materials science - chalmers€¦ · residual stress fields that causes distorsions after...

This booklet provides 51 brief presentations of the researchin the Area of Advance – Materials Science in Gothenburg

OCT 2011NO1.

A CHALMERS AREA OF ADVANCE AT CHALMERS AND GU BIOMATERIALS

Materials Science

his booklet provides brief presentations of the research in the Area of Advance – Materials Science in Gothenburg, a strong scientific community with special governmental funding. It includes research in materials science at Chalmers and at the Division of Biomaterials at Gothenburg University (GU). To provide a flavor of the activities we present the academic staff at Chalmers and GU Biomaterials engaged in the Area of Advance. The Area of Advance is based on five profile areas: Materials for health, Materials

for energy applications, Sustainable materials, Experimental methods, and Theory and modeling. The first three profile areas are directed towards applications and grand challenges for the society while the two latter are generic, laying the foundation for breakthroughs in materials science.

The researchers presented in the brochure are all active in one or more of the five profile areas. Together they perform cutting edge research with the aim to contribute to finding solutions to important challenges in the materials field such as:

• More materials must be based on renewable feedstock

• Construction materials must become lighter; lighter constructions save both energy and materials

• New and improved ways for supply, transport, storage and conversion of energy require innovative new materials

• Functional materials, i.e. materials that utilize the native properties and functions of their own to achieve an intelligent action, will become more important

• Regenerative medicine will put high demands on the materials involving both mechanical aspects and functionality

The aim of the Area of Advance is to combine scientific excellence and relevance for society. It stretches from education on the master and PhD levels to innovation. It includes five departments at Chalmers and the Division of Biomaterials at Gothenburg University. There are several centers of excellence in materials science operating under the umbrella of the Area of Advance – Materials Science and these centers normally have long term joint funding from the Swedish government and from a consortium of industries. The Centers for Catalysis, High Temperature Corrosion, Railway Mechanics, Supramolecular Biomaterials, and BIOMATCELL, as well as the Wallenberg Wood Science Center are all strong entities with ten years or longer funding.

Gothenburg, August 2011

Krister HolmbergDirector

Aleksandar MaticCo-Director

Peter ThomsenResponsible at GU

T

Johan Ahlström Engineering metals for demanding applications – how to evaluate their performance? ......................................... 09

Martin Andersson Nanomaterials for Biological Applications ........................................................................................................................................... 09

Mats Andersson Polymer Technology ....................................................................................................................................................................................................10

Hans-Olof Andrén Detailed microstructure of materials .........................................................................................................................................................10

Per-Anders Carlsson Heterogeneous catalysis .............................................................................................................................................................................. 11

Alexandre Dmitriev Functional optoelectronic nanomaterials ............................................................................................................................................. 11

Magnus Ekh Material mechanics .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 12

Annika Enejder Molecular Microscopy .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 12

Sten Eriksson Inorganic Materials – focus on complex oxides .......................................................................................................................................... 13

Lena K.L. Falk Microstructures of Inorganic Materials ............................................................................................................................................................ 13

Mark Foreman Industrial Materials Recycling and Nuclear Chemistry ......................................................................................................................... 14

Paul Gatenholm Structure property relationship in biopolymer based materials ................................................................................................... 14

Stanislaw Gubanski High Voltage Engineering............................................................................................................................................................................... 15

Anders Hellman Use of computational methods to find sustainable ways to produce and utilize energy ......................................... 15

Anne-Marie Hermansson Microstructure design of soft materials ................................................................................................................................. 16

Krister Holmberg Surfactants and biomolecules at interfaces .......................................................................................................................................... 16

Per Hyldgaard Theory of materials binding and function ....................................................................................................................................................... 17

Hanna Härelind Ingelsten Lean NOx reduction ............................................................................................................................................................................. 17

Fredrik Höök Small-scale sensors and cell-membrane manipulation for life science applications .........................................................18

Patrik Johansson Energy Related Materials ................................................................................................................................................................................... 18

Alexey Kalabukhov Physics of functional oxide films and heterostructures ........................................................................................................... 19

Maths Karlsson Structure-Property Relationships in Ceramic Materials for Clean Energy Technologies .........................................19

Uta Klement Materials Characterization ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 20

Anette Larsson Polymers and controlled release ....................................................................................................................................................................... 20

Ragnar Larsson Computational continuum-atomistic modeling ....................................................................................................................................... 21

Johan Liu Nanomaterials and processes for thermal management in microsystems ...................................................................................... 21

Anna Martinelli Ionic liquid derived materials ................................................................................................................................................................................. 22

Aleksandar Matic Soft Matter Physics ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 22

Bengt-Erik Mellander Innovative energy conversion devices ............................................................................................................................................. 23

Kasper Moth-Poulsen Design and synthesis of new self-assembled molecular materials .......................................................................... 23

Stefan Norberg Disordered Crystalline Materials ....................................................................................................................................................................... 24

Lars Nordstierna Controlled release from microparticles, paint and coatings ...................................................................................................... 24

Mats Norell Engineering metals for power conversion systems and surface analysis of their degradation.................................... 25

Lars Nyborg Surface and Interface Engineering of PM materials and Advanced Alloys .............................................................................. 25

Magnus Nydén Soft matter structure design for controlling diffusion and flow .................................................................................................. 26

Eva Olsson The functional structure of nanostructured materials ................................................................................................................................. 26

Louise Olsson Emission cleaning from vehicles using heterogeneous catalysis ................................................................................................ 27

Anders Palmquist Osseointegration: from macro to nano .................................................................................................................................................... 27

Anders Palmqvist Functional Materials Chemistry ..................................................................................................................................................................... 28

Mikael Ringdahl Polymeric materials and composites............................................................................................................................................................. 28

Jonas Ringsberg Lightweight Structures and Material Characterisation .................................................................................................................. 29

Per Rudquist Liquid Crystals ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 29

Rodney Rychwalski Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites ..................................................................................................................................... 30

Elsebeth Schröder Atomic scale theory for sparse matter................................................................................................................................................... 30

Magnus Skoglundh Emission Control and Energy-related Catalysis ............................................................................................................................ 31

Jan-Erik Svensson Materials chemistry .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 31

Jan Swenson Physics of soft and biological materials............................................................................................................................................................ 32

Pentti Tengvall Biomaterials ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 32

Göran Wahnström Materials Modelling and Simulation .......................................................................................................................................................... 33

Shumin Wang Semiconductor heterostructures........................................................................................................................................................................... 33

Michael Zäch Nanomaterials for Sustainable Energy .............................................................................................................................................................. 34

Materials Science at Chalmers and GU Biomaterials 9

and speed up their integration in tissue and to be able to control the release of certain drugs. In this research field we are collaborating with leading surgeons to perform preclinical studies. • Nanotoxicology: Major concerns have recently been directed towards the possible toxicity of nanomaterials. Within this research field we are focusing on how the properties of nanoparticles, such as size, shape, crystallinity and surface chemistry effects their toxicity and ability to penetrate biological barriers such as the skin.

Martin AnderssonAssociate Professor

MSc Chalmers University of Technology

PhD Chalmers University of Technology

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 29 66

Email: [email protected]

Johan AhlströmDocent



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 15 32


Engineering metals for demanding

applications – how to evaluate their performance?

Some properties of engineering metals are inherent from the ele-ments they are composed of, for example stiffness and density. Other properties like strength and hardness can be tailored during material and component manufacturing. For estimates of the per-formance in the application, it is important to evaluate the material characteristics in the component and also consider the stability of properties during service, which often comprises high mechani-cal and thermal loads. A combination of testing and modelling is needed for the evaluation. The experimental work includes studies of monotonic and cyclic deformation behaviour and its relation to microstructure, temperature and strain rate. The results are used both for physi-cal interpretation of the material behaviour and used as input for numerical modelling of property development both in production

Nanomaterials for Biological Applications

We utilize nanochemistry to design nanomaterials for biological applications. Even though the field originates from the field of chemistry, the subject is highly multidisciplinary including biol-ogy, medicine and physics. Our research interests are:• Bio-sensing: We are working on the development of a bio-sensing device, which utilizes ion channels as sensing elements. The device is based on a supported lipid bilayer that is covalently linked to a mesoporous support. • Biomimetic synthesis: Inspired by nature, we are mimicking the natural bottom up fabrication approach of synthesizing structures on the nanometer length scale. In specific, we are synthesizing various types of calcium phosphates, titania and silica having designed nano-sized features.• Regenerative medicine: In the field of regenerative medicine we are focusing on nanostructured implant surfaces both to increase

and in service. Examples of research topics include:• Railway wheel and rails steels exposed to a combination of ther-mal and mechanical loads.• Aluminium engine blocks with cast-in, cast iron liners yielding residual stress fields that causes distorsions after machining.

Selected Publications

1. Journal of Engineering Materials and Technology, 133, 021019-1– 021019-11 (2011). 2. Materials Science and Technology, 27 (3), 648–654 (2011). 3. Metallurgical and Materials Transactions, A, 40 (7), 1557–1567 (2009).


1. Langmuir, 26 (22), 16630–16633 (2010). 2. J. Biomed. Mater. Res., A, 87A (2), 299–307 (2008). 3. Langmuir, 23 (6), 2924-2927 (2007).

Autoradiography image of a hydroxyapatite Ca-45 nanoparticle coated implant in bone.

Fatigue life of two wheel steels, before and after simulated friction heating.

Materials Science at Chalmers and GU Biomaterials Materials Science at Chalmers and GU Biomaterials10 11

ration with atomistic modelling at Chalmers, Sandvik and Seco Tools, grain and phase boundary segregation is studied with atomic resolution (Paper 2, Figure). 3. Corrosion and hydrogen pick-up of zirconium alloys. In collaboration with Westinghouse, Vattenfall, Radiation Safety Authority and OKG, we study the mechanisms of oxide growth in water reactors on zirconium fuel cladding materials. A theory of crack formation in the oxide was recently proposed (Paper 3).

