ENSEMBLE

ENgineered SElf-organized Multi-component structures with novel controllaBLe Electromagnetic functionalities

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 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'Growth of eutectics is recognized as a paradigm for pattern-forming. Self-organised structures of size scales reaching down to submicron and nano scale regime emerge due to the interplay of chemical diffusion and capillarity. The fundamentally novel CONCEPT of the present proposal is to utilize - for the first time - the eutectic self-organisation mechanism for preparation of multi-component and multi-scale structures with controlled physicochemical and structural properties, with geometrical motifs capable of generating novel, predictable and controllable electromagnetic functionalities. This requires a deeper understanding of factors influencing eutectic self-organisation mechanism on a submicron/nanoscale. Accordingly, the main topic and activity of the present proposal is to generate new knowledge of the mechanism of eutectic self-organisation on this scale, by combining state-of-the-art experimental and modelling techniques. This new understanding of the underlying processes of eutectic self-organisation will then be used for the prediction and design of self-organised multi-component and multi-scale structures with controlled physicochemical and structural properties. This will be combined with the electromagnetic design of complex structures which can generate revolutionary electromagnetic functionalities. This will result in: a) the ability to predict the occurrence of patterns in eutectic systems, b) knowledge on how to design nanopatterned materials with controlled physicochemical and structural properties, c) methodologies to design and to fabricate self-organised multi-component and multi-scale structures with revolutionary electromagnetic functionalities, and d) the experimental realisation of these self-organised systems. The planned research is expected to open new horizons for utilizing self-organised structures in the development of the next generation of materials for photonic application that will exhibit revolutionary properties.'

Introduzione (Teaser)

EU-funded scientists have for the first time demonstrated the control of a special type of nano-scale self-assembly to produce novel electromagnetic functionalities. Superlenses and solar energy collectors are among the expected beneficiaries.

Descrizione progetto (Article)

Self-assembly and self-organisation of molecules and materials are governed by a complex interplay of physical and chemical properties of the system. Control of such self-organisation, particularly at the nano scale, has become an important endeavour in materials development for novel functionalities and new devices.

Eutectic growth characterised by the cooperative formation of two solid phases from a liquid is recognised as a novel paradigm for pattern formation. However, until now, it had not been used for the controlled production of geometrical motifs with novel and predictable electromagnetic functionalities. Such control required much deeper understanding of the underlying processes of eutectic organisation.

The EU-funded project ENSEMBLE developed the necessary modelling tools, technologies and materials to support light manipulation in solar cells, super lenses and other applications.

ENSEMBLE's impact on both research and industry cannot be underestimated. The numerous modelling tools developed are applicable to both basic and applied research. Many of the materials and technologies are close to marketability and patent applications have already been submitted for two manufacturing processes. Close collaboration among partners has resulted in the integration of ENSEMBLE outcomes into numerous other research projects in which partners are or will be participating.

Overall, ENSEMBLE has successfully spurred the global research community into active investigation and control of eutectic growth. The novel electromagnetic functionalities achieved will ensure the advent of amazing new devices for light manipulation in the near future.