Projects

International

EU-MACE – European Materials Acceleration Center for Energy
European Materials Acceleration Center for Energy
Program:	COST
Project leader:	Ing. Tatarko Peter, PhD.
Annotation:	Materials have played a decisive role in nearly all rupture technologies in the industrial history of our society. Faced with the current climate, geopolitical and humanitarian crisis, many international and regional entities (political, industrial and scientific alike) recognize the importance of a strong materials innovation ecosystem for driving the clean energy transition. In response, self-driving laboratories (SDL) (a.k.a. MAPs – materials acceleration platforms) are created at institutional, regional and international levels. SDLs integrate combinatorial synthesis, high-throughput characterization, automated analysis and machine learning for fast-track discovery and optimization of advanced materials. While these platforms are proving their effectiveness in producing advanced materials with targeted functionalities and physical properties, a large margin of improvement still exists. Streamlining materials integration into components and to safe and sustainable products is one example challenge in order to enable rupture technology. Another challenge is that of geographical concentration of MAPs that practically excludes a substantial fraction of research labs and tech-companies in Europe from contributing and benefiting from such platforms. Finally, next generation material science researchers need to develop new skills to be able to integrate such systemic and automated approach into their future R&D framework. To this end, EU-MACE will become an ecosystem for accelerated materials development at the user end, gathering researchers and stakeholders with state-of-the-art digital and material competences combined with the market/social pull. Our inclusive & systemic approach will lay the foundation for a future centre of excellence for advanced functional materials to assist transition toward a united and stronger EU.
Duration:	3.10.2023 – 2.10.2027

Nové vysokoentropické borido-karbidy pre vysokoteplotné aplikácie
Novel high entropy diborodicarbides for ultra-high temperature applications
Program:	Bilateral – other
Project leader:	Ing. Tatarko Peter, PhD.
Duration:	1.1.2024 – 31.12.2026

Novel Ultra-High Temperature Ceramic Matrix Cpmposites for Application in Harsh Aerospace Environments
Novel Ultra-High Temperature Ceramic Matrix Cpmposites for Application in Harsh Aerospace Environments
Program:	JRP
Project leader:	Ing. Tatarko Peter, PhD.
Duration:	1.1.2024 – 31.12.2026

BioSurf – Transformácia bioinertného na bioaktívne prostredníctvom povrchového inžinierstva
Transforming bioinert to bioactive through surface engineering
Program:	JRP
Project leader:	prof. Ing. Galusek Dušan, DrSc.
Annotation:	Cieľom navrhovaného projektu je vyvinúť sklo/keramický implantát s vysokou pevnosťou a bioaktivitou. Na dosiahnutie hlavného cieľa bude potrebné vyriešiť nasledujúce úlohy:a) modifikácia povrchu implantátu úpravou studenou plazmou s cieľom zabezpečiť dostatočnú adhéziu bioaktívnych povlakov na bioinertný keramický (ZrO2) substrát.b) príprava viacvrstvových povlakov z bioaktívnej keramiky na báze hydroxyapatitu (HA) a/alebo síranu vápenatého (CaSO4), ktoré pozostávajú z rozpustnej vrchnej vrstvy a z medzivrstvy (medzivrstiev) bioaktívnej keramiky zabezpečujúcej pevnú väzbu so substrátom.c) príprava povlakov z mezopórovitých bioaktívnych sklenených častíc pripravených pomocou sol-gélu, ktoré sú dopované rôznymi terapeutickými anorganickými iónmi, ktoré by vyvolali bioreakciu okolitého tkaniva.d) hodnotenie biologickej účinnosti povlakov testovaním in vitro životaschopnosti buniek, bioaktivity a mechanických vlastností (pevnosť priľnavosti, odolnosť proti opotrebovaniu) povlakovaných implantátov.
Duration:	1.1.2023 – 31.12.2025

JoinHEC – Vývoj nových metód spájania vysoko-entropických keramických materiálov
Development of new joining methods for high entropy ceramics
Program:	Bilateral – other
Project leader:	Ing. Tatarko Peter, PhD.
Annotation:	The main aim of the proposed project is to develop new joining techniques for high entropy ceramics (HEC) in order to improve the operational limits of the joints for aerospace applications. The project proposes an innovative way of manufacturing of HEC joints with potentially improved high temperature properties, using a direct solid-state diffusion bonding (without an interlayer) or diffusion bonding with refractory metal interlayers. For the first time, refractory high entropy alloys (HEA) will be used as the joining interlayers between a pair of HEC, or as the interlayer for joining of HEC to ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). The project aims to generate new fundamental knowledge on the understanding of the effect of electric field and surface preparation on the direct diffusion bonding of HEC, as well as the interfacial physico-chemical phenomena occurring at the HEC/HEA and HEA/CMCs interfaces. The mechanical performance of the joints at room and high temperatures will be investigated to define the operational limits of the joints. The project will provide a comprehensive insight on the joining of high entropy ceramics for potential aerospace applications. This may significantly expand the application potential of the recently developed next generation ultra-high temperature ceramics, i.e. high entropy ceramics.
Duration:	1.7.2022 – 30.6.2025