Hans-Olof AndrénProfessor



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 33 09


Polymer Technology

A large part of the research in polymer technology is directed towards polymer electronics. A major advantage with polymer electronics is the ease by which the semiconducting polymers can be deposited. It is no more difficult than printing a color magazine! The idea of printed electronics is realized today. Not on a com-mercial full scale production, but on an advanced research level and the progress depends strongly on the development of new and better polymers. The aim with the research is mainly focused on the design and synthesis of new conjugated polymers for efficient and stable elec-tronics such as solar cells, photo diodes, light-emitting diodes, lasers, thin film field effect transistors, electrochemical devices, sensors and to relate the chemical structure of the polymer to the device performance. If successful, this research is not only scientifically interesting but can also result in for example cheap

Detailed microstructure of materials

We work with microscopy and microanalysis of primarily metal-lic materials using high-resolution methods such as atom probe tomography (APT) in combination with electron microscopy. 1. Design of new martensitic chromium steels for steam power plants. Today’s steels have limited creep and oxidation resist-ance. In collaboration with the Technical University of Denmark, Siemens and DONG we explore new ways of hardening by boron additions (Paper 1) and nanometer-sized Z-phase precipitates. The aim is to increase the service temperature from 600 to 650ºC. This would increase the thermal efficiency by several percent and mean very large savings in CO² emissions, since 70% of the world’s electricity is generated in fossil fueled steam power plants. 2. Interface structure and chemistry in cemented carbides. Inter-faces control e.g. sintering and plastic deformation behaviour of cemented carbides used for metal cutting operations. In collabo-

Mats AnderssonProfessor



Phone: + 46 (0) 31 772 34 01


solar cells and energy efficient lightning, which would be very beneficial for the environment and mankind. Another central part of the research in polymer technology is focused on bulk polymers. One important task within this field is focused on developing isolating materials for high voltage cables, mainly in cooperation with different companies in the Gothenburg region.


1. Advanced Materials, 22 (46), 5240–5244 (2010). 2. Advanced Materials, 22 (20), E100–E116 (2010). 3. Advanced Materials, 15 (12), 988–991 (2003).


1. Metall. Mater. Trans., A, 42, 940–951 (2011). 2. Acta Mater., 58, 3888–3894 (2010). 3. 16th Int. Symp. Zirconium in the Nuclear Industry, ASTM, in press (2010).

are characterized by the strong absorption and scattering of the incoming light, along with strongly enhanced electromagnetic fields in the direct proximity of the nanostructures. The former is utilized in studies of fundamental photonics (light-matter inter-actions) and photovoltaics. The latter allows for photochemistry enhancement and extremely high sensitivity towards the changes in the surrounding refractive index that serves as a basis for highly demanded label-free bio(chemo)sensing applications.

Alexandre DmitrievAssistant Professor

MSc Rostov State University

PhD EPFL, Switzerland / Max Planck

Institute for Solid State Research, Stuttgart

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 51 77


Heterogeneous catalysis

My research concerns design and studies of new catalyst-based concepts for environmental and sustainable energy applications including fundamental aspects on physicochemical processes in heterogeneous catalytic systems. I have adopted a research approach that balances chemistry, physics and chemical engineer-ing of both experimental and theoretical character suitable for heterogeneous catalysis research. I strive for cross-disciplinary collaborations as to join methods from traditionally different dis-ciplines with the overall aim to advance the field of transient in situ studies of catalytic reaction systems. This as to better under-stand mechanisms and basic principles behind activity, selectivity and durability for generic as well as more specialised catalytic processes. One recent example concerns characterisation of struc-ture-function relationships in methane oxidation over supported noble metals studied primarily at large-scale European research

Functional optoelectronic nanomaterials

Our current research explores functional bottom-up low-dimen-sional nanomaterials – with highlight on nanophotonics, optical label-free biosensing, enhanced photochemistry/photovoltaics and nanomagnetism. Low-dimensional refers to ultra-thin nano-structured layers that are patterned on solid supports. Bottom-up emphasizes that such nanomaterials are produced by self-assembly driven nanofabrication, in particular by the method developed by us at Chalmers – hole-mask colloidal lithography, HCL. Particular focus is on nanomaterials that support surface plas-mon polaritons (or localized surface plasmons, LSP) – collective oscillations of the charge carriers, induced by the incoming electromagnetic radiation (thus optoelectronic nanomaterials). The excited LSP resonances exist in confined geometries – like fabricated with colloidal lithography nanoarchitectures (arrays of nanodisks, nanoellipses, nanocones and many others) – and

Per-Anders CarlssonAssociate Professor



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 29 24


facilities (ESRF/Grenoble, Petra III/Hamburg and MAX-lab/Lund). Time-resolved mass spectrometry with synchronous x-ray absorption and infrared spectroscopy or surface x-ray diffraction have been used in situ during transient conditions to correlate activity/selectivity with chemical state and physical structure of the catalyst surface as well as adsorbate composition.


1. Nano Letters, 11, 2765 (2011) . 2. Nano Letters, 8, 3893 (2008) . 3. Advanced Materials, 19, 4297 (2007).


1. J. Phys. Chem., C, 115, 944–951 (2011). 2. Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 8, 2703–2706 (2006). 3. Top. Catal., 52, 1962–1966 (2009).

WC/(Ta,W)C/Co with submonolayer Co (blue) segregation to boundaries. APT image.

Magnetoplasmonic nanoferromagnets and Yagi-Uda nanoantennas (left); sensing (right) .

Solutions of different conjugated polymers designed for the use in solar cells.

Heterogeneous catalysis involves several research areas.


3D neuronal networks, and (iii) adhesion and interaction of living cells with artificial lipid bilayers. Images show: Upper right; CARS and SHG 3D image of neuron-like cells (orange, CARS) grown in a cellulose scaffold (blue, SHG) stimulated with NGF (70 x 70 x 10 µm). Below; the adhesion pattern formed in the immediate contact between fibroblast cells and a positively charged lipid bilayer.

Annika EnejderAssociate Professor

MSc Lund University of Technology

PhD Lund University

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 38 52


Material mechanics

My research area is modeling of the mechanical behavior of the cyclic behavior of metals. Current research projects deal with modeling of applications such as steel components in the railway industry and superalloy components in gas-turbines subjected to thermo-mechanical fatigue loading. A focus area is the development of macroscopic models for steel that should capture, e.g., the cyclic ratcheting behavior and, for large strains, the evolution of anisotropy. Similar models can be used for superalloys subjected the high temperatures. But in this case we must also consider difficulties such as creep effects and the variation of temperature. Another focus area is multi-scale models for polycrystalline materials. In this modeling approach we typically model the grains by using crystal plasticity models and then use computational homogenization to obtain the macroscopic response. A specific

Molecular Microscopy

As an important instrument in the design of innovative materials with tailored surface and material properties, we develop and apply a new category of high-resolution microscopy techniques (CARS, SHG, THG, TERS ...) for tomographic, soft-matter imaging of the underlying macromolecular architecture by mapping inherent molecular vibrations of polymers, biomolecules (lipids, carbo-hydrates, structural proteins etc.) and metallic nanostructures. In far-field and near-field (with a scanning tip) modes a resolution of 300 nm and 30 nm, respectively, is achieved. It opens up for unique studies, where molecular distributions and processes can be studied at nanoscopic level and in their natural context without the impact of bulky fluorophores or harsh sample preparations. Examples of ongoing studies are (i) controlled release of active agents from polymer capsules, (ii) stem cell growth and differ-entiation in biomimicking materials for replacement tissues and

Magnus EkhAssociate Professor



Phone: +46 (0)31 772 34 79


challenge has been to capture the Hall-Petch effect. This goal has been targeted by developing gradient crystal plasticity models.


1. Computers and Structures, 84, 1002–1011 (2006). 2. Acta Materialia, 55 (16), 5359–5368 (2007). 3. Acta Mechanica, 218 (1–2), 103–113 (2011).


1. PNAS, 104, 14658–14663 (2007). 2. J. of Biomed. Opt., 16, 021115 (2011). 3. J. Phys. Chem., DOI: 10.1021/jp2009012 (2011).

and chemical behaviour of ceramic matrix composites, including nanocomposite materials, has been investigated, and the role of the internal interfaces in these materials has been addressed. My current research interest also includes the structure and proper-ties of polycrystalline cubic boron nitride materials and cemented carbides for cutting tool applications.

Lena K. L. FalkProfessor



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 33 21


Inorganic Materials – focus on complex oxides

The group has a long-standing tradition of research on complex oxides with main focus on perovskite and perovskite related compounds. Synthesis and development of preparative methods, and advanced structural characterisation are key activities. We are experienced in preparing high temperature superconducting cuprates, ferroic and magnetic materials as well as magnetolectric systems. Today a large part of our effort is devoted to exploring the emerging field of proton- and oxygen ion conducting materials, eventually for use as electrolytes in solid oxide fuel cells. Our aim is to acquire a better understanding of how oxygen and proton con-tent and local order can be linked to the ion conducting properties. This will help us to predict new systems, and act as feedback to the synthesis program. In-house laboratories include preparative facilities (e.g. solid

Microstructures of Inorganic Materials

My research is concerned with relationships between micro-structure and properties of, principally, hard structural materials. The research involves the application of different scanning and transmission electron microscopy techniques for imaging and microanalysis. The work covers three areas of material’s sci-ence: (i) development and stability of nano-/microstructure, (ii) toughening and strengthening mechanisms, and (iii) deformation mechanisms. The development of nano-/microstructure under dif-ferent processing and testing conditions is characterized by high resolution imaging and microanalysis, and the results are related to different parameters in the fabrication process and to the behaviour of the material under mechanical and thermal load. A significant part of the research has been concerned with the development of fine-scale microstructure during sintering and crystallisation processes in ceramic and glass-ceramic materials. The mechanical

Sten ErikssonProfessor

MPhil Gothenburg University

PhD Gothenburg University

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 28 57


state sintering, mechanical alloying, solution, sol-gel, and hydro-thermal methods), and x-ray diffractometers for studies of chemical reactions, phase transitions and subtle structural transitions. In addition we are involved in the upgrade of two neutron powder dif-fractometers at the large-scale facility ISIS, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, UK, and the design and implementation of a suite of sample environment cells. Unique in-situ studies are performed in the neutron beam to probe e.g. chemical reactions or fuel cell materials and batteries under real working conditions.


