrane
Adam Grzywaczyk, Poznan University of Technology |
| Precipitation of Platinum Group Metal Nanoparticles in Bioinspired Systems
Wiktoria Stachowicz,Poznan University of Technology |
| Impact of potentially protective agents on lactic acid bacteria in probiotic formulations
Natalia Burlaga, Poznan University of Technology |
| Perovskite-based surfaces as photoanodes for an enhanced solar-driven CO2 reduction to formate
Jose Antonio Abarca, University of Cantabria |
| Potential integration of osmotic pumps and magnetic nanoparticles in the development of novel drug delivery systems
David Navarro Tumar, University of Cantabria |
| Valorization of polluted biomass waste for the fabrication of Gas Diffusion Electrodes for CO2 electroreduction to formate
Iker Uriarte-Porres, University of Cantabria |
| Photoelectrochemical conversion of CO2 with perovskite-based materials
Mario Alonso Muñoz, University of Cantabria |
| Enhancing Electrochemical CO2 Reduction: Improved Performance of a Three-Compartment Reactor for Formic Acid Production
Mario Coz-Cruz, University of Cantabria |
| Sustainable technologies for the extraction and separation of strategic raw materials for lithium-ion batteries: an innovative development.
Nerea García Gómez, University of Cantabria |
| Ni-decorated CaTiO3/WO3/BiVO4 layered photoanodes for
photoelectrochemical applications
Sara Crespo, University of Cantabria |
| Evaluation of photoexcited charge carriers of CdS/TiO2 heterojunction for photocatalytic hydrogen production
Gabriela García Basté, University of Cantabria |
| Sodium alginate surface-modified magnetic materials for microplastics separation
Daniel Aragón, University of Cantabria |
| Synthesis and multi-scale characterization of Zinc Oxide Nanowires
Imen Benkhaled, University of Mons |
| On the Importance of a Correct Data Acquisition Protocol of the Electromechanical Properties of Materials for Energy Harvesting Applications: Piezoelectric Nanocomposites as a Case Study
Pierre Nickmilder, University of Mons |
| Synthesis of New Biocompatible Materials Based on Alginic Acid with Antibacterial Activity
Erika Saccullo, University of Catania |
| Root-associated microorganisms for optimizing biological control in tomato
Mariangela Milordo, University of Catania |
| Nanostructuration of GaN: A Promising Route to Quantum Single-Photon Sources
Antouman Sallah, University of Catania |
| Enhancing Energy Consumption Forecasting Accuracy through Automated Machine Learning
Francesco Zito, University of Catania |
| Frontiers in nanomedicine: unlocking wound healing potentials with PVP capped gold and silver nanoparticles and nanorods
Alice Foti, University of Catania |
| Spin orbit coupling effects in a graphene Josephson junction
Federico Bonasera, University of Catania |
| Circuit Quantum Electrodynamics with two-dimensional materials-based devices
Vincenzo Varrica, University of Catania |
| Fully integrated galvanic isolation interface in GaN technology
Katia Samperi, University of Catania |
| Towards sustainable polyester resins: from vitrimerization to bio-based additives for a greener thermoset and composite manufacturing
Giuliana Rizzo, University of Catania |
17:40 | |
18:00-20:00 | |
20:15 | |
| | | |
04-Jul | Villa Zingali Tetto (Museo della rappresentazione), Via Etnea, 742, 95128 Catania CT (https://maps.app.goo.gl/yEbQX3RfKQCMpAGv8) |
8:30-9:00 | registration |
9:00-10:30 | Michał Niemczak
Poznan University of Technology, PL | Creative design of new multifunctional compounds - in the search of attractive cation-anion combinations for the modern pharmaceutical, agrochemical and surfactant industry (III)
Pharmaceuticals rely on QASs compounds for improved drug delivery systems and enhanced therapeutic effects. Agrochemicals benefit from these innovations by improving crop protection and soil health through more efficient and environmentally friendly solutions. Surfactants, essential in various industries, achieve better performance and biodegradability through optimized cation-anion combinations. In pharmaceuticals, QASs demonstrate promising antibacterial and antifungal properties, crucial for developing new medications. In agrochemicals, they offer enhanced pest and weed control while minimizing environmental impact. In the case of surfactants, appropriately designed QASs can contribute to enhanced wetting or cleaning properties with simultaneous biocidal activity, which is highly beneficial in the context for seeking for improved product performance. |