National

Keramické kompozitné materiály na báze SiC s vysokou tepelnou vodivosťou
Silicon carbide ceramic composite materials with high thermal conductivity
Program:	VEGA
Project leader:	Ing. Hanzel Ondrej, PhD.
Annotation:	The main goal of this project is preparation of dense silicon carbide (SiC) ceramics without sintering additives and/or silicon carbide composites with very low content (up to 1 wt. %) of sintering additives (oxides of rare-earth elements), with high thermal conductivity. The research will be focus on study of the effect of a-SiC and ß-SiC phase content on thermal conductivity of silicon carbide without sintering additives and the second research direction will be focus on study of the effect of amount and type of additives (oxides of rare-earth elements) on the thermal conductivity of SiC composites. In order to achieve project objectives, research focused on preparation of dense silicon carbide or SiC composite at relatively low sintering temperature (up to 2000°C) will be necessary. This process comprises study of SiC powders or SiC composite powders modification by freeze granulator, thermal annealing of granulated powders and followed by granules sintering with field assisted sintering technology (FAST).
Duration:	1.1.2025 – 31.12.2028

3DGALACTYC – Funkcionalizované 3Dsklokeramické membrány na pokročilé fotokatalytické čistenie pitných vôd
Functionalized 3D glass-ceramic membranes for advanced photocatalytic drinking water treatment
Program:	SRDA
Project leader:	Ing. Michálková Monika, PhD.
Annotation:	Micro-pollutants, such as medication, disinfectants, laundry detergents, pesticides, metals, and antibiotic-resistant organisms, can often be found in underground and drinking water. To remove these pollutants, a specialized filtration process with effective porosity in the micro or nano range is required. Membrane processes offer numerous benefits over traditional water treatment methods, including high efficiency, low energy consumption, small space requirements, and environmental friendliness. However, membrane processes can also face challenges, such as scaling, fouling, and degradation, which can negatively impact their performance and lifespan. Efficient and affordable water treatment technologies are critical in today\’s world. The proposed project seeks to create durable, highly porous photocatalytic glass-ceramic membranes supplying specific nano, micro, or macro needs. The project will employ innovative and cost-effective upcycling techniques of pharmaceutical non-recyclable waste glass and various 3D additive techniques to develop the next generation of membranes. Creating these advanced 3D porous structures requires using a suitable precursor with micro-level porosity. This will be achieved through the process of alkaline activation and flame synthesis of pharmaceutical glass frit. TiO2 and Fe2O3 will be added to the glass structure to give photocatalytic properties in the UV-VIS region. The design optimization of membranes will solve the macroporosity. After printing, the final step involves using microwave sintering to create the 3D membranes, which has a lower environmental impact than traditional sintering methods. Additionally, an advanced phase separation process will be applied to achieve porosity on the nano level.
Duration:	1.7.2024 – 30.6.2028

MULCOMAT – Multifunkčné kompozitné materiály pre cielenú detekciu, adsorpciu a dekontamináciu nebezpečných organických molekúl
Multifunctional composite materials for detection, adsorption and decontamination of hazardous organic molecules
Program:	SRDA
Project leader:	Mgr. Jankovič Ľuboš, PhD.
Annotation:	The proposed project is focused on the development of new generation of organo-modified clay minerals using poly(2-alkenyl-2-oxazolines) as representatives of non-ionic, but still highly polar polymers. We expect that organo-modification of montmorillonites using this type of polymers will lead to organoclay materials with more efficient intercalation and thus, with higher adsorption efficiency toward various hazardous organic molecules. The presence of poly(2-alkenyl-2-oxazolines) and poly(2-alkenyl-2-oxazines) in the gallery of clay minerals will ensure catalytic decomposition of hazardous organic molecules. In our case, we use for the evaluation of adsorption and hydrolytic decomposition organophosphate as organic compounds widely used as pesticides and they habe been already used as chemical warfare agents. The combination of improved adsorption and accelerated hydrolytic decomposition of studied organophosphates represents the main innovative aspect of the project and pave an avenue to montmorillonite-based nanoreactors for dephosphorylation reactions of neurotoxic organophosphate agents. Here, we present metal-free catalytic systems that are potentially usable for human and environmental protection. Moreover, poly(2-alkenyl-2-oxazolines) and poly(2-alkenyl-2-oxazines) represent new groups of polymers with reactive pendant 2-oxazoline and 2-oxazine groups, respectively, capable to provide post-polymerization reactions with carboxylic groups. In our case, 2-oxazoline groups will be used for the structural stabilization during melt mixing with carboxylic units containing polymer matrices.
Duration:	1.7.2024 – 30.6.2028

Nová generácia termoelektrických materiálov pre udržateľnú energiu
Nová generácia termoelektrických materiálov pre udržateľnú energiu
Program:	Plán obnovy EÚ
Project leader:	Ing. Tatarko Peter, PhD.
Duration:	1.7.2024 – 30.6.2028