1. J. Mater. Sci., 39, 6655–6673 (2004). 2. J. Eur. Ceram. Soc., 29, 539–550 (2009). 3. J. Am. Ceram. Soc., 90 (5), 1566–1573 (2007).


1. Journal of Solid State Chemistry, 182, 2815–2821 (2009). 2. Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 450, 103–110 (2009). 3. Solid State Ionics, Volume 177, 1395–1403 (2006).

Instrumentation for far and near-field CARS/SHG/THG/TERS microscopy and images.

The residual intergranular glassy phase in a silicon nitride ceramic.

Accumulated plastic slip in an idealized polycrystal during shear loading.

An ideal cubic perovskite, space group Pm-3m.


bled into robust biocompatible materials. The bacterial cellulose blood vessel project is currently undergoing translation for clinical application. Collaboration with orthopaedic surgeons to develop scaffolds to grow cartilage, meniscus and bone is an additional aspect of the research. Recent projects involve transformation of wood based polymers such as hemicelluloses, cellulose and lignin into new generation of sustainable materials.

Paul GatenholmProfessor

BSc, Stockholm University

PhD, Chalmers University of Technology

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 34 07


Industrial Materials Recycling and Nuclear Chemistry

I hold the view that my goal as a chemist in Industrial Materials recycling is to “create new chemical processes for the recycling of that which is currently impossible (or difficult) to recycle”. An important part of my work is to devise methods of recycling dif-ficult materials without causing a loss of quality of the material being recycled. The substances which I am interested in the recycling of include metals; precious metals (silver, gold and platinum group metals), base metals such as nickel, rare metals such as the lanthanides and radioactive metals such as americium. I also have an interest in the recycling of organic compounds (such as polymers) and non-metals such as chlorine, bromine and other main group elements. In addition to the recycling work I have an interest in the decontamination of waste to allow its cheap disposal while safeguarding human health and the environment.

Structure property relationship

in biopolymer based materials

Biomimetic design requires an understanding of structure-property relationships at all length scales. The major interest is biomechani-cal behavior and cell response investigated by NMR. Structure and unique properties of biological materials such as bone, wood, cartilage, jelly-fish, and shells are the objects of my studies. In my research I use the principles of biomimetic design for the preparation of new materials using renewable building blocks. That includes biological fabrication through the use of enzymes, cells, and the coordination of biological systems. I am particularly interested in designing and preparing new biomate-rials which can replace or regenerate tissue and organs and have been working closely with cardiovascular surgeons to develop technology for the production of small calibre blood vessels. We use bacteria to spin nanocellulose fibrils which are assem-

Mark ForemanDr.

BSc ARCS London Imperial College

PhD Loughborough University

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 29 28


I am also involved in the Nuclear Chemistry section where I have an interest in a range of topics including the chemistry of serious reactor accidents, the organic chemistry of low and intermedi-ate level wastes (mainly isosaccharinic acids) and in advanced separations. I define nuclear chemistry as the chemistry associated with the nuclear fuel cycle, nuclear reactor operation, environmental radioactivity, radioactive waste, radiopharmaceuticals and other radioactive/nuclear technologies. My nuclear interests tend to be at the interface of this area with organic and inorganic chemistry.


1. Green Chemistry, 10, 825–826 (2008). 2. Solvent Extraction and Ion Exchange, 27, 97–106 (2009). 3. Polyhedron, 25, 888–900 (2006).


1. Applied Materials & Interfaces, in press (2011). 2. Biomacromolecules, 11 (3), 542–548 (2010). 3. Annals of Biomedical Engineering, 38 (8), 2475–2484 (2010).

Anders HellmanAssociate Professor

MSc Linköping University

PhD University of Gothenburg

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 56 11


High Voltage Engineering

We continuously seek innovative solutions within applications of different processes and materials in electro-technical industry, where material characterizations, simulations, technology and measurements are in focus. Three main areas dominate our activi-ties today, which include (i) applications of polymeric materials for insulation of high voltage apparatuses, especially for DC and high frequency stressed systems, (ii) simulations of electro-physical phenomena in dielectric and magnetic materials, as well as (iii) development of diagnostic measuring technologies for assessment of insulation state for prediction of its life time. Scientific and engineering problems are approached by combined experimental and theoretical methods and the research tasks are solved in a strong and multidisciplinary environment, including cooperation with other academic groups, with professional organizations like CIGRE and IEEE and with industrial partners in Sweden and

Use of computational methods to find

sustainable ways to produce and utilize energy

My long-term goal is to find new or improved ways of how to produce and utilize energy without severely affecting the environ-ment. Research areas that I am working in include surface science, heterogeneous catalysis and materials for energy applications. I use several different computational methods, such as, density functional theory calculations, molecular dynamics, Monte-Carlo techniques, and micro-kinetic models. These multiscale meth-ods allow a transfer our understanding of the different processes involved at the atomic level to the realm of our macroscopic world. For instance, the activation of gas-phase reactants on surfaces can be directly linked to the actual output of a catalyst.

Stanislaw GubanskiProfessor

MSc Technical University of Wroclaw

PhD Technical University of Wroclaw

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 16 16


internationally. Especially successful have been our contributions related to the applications of polymeric materials in outdoor envi-ronments and on the development of insulation diagnostics based on dielectric response measurements in frequency domain. In continuation, an area of special interest is in developing polymeric materials that can stand higher operating stresses for optimizing design of cable insulation. New solutions where the desired prop-erties can be achieved include polymeric materials containing nano-fillers and voltage stabilizers.


1. J. Phys. Chem., C, 115 (26), 12901 (2011). 2. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 131, 16636 (2009). 3. Physical Review Letters, 103, 146103 (2009).


1. Polymer Testing, 30, 43–49 (2011). 2. CIGRE Technical Brochure, No. 414, Paris, 1–57 (2010). 3. Ageing of Composites, Woodhead Publishing Ltd. and CRC Press, ISBN 978-1-84569-352-7, 421–447 (2008).

Nanocellulose biomaterial biosynthesized by bottom up fabrication process.

Reaction energy landscape of CO oxidation over metal-supported MgO.

A uranium complex of a BTBP, this complex relates to the recycling of metals.

Electric trees grown around a wire electrode in crosslinked polyethylene.


reusablility have been obtained in many cases. Interfaces are important for many enzymes. We have demon-strated that during the fat digestion process the lipase is pushed away from the triglyceride-water interface by one of the degrada-tion products, the monoglyceride, which is more interfacially active than the lipase itself. Recently we have studied trypsin entrapped in an alginate gel. We have found that the selectivity is dramati-cally changed when trypsin interacts with the alginate strands. We also study the action of trypsin on layer-by-layer structures made from oppositely charged polypeptides.

Krister HolmbergProfessor



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 29 69


Microstructure design of soft materials

My research is focused on microstructure design of soft materi-als to tailor properties such as mass transport and rheological behaviour. This is on of the cornerstones of the SOFT Microscopy Centre as well as the VINN Excellence Centre SuMo biomateri-als. The main model systems are single and composite physical gels of proteins and polysaccharides where the structure can be tailored by the kinetic balance of the mechanisms involved. This requires structure control over a wide range of length scales as well as time scales. Combinations of microscopy techniques are being used from high-resolution transmission electron micros-copy to state of the art confocal laser scanning microscopy. New techniques are being developed for 3D reconstruction as well as microscopy of transient phenomena under dynamic conditions. Examples of model systems are beta-lactoglobulin, pectin, gela-tine, carrageenan, gels as well as composite gels of proteins and

Surfactants and biomolecules at interfaces

Our group has a long tradition of studying amphiliphilic com-pounds. In recent years the focus has been on cleavable surfactants, gemini surfactants and surfactants based on amino acids as polar headgroup. We carry out synthesis of the surfactants and we study their self-assembly both in solution and at interfaces. We have recently started to explore amphiphilic silica nanoparticles as stabilizers for emulsions. Hydrophilic and hydrophobic chains are grafted on the silica surface. We synthesize mesoporous materials and use these as hosts for homogeneous catalysts. We have used this concept for rho-dium complexes to perform carbon-carbon coupling reactions and we have used the porous materials for entrapment of lipase and trypsin. We have also used a slurry of mesoporous material with the catalyst embedded in the pore walls for hydroperoxide oxidation of an alkene. Excellent results in terms of activity and

Anne-Marie HermanssonProfessor, Vice President


PhD Lund University

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 29 78


polysaccharides. On-going PhD and postdoc projects deals with effect of confinements on structure rearrangements, effects of heterogeneity and structure obstruction on diffusion and flow due to, in-situ measurements of structure formation and break-down and 3D reconstructions. Main collaborators are Eva Olsson, Niklas Lorén, Magnus Nydén, Stefan Gustafsson and Mats Stad-ing at Chalmers and SIK – The Swedish Institute for Food and Biotechnology.


1. Carbohydrate Polymers, 16, 297–320 (1991). 2. Food Hydrocolloids, 5, 523–540 (1992). 3. Macromolecules, 34, 8117-8128 (2001)


1. Langmuir, 26, 3077–3083 (2010). 2. Green Chem., 12, 1861–1869 (2010). 3. Langmuir, 26, 1983–1990 (2010).

Hanna Härelind IngelstenAssociate Professor


Lic. Eng. Chalmers University of Technology

Phone: +46 (0) 709 92 41 05


Theory of materials binding and function

Computational theory of condensed matter faces a sparse-matter challenge. There is a clear need to develop and deepen our quan-tum-physical insight on the binding in regions with low electron and atom densities, sparse regions where the ubiquitous van der Waals (vdW) forces contribute significantly to cohesion and func-tion. Sparse-matter problems are generic, with examples ranging from nanostructured materials, over important surface-science phenomena, and to the very broad set of soft-matter and biomo-lecular systems. My research focuses on developments of the formally exact density functional theory (DFT) to more accurately describe sparse materials, primarily through our contributions to the inter-nationally recognized van der Waals density functional (vdW-DF) method (http://fy.chalmers.se/~schroder/vdWDF). Additional research components involve development of a nonempirical

Lean NOx reduction

My research activities focuses on environmental catalysis, and more specifically on lean NOx reduction, mainly for diesel- and lean-burn applications but also for alternatively fuelled vehicles. In catalysis research, fundamental knowledge about the chemical reactions occurring on the catalyst surface is a prerequisite for development of new and efficient catalyst materials and concepts .In particular design and preparation of catalysts as well as char-acterization and evaluation of these materials, including in-situ studies of reaction mechanisms and formation of surface bound intermediate species, have been performed. Recently, I have also started activities directed towards NOx reduction for ships, which is an emerging field owing to upcoming international legislations. My vision is to work with environmen-tal catalysis for energy efficient transportation, like bio-powered vehicles and ships. Both applications offer interesting and new

Per HyldgaardProfessor

MSc University of Copenhagen

PhD Ohio State University

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 84 22


thermodynamical account of nucleation and growth, as well as of a computational basis for investigating interacting tunneling transport. My research group is successfully applying the vdW-DF method and other nonempirical methods to a broad range of surfaces, (molecular) overlayer, and to simple (bio-)molecular systems (http://fy.chalmers.se/~hyldgaar/SNIC/). My research focus is pursued in a broad international program and offers exciting chances for a detailed for comparison with experiments. In turn the theory-experiment calibration work defines important input for the method development.


