General information about Master and Bachelor projects on the PCF group
The PCF group provides opportunities for master and bachelor projects in the context of physical chemistry of solid-liquid interfaces. We are interested in microscopic physical and chemical mechanisms governing macroscopic reactivity, mass and charge transfer as well as wettability at these interfaces. In most projects, our goal is to identify the fundamental science behind technological applications and to propose potential new strategies in order to improve the latter. Specific areas of interest include:
a) Photo- and electrocatalysis. Here we focus on a quantitative understanding of the coupling between properties of the solid surface and the electric double layer in the adjacent liquid.
Specific project(s):
· In situ AFM study of cocatalyst deposition on faceted on semiconductor nanoparticles
b) CO2 fixation and separation. Here we have to main research lines. One focuses on the on the formation of carbonate minerals (e.g. MgCO3 or CaCO3) as a strategy to permanently fix CO2; the other focuses on the separation of bio-gas into CO2 and bio-methane to reduce the usage of natural gas.
Specific project(s):
· Influence of additives on olivine reactivity and surface alteration layers
· Tracking the dissolution of olivine micro grains
c) Responsive polymer coatings for sensing and reduced friction. This research line focuses on the interaction of functional polymer brushes and other surface coatings with fluids to detect their presence and/or to act as a lubricant for the reduction of friction and wear.
Specific project(s):
· Advanced grease lubrication based on liquid-infused surfaces
d) Soft Matter and Interfaces. Here we focus on small particles dispersed in a liquid medium (e.g. suspensions, emulsions), typically at high concentrations where the colloidal interactions give rise to a microstructure and a complex rheology.
Specific project(s):
· Colloidal self-assembly via electrostatics
Currently available bachelor assignments: