The vision of this section is to tailor materials and interfaces at the nanoscale to deliver sustainable and multifunctional solutions. Specifically, we are interested in understanding how properties at the nanoscale affect the macroscale, for instance in terms of tribological performances. Two-dimensional materials such as MXene are ideal model system to perform this multiscale investigation. We employ advance techniques to describe tribological mechanisms at the nanoscale (e.g., atomic force microscopy), mesoscale (e.g., surface forces apparatus) and macroscale (e.g., tribometer), and compare the results with colleagues working on simulations (atomic scale). In addition, advanced surface analytics (transmission electron microscopy, Raman, low energy ion scattering, X-ray investigations) are used to perform tribochemical studies. Finally, material design includes strategies to address sustainability challenges (e.g., sustainable synthesis of 2D materials) by exploring complex phenomena taking place at solid/liquid interfaces (e.g., nanobubbles).

Illustration of layered blue materials with molecules, a magnifying glass highlighting atomic structure, and arrows representing scientific analysis and electron flow.

© Pierluigi Bilotto

Electrochemical synthesis of MXenes demonstrated using pulsed voltammetry methods to form surface nanobubbles which help the electrode to sustain the synthesis

Scientific diagrams show protein interactions with a lipid membrane, AFM images of protein on the surface, and a graph of force versus distance with charge regulation data.

Example of research activities carried out

Schematic showing a blue counterbody sliding over a rough substrate. Key processes: proton transfer, oxidation, abrasion, and microcrack formation.

Tribological (macroscale) behaviour of electrochemically synthesized MXenes described by combining experimental and simulation (nanoscale) data

Current PostDoc theses and dissertation topics

Past Research Activities

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