1. Applied Catalysis, B, Environmental, 104, 74–83 (2011). 2. Journal of Molecular Catalysis, A, Chemical, 314, 102–109 (2009). 3. Applied Catalysis, B, Environmental, 90, 18–28 (2009).

scientific challenges. Urea-SCR is currently used by a few Swedish ship owners; however, the research has been restricted to station-ary applications and vehicles, which has very different boundary conditions. Concerning bio-powered vehicles, the types of emis-sions and the conditions for e.g. NOx reduction puts new demands on the catalytic system.


1. J. Phys., Condens. Matt., 22, 472001 (2010). 2. Physical Review, B, 78, 165109 (2008). 3. Physical Review, B, 76, 125112 (2007).

A Heck reaction catalyzed by a Rh complex entrapped in mesoporous silica.

In-situ IR spectroscopy to follow reaction mechanisms over catalyst surfaces.

Structure design of interface and interior of protein capsule.

Role of van der Waals forces in materials: from surfaces to carbon-based systems.


Synergies are created in computational predictions – synthesis – characterization-performance loops. Primary computational tools are ab initio, DFT and MC techniques, synthesis is second, followed by molecular spectroscopy (IR, Raman), calorimetric and gravimetric techniques (DSC, TGA) for characterisation, and finally performance evaluation (AC impedance, various battery tests). The research is performed in several large international (ALISTORE-ERI, FP7-StorAGE, FP7-APPLES) and national (SHC) networks and in collaboration with several universities and companies.

Patrik JohanssonAssociate Professor

BSc Uppsala University

PhD Uppsala University

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 31 78


Small-scale sensors and cell-membrane

manipulation for life science applications

Our group has a solid base in the development of the quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) technique (www.q-sense.com), which has paved the way for a number of interconnected and interdisciplinary research projects focused on (i) state-of the art nanofabrication for bioanalytical sensing of cell-membrane mimics,(ii) implementation of material-specific orthogonal sur-face chemistries for site selective molecular binding to predefined nanoscale areas,(iii) biologically inspired means to control molecu-lar self and(iv) theoretical models capable of representing and predicting lipid- and molecular self assembly as well as kinetics of cooperative intermolecular interactions. With these activities in place, we now foresee a unique window of opportunity to consoli-date our activities towards a true breakthrough in molecular self assembly for applications in materials for life science and beyond. A key component of the ongoing research plan is our discovery

Energy Related Materials

“Technology is always limited by the materials available” – a quote from the 60’s – today a very important truth as new materials has a crucial role in achieving sustainable energy technologies for society development in the 21st Century and beyond. With this as credo my research aims to develop new materials by funda-mental understanding of structure-property relationships. My special area is different electrolytes for Li-batteries, fuel cells, electrochromics etc. Two more specific examples are new Li-salts and ionic liquid based electrolytes that hold promises of higher safety, fluorine-free reduced cost synthesis, large electrochemical and thermal stabil-ity windows, and unique modes of ion transport. Additionally Li-batteries of today can be enhanced by proper understanding of the molecular level function of tailored additives. Na-batteries are envisaged as a complement to Li-batteries.

Fredrik HöökProfessor



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 61 30


of how hydrodynamic forces can be used to control the motion of supported lipid bilayers and their components with utterly high temporal and spatial precision. By now implementing this con-cept into fully automated microfluidic systems integrated with small-scale transducer elements designed to both steer and monitor lipid-based molecular self organization, we hope to contribute to the generation of new materials with unmet control of molecular order in both two and three dimensions. Particular focus is put on new concepts for biomolecular separation and on the generation of highly ordered nanocomposites.


1. J. Am. Chem. Soc., 129 (31), 9584 (2007). 2. Nano Letters, 10 (2), 732–737 (2010). 3. Anal. Chem., 83 (2), 604–611 (2011).


1. Journal of Power Sources, 195, 6081–6087 (2010). 2. Journal of Physical Chemistry, C, 114, 20577–20582 (2010). 3. Journal of Raman Spectroscopy, 38, 551–558 (2007).

Maths KarlssonAssistant Professor

MSc Uppsala University


Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 33 30


Physics of functional oxide films and heterostructures

The complex oxides embody a broad range of materials with the same characteristic perovskite crystal structure, ABO3, where A and B are usually alkaline and transition metals, respectively. They exhibit a rich variety of crystallographic, electronic and mag-netic phases and are hosts of new important phenomena, including high-temperature superconductivity, colossal magnetoresistance, multi-ferroic behavior, and many others. They often called func-tional oxides, because their electronic properties can be tuned by chemical doping, pressure, electric or magnetic field without changing the crystal structure. Our research is centered around polar oxide interfaces which are becoming a building block of oxide electronics. We fabricate various oxide thin films and interfaces of insulating, metallic, superconducting, ferroelectric and ferromagnetic materials. Films are grown by pulsed laser deposition with in-situ electron diffrac-

Structure-Property Relationships in

Ceramic Materials for Clean Energy Technologies

My research centers on basic science of energy-related materi-als. A particular emphasis is put on proton conducting oxides, which show the huge potential to contribute to a sustainable and cleaner future through clean electricity generation in fuel cells, via hydrogen separation membranes, to their use as catalytic agents to reduce the impact of polluting combustion reactions. The goal is to develop an atomic-scale understanding of key fundamental properties, such as local structure, structural disorder, hydrogen-bonding interactions, and mechanistic aspects of proton conduction mechanisms. Such understanding is crucial for the development of strategies for developing new materials with better performance and hence is critical to future breakthroughs. The primary tools to this end involve the use of neutron and synchrotron x-ray scattering techniques (diffraction methods,

Alexey KalabukhovAssistant Professor

MSc Moscow State University

PhD Moscow State University

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 54 77


tion which allows for layer-by-layer atomic growth. We are mainly interested in correlation between the micro-structure of the interfaces on the atomic level and their functional electrical properties. We use various methods to characterize them for field effect, magneto-resistance, photo and cathode luminescence, photo-induced charge carriers injection, and super-conductivity. Nanofabrication methods have also been developed using atomic force microscopy lithography.


1. Chemistry of Materials, 22, 740–742 (2010). 2. Chemistry of Materi-als, 20, 6014–6021 (2008). 3. Physical Review, B, 77, 104302 (2008).

quasi-elastic neutron scattering, inelastic neutron scattering and x-ray absorption spectroscopy), available at international large-scale facilities (e.g. ILL, ISIS, PSI, NIST, ANSTO), and Raman and infrared spectroscopy, available in our home laboratory. In corporation with neutron facilities, I am also active in the develop-ment of a new polarised-neutron technology for structural studies of hydrogenous materials and in the development of advanced in-situ sample environment for studies of energy-related materials.


1. Phys. Rev., B, 75, 121404 (R) (2007). 2. Phys. Rev. Lett., 103, 146101 (2009). 3. European Physics Letters, 93 (3), 37001 (2011).

Molecular materials for lithium ion batteries.

Local proton dynamics in a proton conducting hydrated ABO3-type perovskite oxide.

Separation of proteins in a two dimensional liquid-like lipid bilayer.

Polar interface between LaAlO3 and SrTiO3 perovskite oxides.


understanding of the influence of these parameters allows more efficient design of the oral formulations. This work will result in safer medicines and larger reproducibility of the drug release rates and that the medicines faster will reach the market and the patients. We are also exploring issues regarding pharmaceutics, drugs with low solubility and the influence of controlled release rates related to vaccine delivery, biodegradable polymers and adhesives.

Anette LarssonAssociate Professor

Ms Chalmers University of Technology


Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 27 63


Materials Characterization

To understand a material’s structure, how that structure deter-mines its properties, and how that material will subsequently work in technological applications, we apply analytical electron microscopy (SEM, TEM) in combination with all necessary com-plementary techniques such as XRD, AES, XPS, DSC/TGA, etc. Particular focus is put on the development and characterization of different types of nanocrystalline and sub-microcrystalline materials (metallic, ceramic, and hybrids in a variety of sample forms) for functional applications. Corrosion- and wear resistance coatings as well as energy absorbing materials typically produced by electroplating or thermal spray techniques are investigated and optimized with respect to phase formation and texture, thermal stability, adhesion, etc. However, also structural materials like superalloys and advanced steels are investigated to improve their production and/or application.

Polymers and controlled release

Materials used to control the drug release are important to under-stand since they enable development of more efficient and safer medicines. My research focus is on polymers and designing for-mulations for controlled drug release. A special focus has been on cellulose and cellulose derivatives for oral controlled release, which can be achieved by creating barriers around reservoirs of the drug or by making drug containing hydrophilic matrixes that swells and erodes simultaneous. We have developed new advanced characterization methods that can explore the complex structure of cellulose derivatives and relate the structures of the polymers and the formulations to the drug release, water diffusion rates in the devices and polymer erosion rates. We have for example shown that the drug release rate from hydrophilic matrix tablets not only depends on the molar mass and the degree of substitution, but also on the substitution pattern along the cellulose chain. An

Uta KlementProfessor

Diploma in physics, University of Göttingen

Dr. rer. nat., University of Göttingen

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 12 64


Within the scope of the Metal Cutting Research and Development Centre (MCR), materials characterization is applied to investigate processes occurring during machining, e.g. microstructure influ-ences on machinability of case hardening steel and white layer formation in hard turning. Aim is to achieve robust and predictable manufacturing processes, lower energy and materials consump-tion, and reduced environmental impact.