CoSinG – Studené spekanie skiel
Cold sintering of glass
Program:	SRDA
Project leader:	Ing. Michálková Monika, PhD.
Annotation:	Glass is routinely produced on an industrial scale by cooling a glass forming melt. This versatile and well-established method facilitates the production of a large variety of compositions and shapes. However, it has its limits in terms of the maximum cooling rate that can be achieved, preventing the production of compositions with high tendency to crystallization. Also, it cannot produce complex shapes, such as bioactive glass scaffolds or glass filters with hierarchical porosity, or multicomponent and multilayered parts. To prepare such parts, glass powders (frits) are processed by advanced shaping methods known from ceramic technology, such as additive manufacturing or tape casting. The green compacts are then consolidated by viscous flow sintering at temperatures exceeding the transition temperature (Tg) of the respective glass. However, viscous flow sintering often results in partial or complete crystallization of the glass, impairing its properties (e.g. bioactivity, mechanical properties). The proposed project is thus focused on developing and optimising cold sintering of selected types of glass. These include (i) aluminate glasses with a high tendency to crystallisation that cannot be prepared by conventional cooling of the melt, (ii) complex shapes (scaffolds) of bioactive glasses with hierarchical porosity prepared by additive manufacturing, (iii) complex shapes (glass filters for wastewater remediation) from hitherto unrecyclable borosilicate pharmaceutical glass and (iv) multilayered glass structures prepared by tape-casting with tailored gradient of refraction indices and thermal expansion. As the densification of glass via the cold sintering process is not fully understood, fundamental studies of densification mechanisms will be also carried out. The results obtained in the project are of great industrial and scientific interest, contributing to (i) development of a new industrially scalable process of production of glass parts.
Duration:	1.7.2024 – 30.6.2028

TESLOW – Základ k ekologicky udržateľným sodíkovo-iónovým batériám pre nízko nákladovú technológiu
Towards Eco-sustainable Sodium-ion batteries for a LOW-cost technology
Program:	SRDA
Project leader:	doc. Ing. Lenčéš Zoltán, PhD.
Duration:	1.7.2024 – 30.6.2028

Vývoj pokročilých luminiscenčných sklenených 3D štruktúr pomocou aditívnej výroby
Development of advanced luminescent glass 3D structures by additive techniques
Program:	VEGA
Project leader:	Ing. Michálková Monika, PhD.
Annotation:	The main goal of the project is to develop a new generation of luminescent phosphor-in-glass (PiG)optoelectronic materials with high efficiency, low-cost fabrication (3D printing), and tailored luminescenceproperties. Additive manufacturing will enable the combination of mutually supporting phosphors in differentlayers within a single glass matrix, thus improving the optical properties of the final material. In addition, thephosphors used for additive manufacturing will be prepared in spherical shapes – microspheres that can be solidor hollow – to further enhance the efficiency of the phosphor.
Duration:	1.1.2024 – 31.12.2027

Žiadúce a nežiadúce interakcie roztavených fluoridov s materiálmi na báze kritických prvkov
Desirable and undesirable interactions between molten fluorides and materials of critical elements
Program:	VEGA
Project leader:	Ing. Kubíková Blanka, PhD.
Annotation:	The submitted project is focused on the study of desirable and undesirable interactions of molten fluoride systemswith materials based on the selected critical elements, the recycling rate of which is minimal in the EU. In thiscase, controlled physico-chemical processes are considered desirable interactions, in contrast to undesirableinteractions, primarily in connection with the corrosion of construction materials. The research will be focused onthe physicochemical and thermochemical analysis of molten fluorides, the study of solubility/corrosion resistanceof materials in molten salts, the synthesis of new substances, and spectral and diffraction analysis of puresubstances, molten mixtures, and solidified mixtures after experiments.
Duration:	1.1.2024 – 31.12.2027

NEOCAR – Ultra-vysokoteplotné karbidy so zvýšenou oxidačnou odolnosťou
Novel enhanced oxidation-resistant ultra-high temperature carbides
Program:	SRDA
Project leader:	Ing. Tatarko Peter, PhD.
Annotation:	The improvement of oxidation resistance of ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs) has critical importance in meeting the growing need for applications used at temperatures exceeding 2000 °C in oxidizing atmospheres such as hypersonic vehicles and spacecraft. Recently, with the aid of the exploration of multi-principal element ceramics, consisting of four or more different cations or anions stabilized by the configurational entropy, a vast new compositional space has opened up to develop novel UHTCs with enhanced oxidation resistance. However, to design such materials through the prediction of their complex oxidation processes, it is fundamental to establish a comprehensive understanding of the mono and binary transitional metal carbides that is targeted in the present project, something that is currently missing. Thus, the main aim of the project is to develop novel oxidation-resistant UHTCs through a systematic experimental based study in which the high-temperature properties (oxidation/ablation resistance, thermal shock resistance etc.) and mechanical behaviour of mono and binary refractory carbides will be studied. Different secondary phase materials with the incorporation of silicon will also be tested in the form of SiC and transitional metal silicides, which are known as protective glassy phase-forming compounds that can further improve the oxidation resistance of newly developed UHTCs. In addition to the understanding of the oxidation and mechanical behaviour of these ceramics and composites, the prediction of the models established will be validated by the synthesis of new oxidation-resistant 3-, 4- and 5-metal carbide systems that will be also tested experimentally. The accomplishment of the present project will generate fundamental knowledge that is needed for the design of novel more complex multi-principal element ceramics. Filling this lack of knowledge would be of great importance for whole materials science community.
Duration:	1.7.2023 – 30.6.2027

