2nd REUNICE Doctoral Summer School Catania 1-5 July 2024

Download PDF

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 address

Prof. Cristina Satriano, REUNICE scientific coordinator

Prof. Gianluca Cicala, vice Director DICAR

Prof. Lucia Zappalà, Deputy Rector Internationalization

Prof. 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 COcapture 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

shuttle transfer from Piazza Repubblica (https://maps.app.goo.gl/RJSBf5aiHwwjFhpw5) to Scuola Superiore Catania (https://maps.app.goo.gl/jZmDyW8pX3QkQBqV6)

13:00-14:30

Registration + Lunch break

14:30-14:45

Welcome

14:45-15:40

Invited keynote 
IK1

Materials and systems for green hydrogen production and storage: challenges and opportunities
Sabrina SartoriUniversity of Oslo

15:40-17:30

poster
P1

Application of aluminium-coated membranes for the immobilization of enzymes: model reactions for the evaluation of enzyme activity
Aleksandra RybakPoznan University of Technology

poster
P2

Solid-state modification of poly(butylene terephthalate) with a photoreactive Cinnamamide monomer
Jacques Kevin Wandji, University of Mons

poster
P3

Novel multimetallic complexes as precursors for fluoride functional materials
Claudia BarbagalloUniversity of Catania

poster
P4

Single-Ion Counting with an Ultra-Thin-Membrane Silicon Carbide Sensor for Quantum Applications
Enrico SangregorioUniversity of Catania

poster
P5

Boron doped Zinc Oxide thin film as ETL alternative candidate in Perovskite single-junction solar cell
Fiorella TringaliUniversity of Catania

poster
P6

250 µm thick detectors for neutron detection: design, electrical characteristics, and detector performances
Gabriele TrovatoUniversity of Catania

poster
P7

Earth-abundant nanostructures for energy storage applications
Maria Chiara SpadaroUniversity of Catania

poster
P8

Work function evaluation of thin films for solar cells by Ambient Pressure Photoemission
Vanna Torrisi, University of Catania

poster
P9

Manufacture and optimisation of ZnO-based high-frequency transducers
Reda AitayadUniversité Polytechnique Hauts-de-France

poster
P10

Can surface-active ionic liquids based on caprylic acid be a green alternative to surfactants in detergent production?
Marta WojcieszakPoznan University of Technology

poster
P11

Enzymatic membrane reactor supported with ionic liquid as an efficient platform for removal of estrogens
Oliwia DegórskaPoznan University of Technology

poster
P12

Mechanochemical Synthesis as a Proecological Approach of Production of MOF-type materials 
Weronika Badzińska,  Poznan University of Technology

poster
P13

Synthesis of modern hydrogel polymer electrolytes
Wiktoria ŻyłaPoznan University of Technology

poster
P14

Mechanism of aqueous electrolyte uptake by the hydrophilic lignin gel and its application as electrolyte for supercapacitor
Ameila KlimekPoznan University of Technology

poster
P15

Ionic liquids comprising alkyl betainate cation and iodosulfuron-methyl anion as novel effective herbicides with reduced environmental impact 
Adriana Olejniczak,  Poznan University of Technology

poster
P16

Interaction of surfactants of natural origin with phospholipid membrane 
Adam GrzywaczykPoznan University of Technology

poster
P17

Precipitation of Platinum Group Metal Nanoparticles in Bioinspired Systems
Wiktoria Stachowicz,Poznan University of Technology

poster
P18

Impact of potentially protective agents on lactic acid bacteria in probiotic formulations 
Natalia BurlagaPoznan University of Technology

poster
P19

Perovskite-based surfaces as photoanodes for an enhanced solar-driven CO2 reduction to formate 
Jose Antonio Abarca, University of Cantabria

poster
P20

Potential integration of osmotic pumps and magnetic nanoparticles in the development of novel drug delivery systems
David Navarro Tumar,  University of Cantabria

poster
P21

Valorization of polluted biomass waste for the fabrication of Gas Diffusion Electrodes for CO2 electroreduction to formate
Iker Uriarte-Porres, University of Cantabria

poster
P22

Photoelectrochemical conversion of CO2 with perovskite-based materials
Mario Alonso Muñoz,  University of Cantabria

poster
P23

Enhancing Electrochemical CO2 Reduction: Improved Performance of a Three-Compartment Reactor for Formic Acid Production
Mario Coz-CruzUniversity of Cantabria

poster
P24

Sustainable technologies for the extraction and separation of strategic raw materials for lithium-ion batteries: an innovative development.
Nerea García Gómez,  University of Cantabria

poster
P25

Ni-decorated CaTiO3/WO3/BiVO4 layered photoanodes for
photoelectrochemical applications
Sara CrespoUniversity of Cantabria

poster
P26

Evaluation of photoexcited charge carriers of CdS/TiO2 heterojunction for photocatalytic hydrogen production
Gabriela García BastéUniversity of Cantabria

poster
P27

Sodium alginate surface-modified magnetic materials for microplastics separation
Daniel Aragón, University of Cantabria

poster
P28

Synthesis and multi-scale characterization of Zinc Oxide Nanowires
Imen BenkhaledUniversity of Mons

poster
P29

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 NickmilderUniversity of Mons

poster
P30

Synthesis of New Biocompatible Materials Based on Alginic Acid with Antibacterial Activity
Erika SacculloUniversity of Catania

poster
P31

Root-associated microorganisms for optimizing biological control in tomato
Mariangela Milordo, University of Catania

poster
P32

Nanostructuration of GaN: A Promising Route to Quantum Single-Photon Sources
Antouman SallahUniversity of Catania

poster
P33

Enhancing Energy Consumption Forecasting Accuracy through Automated Machine Learning
Francesco ZitoUniversity of Catania

poster
P34

Frontiers in nanomedicine: unlocking wound healing potentials with PVP capped gold and silver nanoparticles and nanorods
Alice FotiUniversity of Catania

poster
P35

Spin orbit coupling effects in a graphene Josephson junction
Federico BonaseraUniversity of Catania

poster
P36

Circuit Quantum Electrodynamics with two-dimensional materials-based devices
Vincenzo VarricaUniversity of Catania

poster
P37

Fully integrated galvanic isolation interface in GaN technology
Katia SamperiUniversity of Catania

poster
P38

Towards sustainable polyester resins: from vitrimerization to bio-based additives for a greener thermoset and composite manufacturing
Giuliana RizzoUniversity of Catania

17:40

shuttle transfer from Scuola Superiore (https://maps.app.goo.gl/jZmDyW8pX3QkQBqV6) to Monastero Benedettini (https://maps.app.goo.gl/PrX4udpj5o7EHEgi8)

18:00-20:00

Guided tour of Monastero Benedettini

20:15

Social dinner, city center (Idria Events Center)

 

 

 

 

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-

Shuttle transfer from Polo Tecnologico, Via S. Sofia, 102, 95123 Catania CT (https://maps.app.goo.gl/5mw9B5E7euWw1gsR9) to Piazza Repubblica (https://maps.app.goo.gl/RJSBf5aiHwwjFhpw5)

19:30-

Free time, autonomous dinner

 

 

 

 

05-Jul
(common programme with the Workshop)

09:00

Shuttle transfer from Piazza Repubblica (https://maps.app.goo.gl/RJSBf5aiHwwjFhpw5) to Scuola Superiore Catania (https://maps.app.goo.gl/jZmDyW8pX3QkQBqV6)

09:30-10:10

invited Talk
IT3

Nature-mimicking intelligent micro/nanorobots
Mario UrsoUniversity of Catania

10:10-10:30

Oral
O13

Facile synthesis of sulfurized MoO3 nanostructures from industrial waste powder for energy storage application
Federico UrsinoUniversity of Catania

10:30-10:50

Oral
O14

On the Electromechanical Properties of Hybrid Piezolectric Nanocomposites by Scanning Probe Microscopy
Pierre NickmilderUniversity of Mons

10:50-11:10

Oral
O15

Impact of rare earth doping in transition metal oxide nanoparticles and electrochemical sensing of aromatic alcohols in polluted wastewater
Angelo FerlazzoUniversity of Catania

11:10-11:30

 

coffee break

11:30-11:50

Oral
O16

Utilizing contact lens-TiO2 Nanocomposites for sustainable wastewater remediation
Ernestino LufranoUniversity of Catania

11:50-12:10

Oral
O17

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

Oral
O18

Fluka Monte-Carlo simulations of Neutron Detection for Fusion Reactors
Alfio Samuele Mancuso,  University of Catania

12:30-12:50

Oral
O19

New lidocaine derivatives showing antimicrobial activity as new APIs with low environmental impact
Adriana OlejniczakPoznan University of Technology

12:50-14:30

 

lunch break

14:30-14:50

Oral
O20

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

Oral
O21

Cu Nanoparticles by Laser Ablation in Liquid for green hydrogen production
Cristiano Lo Po'University of Catania

15:10-15:30

Oral
O22

Design of porous carbon electrodes for energy storage systems
Amelia Klimek, Poznan University of Technology

15:30-15:50

Oral
O23

Iron Oxide based Nanocomposites for sustainable fertilization
Vanna TorrisiUniversity of Catania

15:50-16:10

Oral
O24

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

Oral
O25

Intrinsic Doping and Ageing of Sputter Deposited In2O3 thin films
Andrea Lo Mastro, University of Catania

16:50-17:10

Oral
O26

Magnetic nanoparticles with green surface modifications for the efficient capture of polyethylene microplastics
Daniel AragónUniversity of Cantabria

17:10-17:30

Oral
O27

Photocatalytic Thermoplastic Coatings Layered onto Cement Surfaces for Gaseous Pollutants Abatement
Giulia Raciti, University of Catania

17:30-17:40

Closing works

17:40

Shuttle transfer from Scuola Superiore Catania (https://maps.app.goo.gl/jZmDyW8pX3QkQBqV6) to Piazza Repubblica (https://maps.app.goo.gl/RJSBf5aiHwwjFhpw5)

18:00

Free time, autonomous dinner

 

SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE

  • Prof. Gianluca Cicala – Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture - UNICT
  • Prof. Salvatore Greco – Department of Economy and Business - UNICT

ORGANIZING COMMITTEE

  • Prof. Cristina Satriano – Department of Chemical Sciences – UNICT REUNICE Project Leader
  • Pasqua Meccariello - UNICT REUNICE Project Officer
  • Dr. Valentina Barbagallo - UNICT International Relation Office, Coordinator
  • Gabriele Bonfanti, Giorgio Lo Cicero, Francesco Messina - UNICT EUNICE Student Board
  • Marco Insolia - UNICT Information Systems Area - (ASI)
  • Rosario Agrò - UNICT Third Mission Area (ATM)