1. Acta Mater., 53, 4473–4481 (2005). 2. Journal of Materials Science, 43, 1094–1101 (2008). 3. Materials Design, 32, 21–28 (2011).


1. European J. Pharm. Sci. , 36, 392–400 (2009). 2. Soft Materials, 8, 207–225 (2010). 3. European J. Pharm. Sci., 37, 89–97 (2009).

Johan LiuProfessor

MSc Royal Institue of Technology

PhD Royal Institute of Technology

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 30 67


Computational continuum-atomistic modeling

A major focus for our contribution to the platform theory and mod-eling has been related to the analysis of the mechanical properties of graphene membranes using a hierarchical modeling strategy to bridge the scales required to describe and understand the material. The fundamental research issue is how to properly relate Quantum Mechanical (QM) and optimized Molecular Mechanical (MM) models on the nanoscale to the device or micrometer scale, via a suitable multiscale continuum mechanical method.

Nanomaterials and processes for thermal

management in microsystems

My focus is on development of new thermal management materi-als and solutions with emphasis on 3D CNT integration, CNT and graphene based heat dissipation, bumping technology, nano thermal interface materials, nano-soldering, high temperature stable conductive adhesives, low thermal conductivity under-fill and scaffolds and patterning for biomedical applications. I am currently involved in research in thermo-electrical materials development and characterisation funded by the Swedish National Science Foundation program (VR) for on-chip cooling and 3 EU FP7 programs Smartpower, Nanopack and Thema-CNT, I am also involved in a Vinnova funded program for development of nanoscaffolds for embryonic stem cell and astrocytes differen-tiation and migration. In addition to this, the National Swedish strategic research area in Production Area of Advance: Production

Ragnar LarssonProfessor


Tekn. Lic. Chalmers University of Technology

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 52 67



1. Advanced Materials, DOI : 10.1002/adma.20100241 (2010) . 2. Carbon, DOI: 10.1016/j.carbon.2010.06.042 (2010). 3. Langmuir, DOI: 10.1021/1a9045447, A–E (2010).

and National Swedish Board for Strategic Research (SSF) and a number of large companies including Ericsson, Note and Micronic-Mydata on CNT based 3D integration, cooling and interconnect technology fund my research. My research highlights include pioneer work on nano-thermal interface materials, CNT based 3D stacking and cooler, patter-ing of nano-scaffolds on Si and glass substrate for biomedical applications, nanomaterials enhanced solder paste and conductive adhesives.


1. Comput. Mater. Sci., 50, 1744–1753 (2011). 2. Comput. Mater. Sci., submitted (2011).

Polymer erosion of homogenous and heterogenous substituted HPMC.

Mass transfer of CNTs on Si Substrate using Indium after TCVD growth.

EBSD orientation map of an annealed sub-microcrystalline Nickel electrodeposit.

Reaction AFM force versus center membrane displacement.


with respect to the influence of anion/cation structure on ion trans-port, phase behavior, glass transition temperature, and their use as solvents in colloidal silica gels. By combining spectroscopic methods we access the relevant time and length scales. In-house laboratories include Raman scat-tering, infra-red spectroscopy and photon correlation spectroscopy. At large scale facilities experiments are performed with quasi-elastic and inelastic neutron scattering, inelastic x-ray scattering, x-ray photon correlation spectroscopy.

Aleksandar MaticProfessor

Uppsala University

Chalmers University of Technology

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 51 76


Ionic liquid derived materials

Our research aims at developing ionic liquid (IL) based materials for use in low-temperature Fuel Cells and Li-ion batteries, which are interesting alternatives for a greener energy supply. We inves-tigate different ways to confine the ILs into solid matrices, like polymers (e.g. Nafion or PVdF) or silica networks (see ionogels), to meet the needs of shaping and solve safety issues. Thus, a central aspect in this research is to conceive solid-like electrolytes yet preserving liquid-like properties, such as high ion mobility and low viscosity. To reach this goal the solid-liquid interplay must be understood on the molecular level, both during synthesis and under operational conditions. Therefore, issues like connectivity of the solid network, local dynamics, and confinement effects become very important. From a more fundamental point of view, we aim at understanding the relation between molecular structure of the constituting ions and physical properties like ionic conductivity,

Soft Matter Physics

Soft materials such as liquids, polymers, colloids, and gels are central in many technological applications. They also pose a range of fundamental challenges questions arising from the combina-tion of disordered structure, out of equilibrium states, multitudes of length/time scales and weak interactions. My research covers studies of fundamental aspects of soft matter and new soft materi-als for energy applications. The work includes investigations of non-equilibrium transitions, such as the glass transition and col-loidal aggregation, charge and mass transport, hydrogen bonded systems, and vibrational excitations. A particular focus is put on ionic liquids that have several intriguing properties including negligible vapor pressure, high electrochemical stability, and high conductivity. We study both neat ionic liquids and ionic liquids in polymer membranes, colloi-dal dispersions, and ionic liquid/Li-salt mixtures for Li-batteries,

Anna MartinelliAssistant Professor

MSc Växjö University


Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 30 02


ionic association and proton transfer mechanism, in both pure and salt-doped ILs. The experimental techniques used are essentially vibrational (Raman and IR) and NMR spectroscopy, combined with syn-chrotron x-ray scattering methods. I am also coordinating the development of a cell for in situ µ-Raman measurements on proton exchange membranes during H2/O2 Fuel Cell operation. We work in close collaboration with the Department of Applied Physics at Chalmers and the National Polytechnic Institute (INP) at Grenoble (France).


1. Journal of Physical Chemistry, B, 113 (32), 11247–11251 (2009). 2. Journal of Raman Spectroscopy, 39 (7), 793–805 (2008). 3. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, 301 (1), 137–144 (2006).


1. Soft Matter, 6, 2293–2299 (2010). 2. Journal of Physical Chemistry, B, 113, 11247–11251 (2009). 3. Journal of Physical Chemistry, B, 111, 12462–12467 (2007).

Kasper Moth-PoulsenAssistant Professor

Cand. Scient. University of Copenhagen

Ph.D. University of Copenhagen

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 34 03


Innovative energy conversion devices

Development of electrochemical devices such as solar cells, fuel cells and rechargeable lithium batteries is the prime interest. This involves a broad range of measurements of electrical and ther-mal properties to develop and analyze materials with the desired properties. Photoelectrochemical solar cells based on natural or synthetic dyes and on quantum dots are developed in order to obtain stable and cost-efficient devices. Quantum dots are used in this applica-tion because their absorption spectrum is dependent on the size of the dots and could thus be tuned to a specific application or to enlarge the range of absorbed energy. Focus is on improving electrical properties and durability. Lithium-ion batteries are now generally considered for auto-motive use, nevertheless there are aspects of their use that need a deepened knowledge concerning material science. These issues

Design and synthesis of new

self-assembled molecular materials

Selective Nano-Scale Functionalization. The impressive degree of miniaturization of lithographic techniques during the last 40 years has revolutionized the way we fabricate micro and nano structures used in our everyday life. This research project focuses on the development of chemistries that allow for selective, lithog-raphy free functionalization of nanostructures with sub nanometer resolution. The work takes its offspring from organic synthe-sis, and includes nanoparticle and nano-rod synthesis, surface functionalization and characterization. Improved resolution and single molecule selectivity is highly desirable since it leads to new opportunities in a broad range of applications ranging from single molecule electronics to single molecule sensors and nano-medicine.

Bengt-Erik MellanderProfessor

MA University of Gothenburg


Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 33 40


are primarily related to safety and lifetime of the battery. A state-of-health determination is e.g. intrinsically dependent on the cell chemistry and operating conditions. Presently different aspects of lithium-ion battery safety are investigated. Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are known for their good elec-trochemical properties, but the high operating temperature and the use of brittle ceramic materials are causes for concern. Efforts on developing material technology which allows for intermediate temperature SOFCs as well as on other fuel cell systems are in progress.


1. Nature Nanotech., 4, 551–556 (2009). 2. ACS Nano, 3, 828–834 (2009). 3. Adv. Materials, 23, 878–882 (2011).

Molecular Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion. Explor-ing ways to utilize solar energy for power generation is a major focus of research in recent years. A promising method of direct solar power generation and long-term solar energy storage is through chemical bonds of photosensitive materials. In these molecular systems, a parent compound is photo-converted to a stable higher energy isomer. In turn, the parent compound can be regenerated upon thermal excitation or exposure to a catalyst of the isomer upon which the stored energy is released in the form of heat.


1. Journal of Power Sources, 195, 3730–3734 (2010). 2. International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 35, 2970–2975 (2010). 3. Journal of Non-Crystalline Solids, 356, 710–714 (2010).

A Li-conducting colloidal gel based on surface modified fumed silica

TEM of a self-assembled nanogap overlayed with an artistic illustration.

An ionogel with 0.1 mole fraction of ionic liquid.

Reponse to light pulses for a quantum dot photoelectrochemical solar cell.


Physicochemical properties of cellulose, pulp and wood. The demand for sustainable products increases. Wood, as a renew-able material available in large quantities, is of particular interest in this regard. A key component is cellulose, the biopolymer with a variety of application potentials but, at the same time, equipped with complexity. My current research mainly concerns pulp, cellulose and the modifications of these materials upon drying and wetting. Disso-lution of cellulose is also of interest. An important experimental technique is NMR spectroscopy and in particular solid-state NMR and its possibilities to provide physicochemical properties.