RADLON – Vplyv radiačnej záťaže na sklovláknitú izoláciu z hľadiska recirkulácie chladiva v havarijných podmienkach jadrových elektrární s tlakovodnými reaktormi
Influence of radiation load on fiberglass insulation in terms of refrigerant recirculation in emergency conditions of nuclear power plants with pressurized water reactors
Program:	SRDA
Project leader:	prof. Ing. Liška Marek, DrSc., Dr.h.c.
Annotation:	The aim of the Project is to extend the methodology of verifying the functional capability of emergency core cooling systems in case of loss-of-coolant accidents as well as that of cooling systems intended for severe acc idents from the standpoint of impacts of long-term exposure of thermal insulation to radiation at elevated temperatures and in such a way to actively contribute to increasing the operating safety of nuclear power plants. Within the Project, samples of thermal insulation exposed to accelerated heat and radiation ageing will be investigated. The radiation doses are anticipated to be at the level of a 40-year operation at a dose rate of 10 Gy/h on the primary circuit of a WWER 440 V213 type NPP. Samples treated in such a way will be investigated from the standpoint of changes in their physico-mechanical properties as well as from the standpoint of their chemical resistance to corrosive effects of emergency reactor coolant. However, preparation of the samples by accelerated heat and radiation ageing i s extremely both time-consuming and costly. For instance, to obtain a sufficient radiation dose at a level simulating a 40-year operation (approximately 3500 kGy), irradiation period is needed equal to approximately 1650 h of net irradiation time with an average irradiation dose rate of 2 kGy/h. Irradiation is to be performed at an elevated temperature of 300°C which means that it will have to be performed in a thermal box. That is why it is necessary to develop a procedure for simulation of irradiation effects in order to obtain a sufficient number of samples for integrated testing. A feasible solution seems to be thermo-mechanical loading of the samples since, based on the knowledge obtained so far, thermal insulation fibres under the effect of irradiation at elevated temperature lose their mechanical elasticity and become brittle. In addition, their chemical resistance to corrosion effects of the coolant solution changes.
Duration:	1.7.2023 – 30.6.2027

DCG-XAS – Vývoj pokročilých metód určených na presnú predpoveď a analýzu röntgenových spektier molekúl s otvorenou obálkou
Development of advanced methods for accurate prediction and analysis of X-ray spectra of open-shell species
Program:	SRDA
Project leader:	Mgr. Komorovský Stanislav, PhD.
Annotation:	The main objective is to develop, implement, and apply new methods for accurate prediction and interpretation of electron absorption spectra and non-linear optical processes. The project focuses on open-shell systems that contain elements across the periodic table and on the X-ray spectral region. To this end, an accurate description of relativistic effects is mandatory. The newly developed approaches will be implemented into our in-house program ReSpect, based on the density functional theory, and applied to interesting chemical problems with the help of our broad network of international collaborators. For a successful application of our methods, it is crucial also to implement new innovative tools for interpretation, visualization, and analysis of the calculated results.
Duration:	1.7.2023 – 30.6.2027

Pokročilé materiály na báze anorganických vrstevnatých štruktúr študované modelovým a experimentálnym prístupom
Advanced materials based on the inorganic layered structures studied by model and experimental approaches
Program:	VEGA
Project leader:	Ing. Scholtzová Eva, CSc.
Annotation:	The project presents a combined theoretical and experimental research of selected pollutants adsorbed on the layered structures (LS) based on graphene (G), aluminosilicates (AS) and their modifications with improved physicochemical properties. Pollutants are extracted significantly, e.g., from contaminated waters, by adsorption on these LS. A comparative study on the adsorption effectivity of pollutants by layered structures of the G type (expensive materials) and clays (lower cost) is focused on understanding the interactions responsible for the forming and stability of these complexes. New knowledge about the way of pollutants immobilisation also contributes to the proposal of advanced hybrid materials combining properties of both types of LS applied in green technologies. The outputs from modelling will also interpret the results obtained experimentally to achieve a complex characterisation of the studied advanced materials based on the inorganic layered structures.
Duration:	1.1.2023 – 31.12.2026

ESPILS – Vplyv štrukturálnych substitúcií na vlastnosti anorganických vrstvených štruktúr, základ pre atómovo navrhnuté pokročilé materiály pre zelené technologické aplikácie, študované modelovým prístupom
Effect of structural substitutions on properties of inorganic layered structures, a basis for atomically designed advanced materials for green technological applications, studied by modelling approach
Program:	Plán obnovy EÚ
Project leader:	Ing. Scholtzová Eva, CSc.
Annotation:	The ESPILS project aims to contribute to the elucidation of the adsorption mechanism in wastewater treatment using the example of selected organic pollutants (OP) through a theoretical approach, i.e. molecular simulations. Inorganic layered structures have a vast potential to be effective adsorbents of many pollutants. Molecular simulations also provide a valuable tool for a successful detailed description of the OP adsorption mechanism, saving both money on the chemicals necessary for material synthesis and measurement time needed for their characterisation by experimental methods.
Duration:	1.9.2024 – 31.8.2026

LumiPiG – Development of advanced luminescent glass 3D structures
Development of advanced luminescent glass 3D structures
Program:	Plán obnovy EÚ
Project leader:	Ing. Michálková Monika, PhD.
Annotation:	This project aims to support basic research carried out in Slovakia by an excellent domestic researcher in the R3 phase of her career and to prevent the “brain drain” of domestic top researchers abroad. Support from this call will bring several benefits; in particular, it will increase the capacity of excellent scientists in Slovakia and increase the attractiveness and internationalisation of the Slovak research environment, which will impact a higher level of collaboration with scientific communities abroad.The project\’s primary goal is to develop a new generation of luminescent phosphor-in-glass (PiG) optoelectronic materials with high efficiency, low-cost fabrication (3D printing), and tailored luminescence properties. Additive manufacturing will enable the combination of mutually supporting phosphors in different layers within a single glass matrix, thus improving the optical properties of the final material. In addition, the phosphors used for additive manufacturing will be prepared in spherical shapes – microspheres that can be solid or hollow – to enhance the efficiency of the phosphor further.
Duration:	1.7.2024 – 30.6.2026

Photomat – Fotofunkčné hybridné materiály organických luminofórov a nanočastíc vrstevnatých silikátov
Photofunctional hybrid materials of organic luminophores and nanoparticles of layered silicates
Program:	SRDA
Project leader:	Mgr. Boháč Peter, PhD.
Annotation:	The topic of the project is based on modern trends in materials research, and the experience and recent results of the project team. It was discovered that adsorption, intercalation, or molecular aggregation of specific types of organic molecules can significantly increase their photoactivity, manifesting as an increase in luminescence. The strategy of increasing photoactivity will be the main objective of the project. Each of the phenomena should be applied depending on the molecular structure of the luminophores. The project will focus on hybrids of photoactive organic luminophores and layered silicates. Structurally optimized S,N-heteroaromatic dyes and their ion metal complexes will be prepared within the project. Heteroaromatic systems will be modified by cationic groups or their functionalization with cationic metal ions including Ru(II), Ir(III), Au(III), and others to increase the compatibility of these chromophores with silicates and achieve the required photophysical properties. Appropriate selection of the layered carrier, choice of chemical modification, and suitable conditions for the synthesis of hybrid systems will be the key factors to achieve the project objectives. In addition to improving the properties of molecules, other goals will be to prepare complex functional materials with efficient use of light energy. Here, the organization of molecules in nanostructural hybrids will play a key role to achieve optimal photophysical interactions aimed at specific functionality. In addition to luminescent properties, the aim will be to prepare hybrids with mainly photosensitizing properties. The last step will be the use of nanoparticles for the modification of technical polymers by the formation of nanocomposites. The objective will be obtaining surfaces with photosensitizing and photodisinfection properties, which will be tested for the growth of microbial biofilms.
Duration:	1.7.2023 – 30.6.2026

LaCer – Návrh, analýza a mechanická charakterizácia laminárnej keramiky
Design, analysis and mechanical characterization of laminar ceramics
Program:	Plán obnovy EÚ
Project leader:	Dr. Najafzadehkhoee Aliasghar, Ph.D.
Annotation:	Engineering ceramics, in particular oxide, is a key enabler in different applications, from dental ceramics to substrates for electronic devices. However, their application is limited due to their brittle nature and catastrophic failure. This project aims to exploit the stress generation between the layers of laminar ceramics during sintering to improve the mechanical performance of bulk laminar ceramics. To this end, different ceramic tapes will be prepared, and laminar ceramics with various architectures will be fabricated. The residual stress in bulk laminated ceramics will be tailored to induce crack-arresting properties, and the mechanical properties and the microstructural features of samples will be investigated. Finally, having the digital twins of the laminated ceramics modeled, the generation of stresses and the mechanical performance of samples will be simulated using finite element methods (FEM) to identify the crucial parameters.
Duration:	1.7.2024 – 30.6.2026

NANOCOMENVIRO – Nový tiolom funkcionalizovaný nanokompozit montmorillonit/biochar pre imobilizáciu ťažkých kovov z kontaminovanej záplavovej pôdy
Novel thiol-functionalized montmorillonite/biochar nanocomposite for immobilization of heavy metals from contaminated floodplain soil
Program:	Plán obnovy EÚ
Project leader:	Ing. Slaný Michal, PhD.
Annotation:	Soil contamination by heavy metals is currently a global environmental problem due to the potential transfer of these toxic elements to the biosphere and hydrosphere, posing risks to plants, animals, and especially human health. Toxic metals such as Hg, Cd, As, Tl, Pb, Cu, Ni, and Zn are transported through river water in suspended material or in dissolved form and accumulating in floodplains during floods with low flow velocities. However, our understanding of the biogeochemistry of toxic metals in soils, especially under dynamic redox conditions, is very limited. Therefore, detailed knowledge of the redox behaviour of heavy metals in soil is crucial to comprehend mobilization processes and accurately monitor their release into water under changing redox conditions. It is also important to understand the redox mobilization of heavy metals in the soil so that their hazard potential can be better predicted. Therefore, growing need to find novel, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective materials from abundant resources that can immobilize these dangerous substances in floodplain soils. This project offers a novel and innovative solutions for heavy metal immobilization using thiol-functionalized montmorillonite/biochar nanocomposite from floodplain soil under dynamic environmental (redox) conditions. Such a study has not been performed yet and holds great potential to contribute new knowledge and thus lead to significant improvement environmental quality, application of appropriate management, risk assessment of contaminated floodplain soils as well as improving the quality of soil and plants, which is closely related to human health. The proposed objectives of the project focus on new applications and on previously unexplored step change solutions that will answer the most important questions as well as research and technological development needs, including those that are important on a global scale.
Duration:	1.7.2024 – 30.6.2026

NIPOFABs – Smerom k nanotechnológiám využívajúcim bioaktívne častice/molekuly v boji proti mikrobiálnym biofilmom
Towards nanotechnologies using bioactive particles/molecules in the fight against microbial biofilms
Program:	SRDA
Project leader:	Ing. Pálková Helena, PhD.
Annotation:	The topic of submitted project reflects current scientific challenges using the strategy of an interdisciplinary approach in tackling the highly urgent issues of microbial biofilms. It is focused on the fields of basic and molecular microbiology in association with study of the prevention or eradication of microbial biofilms using novel hybrid materials. In the project, biological research is closely linked to various approaches in the field of the nanomaterial chemistry. The main subject of the study will cover multispecies biofilms, not only composed of bacteria but also of yeasts and their mutual combinations, which reflects their significance in biofilm-associated infections. The tested microorganisms will include Staphylococcus aureus, enterococci, Escherichia coli, and representatives of yeasts of the genus Candida. The formation of biofilms, interspecies interactions, including the role of quorum sensing molecules in these processes, as well as the effectiveness of bioactive particles/molecules in the prevention and eradication of biofilms, including the phenomenon of multidrug resistance, will be studied in detail by modern microbiological methods. Hybrid materials based on inorganic layered nanoparticles in the role of carriers of bioactive organic molecules, in particular photosensitizers, will be used as active materials. Functionalized nanoparticles will be used to modify the surfaces of selected types of polymers often used in medical practice. The aim will be to prepare new or improved materials to achieve maximal antimicrobial effectiveness. The results of the project could bring new knowledge in the topic of microbial biofilms, but also in the preparation of antimicrobial hybrid systems applicable in various fields of nanomedicine.
Duration:	1.7.2022 – 30.6.2026

ComCer – Vývoj nových keramických materiálov komplexného zloženia pre extrémne aplikácie
Development of new compositionally-complex ceramics for extreme applications
Program:	SRDA
Project leader:	Ing. Tatarko Peter, PhD.
Annotation:	The main aim of the proposed project is to develop next generation ultra-high temperature ceramics capable of withstanding temperatures up to 3000°C for propulsion systems, rocket engines and other aerospace applications. This will be achieved by the synthesis of diboride ceramics with unique compositionally -complex structures, comprising of at least five metal elements. A systematic study will be conducted to generate new knowledge on the understanding of the effect of various molar ratios of individual metal cations in diboride structures on the stability, synthesis, sintering and mechanical properties of bulk diboride ceramics. The results will significantly contribute to the expansion of the high entropy ceramics concept with equimolar compositions towards the development of compositionally-complex ceramics with non-equimolar compositions. The project also proposes an innovative way of manufacturing ultra-high temperature ceramics, consisting of the development of ceramic composites based on the high-entropy and compositionally-complex diboride matrix, reinforced with the refractory additives. The output of the project will be new fundamental knowledge on the formation of disordered diboride structures, and their effect on mechanical properties of the materials at room, intermediate, and ultra-high temperatures.
Duration:	1.7.2022 – 30.6.2026

Fluoridové taveninové systémy pre zelenú výrobu hliníka bez produkcie CO2
Molten fluoride systems for green production of aluminium without CO2 emissions
Program:	VEGA
Project leader:	Ing. Šimko František, PhD.
Annotation:	The proposed project is related to complex phase and physico-chemical analysis of multicomponent nMF-AlF3 systems (M = Na, K, n=3-1.2) with the addition of metal oxides Al, Fe, and Ni where compounds based on Fe and Ni are represented corrosion products from the use of inert anodes in aluminium CO2 less production. These are the so-called low-temperature electrolytes, whose research has recently increased attention related to the development and application of inert anodes. The aim of the project will be to define the solubility of oxides/spinels, the phase composition of the systems and to identify the individual components, arising from the interaction between the corrosion products and the electrolyte. These systems will be studied to determine the relationship between the structure and their physicochemical behavior by using either of spectral methods in-situ in the molten state, or by ex-post analysis of the solidified samples, and by physicochemical analysis of high temperature molten systems.
Duration:	1.1.2022 – 31.12.2025

Hydrotermálna syntéza fluoroskandátov alkalických kovov
Hydrothermal synthesis alkali-metal fluoroscandates
Program:	PostdokGrant
Project leader:	RNDr. Demovics Silliková Veronika, PhD.
Annotation:	The presented project aims to systematically synthesize and structurally analyze compounds within the MF–ScF3system (M = Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, and NH4) with the general composition MxScyFz. The hydrothermal synthesis methodin Teflon-lined autoclaves will be employed as the primary approach. The main project objective is to establish acomprehensive framework for synthesizing compounds within this system, with a particular emphasis on monitoringand optimizing factors influencing the synthesis process and final product properties. The project will focus on thepreparation of multifunctional products, with specific interest in achieving thermally induced phase transformations inthe synthesized materials. The successful completion of the project will provide potential applications in the futureincluding the doping of new materials with specific lanthanide fluorides, allowing for the analysis of their luminescentand optical properties. Additionally, the developed synthetic procedure can be extended for the synthesis of ternaryfluorides of other lanthanides. The exploration of hydrothermal synthesis methods and the comparison with traditionalsolid-state conditions adds a novel dimension to the project, providing an opportunity to discover new compoundswith distinct structures and properties.
Duration:	1.7.2024 – 31.12.2025

Translucentné luminiscenčné materály ako inovatívny substrát pre fotokatalytické vrstvy
Translucent luminescent ceramic materials as innovative substrate for photocatalytic layers
Program:	PostdokGrant
Project leader:	Mgr. Petrisková Patrícia, PhD.
Annotation:	This project is focused on the preparation of translucent luminescent ceramic phosphors in the system Mg-Al-O-Nincluding the solid solution MgAlON with a structure of spinel on which TiO2 nanotubes will be prepared with the aimfor their application in photocatalytic waste water cleaning. In the frame of the work several compositions of MgAlONspinels will be studied including the influence of type and amount of lanthanide dopant on the luminescenceproperties of spinel. TiO2 nanotubes will be prepared by the anodic oxidation of Ti layer deposited on the surface ofspinel. The absorption spectrum of TiO2 nanotubes will be widened to the visible light region by doping with nitrogenwith the aim to increase the photocatalytic activity of nanotubes. Finally, the photocatalytic activity of nanotubes will be determined by the degration of Picloram herbicide pollutant.
Duration:	1.7.2024 – 31.12.2025

Vývoj hybridných nanomateriálov s antimokrobiálnymi vlastnosťami založených na vrstevnatých silikátoch a xanténových farbivách
Development of Hybrid Nanomaterials with Antimicrobial Properties based on Layered Silicates and Xantene Dyes
Program:	PostdokGrant
Project leader:	Mgr. Pribus Marek, PhD.
Annotation:	The presented project is focused on the preparation of a nanocomposite material based on a clay mineral – saponite and a photosensitizer – xanthene dye. The main objective of the project is development of a material with a thin layer of nanocomposite on the surface of a polymer matrix with antimicrobial and anti-biofilm properties. At first, hybrid nanomaterial will be prepared in the form of a colloidal dispersion. Then thin films of hybrid nanomaterial will be applied on a surface of polymer matrix. The prepared colloidal dispersions will be characterized by physico-chemical methods such as absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy. The hybrid films deposited on the polymer matrix will be characterized using X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy. Finally, the antimicrobial properties of the prepared nanocomposite materials will be tested.
Duration:	1.7.2024 – 31.12.2025

APSPQ – Umelé fotosyntetické systémy založené na fotoaktívnych molekulách a kvantových bodoch
Artificial photosynthetic systems based on photoactive molecules and quantum dots
Program:	SASPRO
Project leader:	Mgr. Matejdes Marián, PhD.
Annotation:	The presented project deals with the development of a water-dispersible artificial photosynthetic system capable of capturing solar radiation on an area of several thousands of µm2 per particle and utilizing the gained solar energy within photodegradation, photo disinfection, or photocatalytic processes. The energy of the light radiation will be transported to a distance of several tens of µm via a non-radiative or radiative energy transfer mechanism to quantum dots located at the edge of the artificial antenna. After the funneling of the excitation energy to quantum dots, it is expected that this energy will drive at the quantum dot/H2O interface photoactive processes. Besides cadmium-based, it is aimed to develop simultaneously also indium- and zinc-based artificial photosynthetic systems having a much higher probability of being interesting for industrial/commercial applications.
Duration:	1.9.2022 – 31.8.2025