10:30-11:00 | coffee break |
11:00-13:00 | Michał Niemczak
Poznan University of Technology, PL | Creative design of new multifunctional compounds - in the search of attractive cation-anion combinations for the modern pharmaceutical, agrochemical and surfactant industry (IV)
Current advancements in QAS research show significant improvements in the stability and bioavailability of these compounds, making them more effective and safer for use. Future prospects that will be discussed include the continued exploration of novel cation-anion combinations to tailor properties specifically to industry needs. This ongoing research aims to create compounds that are not only highly functional but also sustainable and environmentally friendly, ensuring a positive impact on health, agriculture, and industry. |
13:00-14:30 | lunch break |
14:45 | shuttle transfer from Villa Zingali Tetto (Museo della rappresentazione), Via Etnea, 742, 95128 Catania CT (https://maps.app.goo.gl/yEbQX3RfKQCMpAGv8) to Polo Tecnologico, Via S. Sofia, 102, 95123 Catania CT (https://maps.app.goo.gl/5mw9B5E7euWw1gsR9) |
15:00-18:00 | Laboratory activity
(training and supervision: Gianluca Cicala and Claudio Tosto, UNICT; Philippe Leclere, UMONS; Michał Niemczak, PUT) |
18:00-19:00 | coffee break/happy hour |
19:00- | |
19:30- | Free time, autonomous dinner |
| | | |
05-Jul
(common programme with the Workshop) | 09:00 | |
09:30-10:10 | | Nature-mimicking intelligent micro/nanorobots
Mario Urso, University of Catania |
10:10-10:30 | | Facile synthesis of sulfurized MoO3 nanostructures from industrial waste powder for energy storage application
Federico Ursino, University of Catania |
10:30-10:50 | | On the Electromechanical Properties of Hybrid Piezolectric Nanocomposites by Scanning Probe Microscopy
Pierre Nickmilder, University of Mons |
10:50-11:10 | | Impact of rare earth doping in transition metal oxide nanoparticles and electrochemical sensing of aromatic alcohols in polluted wastewater
Angelo Ferlazzo, University of Catania |
11:10-11:30 | | coffee break |
11:30-11:50 | | Utilizing contact lens-TiO2 Nanocomposites for sustainable wastewater remediation
Ernestino Lufrano, University of Catania |
11:50-12:10 | | Creative management of waste from production of sugar - glycine betaine as the future for the agrochemicals and surfactants market
Michał Niemczak, Poznan University of Technology |
12:10-12:30 | | Fluka Monte-Carlo simulations of Neutron Detection for Fusion Reactors
Alfio Samuele Mancuso, University of Catania |
12:30-12:50 | | New lidocaine derivatives showing antimicrobial activity as new APIs with low environmental impact
Adriana Olejniczak, Poznan University of Technology |
12:50-14:30 | | lunch break |
14:30-14:50 | | Exploring the Nanoscale Electromechanical Properties of Lead-free Thin Films and Nanostructures for Energy Harvesting Applications
Philippe Leclère, University of Mons |
14:50-15:10 | | Cu Nanoparticles by Laser Ablation in Liquid for green hydrogen production
Cristiano Lo Po', University of Catania |
15:10-15:30 | | Design of porous carbon electrodes for energy storage systems
Amelia Klimek, Poznan University of Technology |
15:30-15:50 | | Iron Oxide based Nanocomposites for sustainable fertilization
Vanna Torrisi, University of Catania |
15:50-16:10 | | Photocatalysts for Green Hydrogen Production: Electrochemical and Morphological Study
Gabriela García-Basté, University of Cantabria |
16:10-16:30 | | coffee break |
16:30-16:50 | | Intrinsic Doping and Ageing of Sputter Deposited In2O3 thin films
Andrea Lo Mastro, University of Catania |
16:50-17:10 | | Magnetic nanoparticles with green surface modifications for the efficient capture of polyethylene microplastics
Daniel Aragón, University of Cantabria |
17:10-17:30 | | Photocatalytic Thermoplastic Coatings Layered onto Cement Surfaces for Gaseous Pollutants Abatement
Giulia Raciti, University of Catania |
17:30-17:40 | Closing works |
17:40 | |
18:00 | Free time, autonomous dinner |