Lars NordstiernaAssistant Professor

MSc Lund University

PhD Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 56 16


Disordered Crystalline Materials

Energy related applications, e.g. oxide fuel cells, lithium batteries, and hydrogen storage, commonly contain crystalline materials with a significant structural disorder or a local atomic ordering that differs from the average structure. One prime example is oxideconducting materials that often have a substantial cation disorder whilst the associated oxygen vacancies are intrinsically ordered as well as clustered around specific cations. Such detailed knowledge about the local structural ordering is essential for a complete struc-tural understanding and for making new materials with improved properties. My research is focused on understanding the fundamental aspects of structural disorder and how it affects the physical prop-erties of a material. A main technique is neutron scattering with a focus on using and developing in-situ techniques for investigating chemical processes and physical properties whilst collecting dif-

Controlled release from microparticles, paint and coatings

Biocide-containing paint loses the protective ability quite rapidly due to fast diffusional biocide leakage. A promising improvement of anti-growth protection can be achieved by the use of encap-sulated biocides that slows down the diffusion in the coating. The biocide is placed into microparticles, from where it is slowly distributed into the surrounding coating matrix. My current research involves projects with both applied and fundamental focuses. I am part of the Marine Paint Programme, an interdisciplinary research collaboration with the aim to develop effective marine antifouling paints. Another application using microparticles is facade coatings. The research concerns the mechanisms that govern release from microparticles and the pos-sibility to apply mathematical models that may describe and predict release.

Stefan NorbergAssociate Professor



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 28 76


fraction data. We also perform total scattering measurement which provides a total radial distribution function that can be analysed with the reverse Monte Carlo method. This results in information concerning order/disorder at the local atomic scale as opposed to methods that analyse the average structure. The development of in-situ cells for neutron powder diffrac-tion, e.g. in-situ cells for controlled oxygen pressure & impedance spectroscopy is part of an ongoing cooperation between Chalmers and the ISIS neutron facility, UK.


1. Chemistry of Materials, 23, 1356–1364 (2011). 2. Physical Review Letters, 102, 155502 (2009). 3. Journal of Applied Crystallography, 42, 179–184 (2009).


1. Progress in Organic Coatings, 69, 45–48 (2010). 2. Biomacromolecules, 10, 2401–2407 (2009). 3. J. Chem. Phys., 125, 074704 (2006).

Lars NyborgProfessor



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 12 57


Engineering metals for power conversion

systems and surface analysis of their degradation

The degradation of engineering metals in harsh environments oftenlimits the capability of technical systems. Increased temperaturesaffect the load capacity and induce accelerated corrosion that reduces the lifetime. My research focuses on materials in power conversion systems where higher temperatures significantly improve the energy efficiency and environmental impact of the system. Thorough studies of the material performance give a basis not only for alloy selection but also to identify relevant research questions. Studies of materials degradation on scales ranging from meter to nanometer are related to the material structure and the application. This is combined with lab exposures, often mimicking complex environments, and detailed characterization of the attack. In particular we use surface analytical tools like AES (Auger Elec-tron Spectroscopy) and XPS on both technical surfaces from the

Surface and Interface Engineering

of PM materials and Advanced Alloys

Powder metallurgy (PM) is one of the most energy efficient and materials utilization efficient ways of transforming a raw mate-rial into the final material in advanced products and components. The control of surface reactions during the processing of the PM material is of great importance and I have therefore taken special interest in advanced surface analysis such X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Auger electron spectroscopy to study surface composition of metal powder and develop understanding of surface reactions during metal powder sintering. This includes studies of high strength sintered steels and recently also soft magnetic composites and shape memory metals. We try then to understand how to sinter to achieve good properties (see figure). We have also included thermodynamic and kinetics modeling, experimental simulations, FEM, etc in our approach. Other areas

Mats NorellLecturer



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 12 60


field, and on lab material. The general aim is a more efficient use of engineering metals in their application. The applications include waste and bio fuelled boilers where fuels, lowering the emissions of CO2, can cause severe corrosion of stainless steels. We did rather fundamental studies of the corrosion of cast steels and irons used in engines manifolds and now work on corrosion in exhaust systems where urea is injected to reduce the emissions. Fatigue of superalloys is studied primarily using the surface sensitivity and 12 nm lateral resolution of our Auger nanoprobe.


1. Wear, 269 (2–4), 229–240 (2010). 2. Applied Surface Science, 256 (12), 3946–3961 (2010). 3. Surface and Interface Analysis, 41 (6), 471–483 (2009).

of interest and effort include work material behavior in metal cut-ting, welding metallurgy, tribology, oxidation and corrosion. In all the areas, co-operation with industry is vital. Special efforts also include the Sino-Swedish Advanced Materials Exchange Centre and Metal Cutting Research and Development Centre (MCR).


1. Oxidation of Metals, 69 (1–2), 37–62 (2008). 2. Materials Science and Engineering, A, 528 (6), 2570–2580 (2011). 3. Materials and Corrosion, 62: n/a. DOI: 10.1002/maco.201005783.

Electron micrograph of a paint matrix with encapsulated biocide.

Fracture surface of well sintered material: Hryha, Chasoglou, Nyborg.

Radial distribution functions showing difference between local and average structure.

AES profile of oxide on HT fatigue fracture.


the electron microscopes allows the direct correlation between the local atomic structure and properties on the nanoscale. The high resolution high angle annular dark field (HAADF) scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) image (raw data) shows a LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interface. Each bright dot corre-sponds to an atomic column. The brightest dots corresponds to La atom columns and the next brightest to Sr columns. The distance between two bright spots is 4 Å. The electron energy loss spectra (EELS) are from a LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interface along a line perpen-dicular to the interface.

Eva OlssonProfessor

MSc Chalmers University

PhD Chalmers University

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 32 47


Soft matter structure design for controlling diffusion and flow

Soft biomaterial structure, dynamics and diffusion and flow are key words in my research. Soft biomaterials are of great soci-etal interest but our understanding of the principles governing transport of liquids and particles in liquids is still weak. Polymer and particle gels are two examples of soft biomaterials where the dynamics range from picosecond to years and the structure may vary between nano to millimeter making them highly challenging. My research deals with understanding the fundamental principles involved in the correlation between material structure and dynam-ics and the motion of particles or molecules. I colloborate with mathematicians, physicists, materials sci-entists and biologist in projects of both fundamental and applied nature. In the VINN Excellence Center SuMo Biomaterials (http://www.chalmers.se/chem/sumo-en/) we combine several scientific disciplines towards better understanding of soft biomaterials. We

The functional structure of nanostructured materials

The properties of materials are determined by the arrangements of atoms and electrons in phases, combined systems and artifi-cially made structures. The reason is that atoms are sufficiently close for each atom to simultaneously interact with several near-est neighbours at any given time in solid state and liquid matter. Consequently, defects and interfaces also have a strong influence on the properties. My research concerns the correlation between atomic structure and atomic structure and how they are related to the synthesis parameters. The knowledge provides both a fun-damental understanding for the material phenomena and also the ability to design new intelligent materials with tailored properties. The atomic structure is studied mainly using electron micros-copy and the electronic structure mainly using electron energy loss spectroscopy. The development of systems for dynamic in situ experiments by, for example, scanning probe microscopy in

Magnus NydénProfessor

MSc Umeå and Lund University

PhD Lund University

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 29 73


use different mass transport techniques in combination with high resolution microscopy and mathematical and computer modeling for creating an experimental and theoretical toolbox for rational design of smart materials with tailored properties. I work with developing sustainable antifouling coating materi-als. In a short perspective it entails formulation of mixtures of biocides with microcapsules for controlled release. Looking many years ahead the goal is a new class of functional smart coatings that are completely biocide free and thereby sustainable from an environmental point of view.


1. Soft Matter, DOI: 10.1039/C1SM05070B (2011). 2. J. Magn. Reson., DOI:10.1016/j.jmr.2009.09.010 (2009). 3. Progress in Organic Coatings, DOI:10.1016/j.porgcoat.2010.05.003 (2010).


1. Nano Letters, 10, 3302 (2010). 2. Appl. Phys. Lett., 95, 142507 (2009). 3. Phys. Rev., B, Rapid communication, 75, 121404 (2007).

Anders PalmquistResearcher

MSc Luleå Technical University

Institut National Polytechnique de Lorraine

Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya


Phone: +46 (0) 31 786 29 71


Emission cleaning from vehicles

using heterogeneous catalysis

It is crucial to decrease the emissions of toxic gases from vehicles and heterogeneous catalysis plays a vital role for this. The cata-lytic system after a diesel engine is today very complex. Most new catalysts are multi-component, with several active materials dispersed on a porous support. Real catalysts on a support are very heterogeneous and the outcome off the added materials is often far from the sum of the added functions. The interplay between differ-ent materials will influence the electronic promotion of the active materials, the number of sites in the border between the materials, spill-over processes, etc. These processes are crucial for the activ-ity and selectivity of the catalytic material. In my research group we focus on heterogeneous catalysis for cleaning emissions from vehicles. We synthesize catalytic materials and characterize them thoroughly. We also use micro calorimetry to determine the heat of

Osseointegration: from macro to nano

My research interest consists of evaluation and implementation of novel techniques for characterization of the bone-implant inter-face at different resolutions levels and aspects. Important factors are structural and chemical analysis with nanometer resolution and biomechanical evaluations at the macro level. By combining analysis at different length scales and aspects a more thorough understanding of the bone-bonding process could be retrieved generating more detailed knowledge for optimization of the sur-face structure, improving the early bone formation and long-term success. Implants are used to restore lost body functions, which might be due to trauma or decease. Since the 1960’s titanium implants have been used for anchoring teeth and have shown excellent clinical results. The ability for a titanium implant to be anchored in bone tissue was termed osseointegration, and defined as a direct contact

Louise OlssonAssociate Professor


PhD University of Technology

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 43 90


adsorption of gases on different surfaces and DRIFT spectroscopy to identify the adsorbed species on the catalyst. We combine all the experimental results in order to develop a detailed mechanism for what reaction steps occur on the catalytic surfaces and how the interplay between the materials affect the mechanisms as well as activity and selectivity. Based on this understanding we develop kinetic models that can describe the reactions that occur on the catalytic materials. The models can be used both for increasing the knowledge and for predictions.


1. J. Biomed. Mater. Res., B, 97, 289–298 (2011). 2. J. R. Soc. Interface, 7, 1497–1501 (2010). 3. Acta Orthop., 79, 78–85 (2008).

by bone to the implant surface without an intervening fibrous tissue. Since then other applications have been introduced such as the bone anchored hearing aids and major limb amputation prosthe-sis, which dramatically improve the quality of life for the patients. With the emerging nanotechnologies new definitions are needed where one of them is nano-osseointegration, where the bone anchoring process in nano-scale resolution needs to be defined, both from experimental in vivo studies and retrieved from humans (Figure).


1. Appl. Catal., B, 100, 31–41 (2011). 2. Catalysis Today, 147S, S290–S294 (2009). 3. Appl. Catal., B, 88, 240–248 (2009).

Atom resolution HAADF STEM image of an oxide interface and EELS spectra.

The implant-human bone (A) and rabbit bone (B) interface using HAADF-STEM.

Nanometer sized particle used in NMR diffusometry studies for probing microstructures.

The effect of adding barium before or after platinum in NOx storage catalysts.


rheological properties and the manufacturing process also have a direct influence on the surface quality, not least for the generation of surface defects. Use of polymers based on renewable resources, instead of fossil-based ones, also constitutes an area of great inter-est. The use of such materials requires however in many cases an adaptation of the processing technique used and this represents an active research field for the group. A third important activity centres around electrical and other physical properties of nano-composites based on carbonaceous particles.

Mikael RigdahlProfessor



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 13 09


Functional Materials Chemistry

Our research is within the area of materials chemistry where we develop new functional materials and methods for their synthesis. We have expertise in studies of processes involved in the forma-tion of nanostructured materials, structural and physicochemical characterisation of materials and evaluation of their properties. Nanostructured materials. Much of our efforts are focused on nanostructured materials ranging from small particles to micro- and mesoporous solids and host-guest clathrates. These materials offer high interfacial areas and a diverse range of properties, and are of interest for many applications. Depending on structure and composition of the material we choose our synthesis methods from a broad range including amphiphile-directed wet chemical sol-gel methods, solvothermal, solid state mixing and crystal pulling using the Czochralski-method.

Polymeric materials and composites

Polymers constitute today a very important group of materials, although the plastics have only been around for a few decades. A distinctive feature of materials science is the search for useful relations between the structure (on different levels) and mate-rial properties. In the case of polymeric materials, the processing technique chosen has a very strong influence on the structure of the material and thus on its performance. These aspects constitute together the basis for the activities within the research group. The research is often of an interdisciplinary character and covers both fundamental and more applied issues. My specific interests are today focussed on the relations between surface characteristics of polymeric components, e.g. surface topography, colour and reflectance, and the perceived quality. This requires fundamental knowledge on the scattering proper-ties of surfaces as well as the use of human test panels. Here the

Anders PalmqvistProfessor


PhD Royal Institute of Technology

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 29 61


Materials for energy applications. Sustainable supply of energy and more efficient conversion of energy are grand challenges for our civilisation. We target these challenges by developing new materials for the following three applications for which we are equipped to evaluate materials performance. Thermoelectric materials for direct conversion of waste heat to electricity. Noble metal free fuel cell catalysts for generation of electricity through sustainable and efficient electrochemical oxidation of hydrogen to water. Photocatalysts for solar light harvesting to facilitate chemi-cal reactions.


1. Journal of Applied Physics, 99, 023708 (2006). 2. Angewandte Chemie International, Edition English, 46, 718–722 (2007). 3. Chemistry of Materi-als, DOI: 10.1021/cm103600q (2011).


1. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 119, 3264–3272 (2011). 2. Polym. Eng. Sci., 50, 1527–1534 (2010). 3. Carbohydrate Polym., 71, 583–590 (2008).

Per RudquistAssociate Professor



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 33 89


Lightweight Structures and Material Characterisation

Design of lightweight structures for the maritime industry is a challenge from a structural and a material utilisation point of view. Marine structures must be designed properly to endure the vari-ability in loading conditions from the environment (wind, waves, temperature) with very low risk for loss of property, human life or hazardous accidents for the environment. Energy efficiency during shipping transportation should also be strived for by making the structures as lightweight as possible. My research covers studies of fundamental aspects of material characterisation and perfor-mance for marine structures applications. Depending on the type of structure and its intended use and functionality, metallic and composite material solutions and their characteristics are con-sidered. Material utilisation and investigation of various damage mechanisms in a material that can lead to a potential loss of struc-tural integrity are studied such as exceeding the ultimate strength,

Liquid Crystals

Liquid crystals (LCs) are soft materials and represent a variety of well-defined types of long range order the physics of which has more resemblance to solid state features than to common liquids. The field of liquid crystals extends far beyond displays (LCDs) and combines basic aspects of physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering and biology. My research concerns physics and device physics of ferro- and antiferroelectric LCs, which can be up to 1000 times faster than the nematic LCs used in today’s LCDs. However, their smectic structure leads to a fundamental tendency for a layer buckling instability that can severely affect device performance. We have recently made significant progress in the understand-ing of a new class of smectics that do not suffer from buckling as these materials undergo the phase transition to the tilted smectic phase without shrinkage in the layer periodicity.

Jonas RingsbergProfessor



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 14 89


fatigue, reduction in ductility and brittleness. The material science research is carried out by means of advanced nonlinear finite ele-ment simulations together with experimental testing of material characteristics using standard specimens as well as large-scale structures. Some examples of my fields of research for enhanced utilisation and design of safe and reliable lightweight material solutions for marine applications are: Arctic engineering, colli-sion and grounding (energy absorption and fracture behaviour), composite materials in large-scale commercial vessels, fatigue (in general), residual stresses, probabilistic methods and risk analysis.


1. Physical Review, E, 83, 051711 (2011). 2. Handbook of Visual Display Technology, Canopus/Springer (2011). 3. Molecular Crystals and Liquid Crystals, 510, 1282–1291 (2009).

The effects from layer buckling in antiferroelectric devices, espe-cially the light leakage in the dark state, can be eliminated by the use of our so-called orthoconic materials which presents a perfect dark state despite layer buckling. We are now developing a number of device concepts based on orthoconics for faster displays and 3D applications. Most recently we have studied layer buckling in colloidal liquid crystal shells. The topological defects in liquid crystal shells have been proposed for use as linker anchor points for self-assembly of e.g. diamond-like colloidal crystals.


1. Advances in Marine Structures, 707–714, ISBN: 978-0-415-67771-4, (2011). 2. Ships and Offshore Structures, 5 (1), 51–66 (2010). 3. Inter-national Journal of Impact Engineering, 36 (10–11), 1194–1203 (2009).

Thermal analysis of polymers.SmA orientational distribution functions in the case of non-layer shrinkage smectics.

Rb-CTH-1, nanoporous semiconductor with |Rb18|[Sb36O54][(SbTe3)2(Te2)6] composition.

Solid indenter penetration of a metal sheet – determination of material performance.


tional effort and by now marginal computational cost. The vdW-DF functional has been implemented in many DFT codes, including Siesta, GPAW, Abinit, and Quantum Espresso. The applications are many; in my group recent systems have been layered oxides (mainly V2O5) and adsorption of molecules (adenine, PAH mol-ecules, n-alkanes, phenol, methanol, etc) on graphene and other surfaces.

Elsebeth SchröderProfessor

MSc University of Copenhagen

PhD University of Copenhagen

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 84 24


Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites

My research interests are in polymer composites and nanocompos-ites. We aim to expand their range and performance: Electroactive nanocomposites – Carbon nanotubes (CNT), graphite nanoplatelets (GNP), and graphene layers are incor-porated into polymers. The systems aim at nanoengineering of components. Examples of recent results: functionalized CNT can desirably enhance formation of beta crystallinity (ref. 1, below); high 3rd order susceptibility in CNT/poly(vinylcarbazole) of 1.85x10^-10 esu was obtained (ref. 2, below); thin graphene stacks are obtained by liquid dispersion. Manufacturing of nanocomposites – We refine GNP to better incorporate it in polymer matrix (see fig.). We break up GNP micraggglomerates in a novel elongational flow mixer, and pro-duce stacks of 2–5 graphene layers using own solvent dispersion technique. To incorporate CNT, a film stacking route based on

Atomic scale theory for sparse matter

Our van der Waals density functional (vdW-DF), proposed in 2004, has shown great promise in a broad range of applications, covering such varied systems as graphite, polymers, and DNA. Ground-state properties, including binding energies, equilibrium geometries, and vibrational frequencies, have been calculated with a good agreement with experimental data, as well as electronic properties, like intercalation effects and work functions. My work focuses on test, development, and applications and aims to show that atomistic theory, for example via vdW-DF, can give input to the more general condensed matter work pursued by the community working on systems of larger scales, such as by providing first-principles-based parameters. The work by our Chalmers-Rutgers collaboration on the vdW-DF functional has been immensely successful in the sense that good results are obtained with at first reasonable computa-

Rodney RychwalskiProfessor

MSc Cracow University of Technology

PhD Cracow University of Technology

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 13 15


cellulose layers was adapted for melamine-formaldehyde (MF)(ref. 3, below). Composites for surfaces – Unique hard composites based upon MF and using glass fibre (GF), carbon fibre (CF) and CNT were prepared. GF/cellulose/MF compound was developed industri-ally (Perstorp AB). For CF/MF, flexibilizing the matrix close to fibre improves mechanical properties. Presence of cellulose in MF can control the dispersion of carbonaceous filler. Also CNT/MF materials for surfaces were prepared. For CNT/MF, strength and stiffness is increased at very low amounts of CNT, and an electri-cally conductive surface is obtained.


1. Compos. Sci. Tech., 71 (2), 222–229 (2011). 2. Carbon, 49, 311–319 (2011). 3. Compos. Sci. Tech., 67, 844–854 (2007).


1. New Journal of Physics, 12, 013017 (2010). 2. Physical Review Let-ters, 92, 246401 (2004). 3. Physical Review Letters, 96, 146107 (2006).

Jan-Erik SvenssonProfessor

MSc University of Gothenburg


Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 28 63


Emission Control and Energy-related Catalysis

My main research fields are emission control catalysis and energy-related catalysis. Most of my work is performed within the Competence Centre for Catalysis. Particularly the study of kinetics and reaction mechanisms in the catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides in oxidizing environment, catalytic oxidation of hydrocarbons at low temperatures, and surface processes during detection of gases on chemical gas sensors is of great interest. The research combines modern techniques and methods within catalysis and nanoscience to relate catalytic properties as activ-ity, selectivity and stability with physiochemical properties of the catalytic material studied. An especially important issue in the research is the use of well-controlled perturbations of the reactant composition, to improve the performance of the catalyst, and to identify the surface pro-cesses that control the reaction considered. My research’s vision is

Materials chemistry

Material chemistry research is important for a sustainable society, e.g. for the development of new sustainable energy systems. In many cases the development of new, energy-saving and environ-mentally friendly, techniques are limited by the degradation of materials at high temperature. My research concerns mainly mate-rial chemistry for energy applications, application areas include Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) and green electricity production from biomass. My research focuses on fundamental aspects of the oxidation and corrosion processes. The long-term scientific objective is to increase the knowledge of the oxidation and corrosion through mechanistically directed experiment. The ability of materials to withstand high-temperature corrosion is determined by the proper-ties of the oxide scales, e.g. chromia and alumina, that develop. The morphology of the protective layer and its crystal, defect and grain

Magnus SkoglundhProfessor



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 29 74


to contribute to a sustainable transport, energy and environmental system with new catalyst techniques. The figure shows the evolution of XANES platinum spectra during a pulse-response experiment for a Pt/Al2O3 catalyst exposed methane while periodically varying the oxygen concentration. The intensity of the white line decreases when the oxygen supply is switched off indicating a decreasing O/Pt-ratio which is shown beneficial for a high activity for methane oxidation.


1. J. Electrochem. Soc., 157 (9), B1295–B1300 (2010). 2. Oxidation of Metals, 70 (3–4), 163–188 (2008). 3. Oxidation of Metals, 64 (1–2), 23–41 (2005).

structure are decisive in this respect and involve a length scale from several nanometers to micrometer. Because the processes that constitute corrosion occur on so different length scales, we combine methods that cover the whole range, from the nanometer scale to the macroscopic object. A wide range of state-of-the-art methods for investigating and characterizing materials and sur-faces, including in-situ corrosion experiments, electron microscopy and first principles model calculations is used.


1. Journal of Physical Chemistry, C, 115, 944–951 (2011). 2. Journal of Physical Chemistry, B, 109, 9581–9588 (2005). 3. Catalysis Letters, 66, 71–74 (2000).

Sketch of a layer of adenine adsorbed on graphene.

High temperature exposure of interconnect materials for Solid oxide fuel cells.

TEM image of graphene stack (sample preparation by solvent exfoliation in NMP/PS).

XANES platinum spectra during pulse-response for Pt/Al2O3 catalyst exposed to methane.


titania, alumina and zirconia. It is e.g. observed that common ther-mal, topographic and UV-irradiation treatments can drasticly alter surface mediated coagulation and immune complement activation. The reduction of surface mediated coagulation and complement is beneficial for blood compatibility.

Pentti TengvallProfessor

MSc Linköping University

PhD Linköping University

Phone: +46 (0) 31 786 27 45


Physics of soft and biological materials

Scientific studies of soft and biological materials are strongly inter-disciplinary and lie at the interface between physics, chemistry, biophysics, biochemistry, medicine and chemical engineering. In addition to pure biological materials it includes the study of poly-mers, emulsions, colloids and similar systems which, until fairly recently, were considered the domain of physical chemistry rather than physics. However, it is now realised that there are generic unifying principles which control the behaviour of many of these complex materials, and that these principles are physical rather than chemical in nature. Furthermore, all biological materials and also many other soft systems contain water and it is clear that it is the presence of this water that is, to a large extent, determining the material properties. Much of my research is focused on this important role of water for life and other material properties of industrial, pharmaceutical and medical importance. However, we

Biomaterials

The classical hard and soft Materials in Medicine need to be improved and pose several future challenges, such as enhanced and sustained integration and vascularisation, guided wound healing and suppression of bacterial infections. To meet these challenges, surfaces are commonly modified and tested. Current modifica-tions include then topographical-, chemical-, and pharmacological techniques. The main interest in our research is put on pharmacological surface modifications, and for the time being bisphosphonates on metal surfaces are tested in in vivo animal and human models. Other bone growth improvement materials of interest include strontium salts, calcium phosphates, and bioglasses. In addition to the above, this group have studied during many years interactions between blood plasma and common model biomaterials, such as self assembled molecules (SAMs) on gold,

Jan SwensonProfessor

MSc Gothenburg University


Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 56 80


are also performing fundamental research on solid electrolytes, such as ion conducting glasses and polymer based electrolytes, for electrochemical energy storage devices. The studies are mainly based on neutron scattering techniques, dielectric spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and computational modelling methods.


1. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 106, 5129–5134 (2009). 2. Phys. Chem., B, 115, 4099–4109 (2011). 3. Phys. Chem., B, 115, 1825–1832 (2011).


1. Biomaterials, 19, 407–422 (1998). 2. Biomaterials, 25 (11), 2133–2138 (2004). 3. Biomaterials, 31, 4795–4801 (2010).

Shumin WangProfessor

MSc Fudan University

PhD Gothenburg University

Phone: +46 (0) 317725039


Materials Modelling and Simulation

Materials modelling and simulation aims to develop fundamental relationships between the atomic structure and properties of mol-ecules and bulk materials as well as their surfaces and interfaces, so that advanced materials with enhanced and new properties can be designed. My research interest is in exploring the links between the elec-tronic structure of materials, the behaviour of their atoms, the statistical thermodynamic description and materials processes. Computational techniques such as electronic structure calculations based on the density functional theory, the quantum-mechanical path integral method, classical molecular dynamics, Monte Carlo and kinetic simulation techniques are being used. Interface related phenomena and hydrogen motion are two central research topics. Several of our projects are also done in collaboration with experimentalists. We have performed com-

Semiconductor heterostructures

Semiconductor heterostructures have feature sizes in nanometer scale and are possible to be tailor-made through band engineering showing many unique electronic properties. Epitaxy is required to grow such structures with excellent control in thickness, alloy composition and doping. My research covers molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) growth of III-V semiconductors for making opto-electronic devices. One research topic is design and fabrication of InAs/GaSb type-II superlattices for IR focal plane array photodetectors (IR digitalcamera) that can work e.g. in night vision at relatively high ambienttemperatures with reduced production costs. The broken band-alignment of InAs/GaSb enables a large detection wavelength tuning from 2 to 30 µm from the same material by only adjusting the relative thicknesses. We aim at optimizing structure design and growth conditions to achieve a large number of strain compensated

Göran WahnströmProfessor



Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 36 34


putational studies of proton motion in acceptor doped barium zirconate, a solid oxide that exhibit significant proton conductivity at elevated temperatures. Interface properties have been investi-gated in relation to cemented carbides, an important composite engineering material, and density functional theory results have then been combined with thermodynamic modelling techniques. First-principles studies of the water production reaction on plati-num have been performed, a prototype reaction in heterogeneous catalysis and in practical applications such as fuel cells.


1. Microelectronics Journal, 40, 386 (2009) (invited paper). 2. Nano Let-ters 9, 1921 (2009). 3. Appl. Phys. Lett., 91, 221101 (2007).

InAs/GaSb periods (>500) on 2″ substrates. Another research focus is on bismuth containing materials including dilute bismides and (BiSb)2Te3 nanostructures. Dilute bismides are the least explored III-V compounds and reveal interesting physical properties theoretically like large band gap reduction and large spin-orbit split band. (BiSb)2Te3 is an impor-tant material for thermoelectric applications as well as topological insulators. The van der Waals bonding makes it possible to exfoli-ate (BiSb)2Te3 thin films to form grapheme-like nano-sheets. We study Bi incorporation grown by MBE and material properties of dilute bismides.


1. Phil. Mag. Lett., 90, 599–609 (2010). 2. Phys. Rev. Lett., 101, 215902 (2008). 3. Phys. Rev. Lett., 92, 136103 (2004).

Surface topography of a stainless steel screw after immersion in hydrofluric acid.

X-ray diffraction of an InAs/GaSb superlattice showing excellent interface quality.

Conduction pathways of Li-ions in a LiPO3 glass.

Induced electron density (blue/red-increased/decreased) at a metal-ceramic interface.

34 Materials Science at Chalmers and GU Biomaterials34

Nanomaterials for Sustainable Energy

My research interests are at the intersection of materials science, energy science and nanoscience in the area of Nanomaterials for Sustainable Energy, i.e. I use lithographically fabricated, nano-structured model systems to study materials and processes with relevance to energy applications. Particular interests include the development of novel nanofabrication schemes, plasmonic excita-tions in metallic nanoparticles, plasmon-enhanced photovoltaic solar cells, plasmon-enhanced solar fuel production (including both hydrogen production via water splitting and carbon dioxide conversion to short hydrocarbon fuels), and nanostructured PEM fuel cell electrodes. Experimental methods we typically use include electron beam lithography and hole-mask colloidal lithography combined with physical vapor deposition and plasma etching methods for the fabrication of nanostructured model systems, and scanning elec-

Michael ZächDr.

MSc Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH)

PhD Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH)

Phone: +46 (0) 31 772 33 68


tron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction for their characterization. The ultimate goal is to establish a relationship between structural parameters, such as nanostructure size, chemical composition and crystallographic structure, and system performance (e.g. photocur-rent generation in a photoelectrochemical cell). The advantage of relying on lithographic nanofabrication methods is the extremely high degree of control and tunability, thus making the model sys-tems readily accessible to theoretical modeling.


1. Advanced Materials, 19, 4297–4302 (2007). 2. Applied Physics Letters, 92, 053110-1–053110-3 (2008). 3. ACS Nano, 5, 2535–2546 (2011).

Paper: Cocoon Offset and Cocoon Gloss from Antalis . Superior environmental credentials . Made from 100% FSC recycled pulp !

Schematic and SEM image of model system to study plasmon-enhanced water splitting.

Area of Advance Director Prof. Krister Holmberg [email protected] • +46 31 772 29 69

Area of Advance Co-director Prof. Aleksandar Matic [email protected] • +46 31 772 51 76

Communications Officer Dr. Per Thorén [email protected] • +46 31 772 30 53

Communications Officer Susanne Wilken [email protected] • +46 31 772 36 35

materials science - chalmers€¦ · residual stress fields that causes distorsions after...

Documents