IRMA – Výskum ternárnych fáz v systémoch M-R-F (kde M – Li-Cs, (NH4); R – Sc, Y, Ln) pre vývoj nových multifunkčných materiálov
Investigation of the ternary phases in the systems M-R-F (where M – Li-Cs, (NH4); R – Sc, Y, Ln) for the development of new multifunctional materials
Program:	SASPRO
Project leader:	Matselko Oksana, PhD.
Annotation:	Lack of the information as well as not completeness of the data prevent the application of the compounds in the development of different types of materials. The search of new compounds with appropriate optical and operational properties is of great interest in the field of solid state fluorine chemistry. The proposed project is focused on the ternary fluorides in the systems M-R-F (where M – Li-Cs, (NH4); R – Sc, Y, Ln) with emphasis on the temperature driven solid-solid state phase transformations and photoluminescent properties of compounds with further establishment of the regularities of the structural transformations and changes in properties depending on the M and R content. The main challenge in such kind of research is that it is hard to predict which compound is capable for such transformations until all experimental data are obtained. To shed more light on this issue synthesis of pure compounds, analysis of their thermodynamic data, solid-solid phase transformations as well as solution of the high temperature crystal structures from the X-ray diffraction data (including synchrotron experiments) and properties measurements are suggested.
Duration:	1.9.2022 – 31.8.2025

BENTONITE – GAP – Bentonit: strategická surovina Slovenska – inovatívne hodnotenie zdrojov a ich kvality pre jej efektívne využívanie
Bentonite: Slovak strategic raw material – Innovative assessment of bentonite quality and origin for its efficient use
Program:	SRDA
Project leader:	RNDr. Madejová Jana, DrSc.
Annotation:	Bentonite is an important industrial raw material. Due to the high amount of clay minerals from the smectite group, bentonite has unique properties, e.g. high swelling capacity, plasticity, high specific surface area, cation exchange capacity and low hydraulic conductivity. Due to these properties bentonites have broad range of possible applications. Consequently, worldwide bentonite production is constantly increasing. Slovak republic (SR) is one of the world\’s leading bentonite producers and bentonites belong to the strategic raw materials in SR. In the last 10-15 years, several new bentonite deposits have been opened in SR, most of which have never been studied in detail.Which is one of the causes that the potential of Slovak bentonites is not fully utilized. One of the objectives of the project is therefore the comprehensive characterization of bentonites from new deposits. The mineral and chemical composition of bentonites, their physico-chemical, mechanical, and rheological properties will be determined. The obtained results will help to better understand the geology and genesis of bentonite deposits which may lead to thediscovery of other economic accumulations of bentonites. The main contribution of the project lies in the rational, economical, and efficient use of domestic raw materials which will lead to the long-term sustainability of bentonite exploitation in SR. The way in which the proposed changes will be implemented is highly innovative. The main application outputs of the project such as: passports for the optimal utilization of different qualitative types of bentonites, including economic analysis, 3D model of bentonite quality and geological model of selected bentonite deposit, will contribute to achieve this ambitious goal. The multidisciplinary team of experts on domestic and worldbentonites in cooperation with major bentonite producer in SR, REGOS, s.r.o. is guarantee of successful solution ofthe proposed project.
Duration:	1.1.2021 – 30.6.2025

Hybridné sústavy zložené z nanočastíc vrstevnatých kremičitanov a luminiscenčných komplexných zlúčenín irídia (III)
Hybrid systems consisting of layered silicate nanoparticles and luminescent iridium(III) complex compounds.
Program:	Návratová projektová schéma
Project leader:	Mgr. Šimonová Tímea, PhD.
Annotation:	Synthesis and study of cyclometalated Ir(III) complexes containing heteroaromatic ligands have become the subject of intensive research in recent years. Due to their luminescent and interesting electrochemical properties, they have become promising compounds in various application areas of materials science. The subject of the research is the preparation and characterization of new hybrid systems based on the Ir(III) complex ([Ir(2-phenylpyridine)2(2,2‘-dibenzo[d]thiazole)]PF6) and layered silicates from the smectite group. The mutual interaction of selected components will be studied after functionalization of smectite particles in hybrid colloidal systems, as well as in thin films. Based on the phenomena observed in the case of heterogeneous systems of smectites and various types of organic chromophores – such as adsorption- and intercalation-induced emission – it can be assumed that there will be a significant improvement in the photophysical properties also in the case of the luminescent Ir(III) complex.
Duration:	1.7.2024 – 30.6.2025

NanoBioFit – Nanoštrukturované, funkčne navrstvené a bio-inšpirované 3D iplantáty na báze titánu
Nanostructured, functionally graded, and bioinspired 3D Ti-based implants
Program:	SRDA
Project leader:	doc. Ing. Hnatko Miroslav, PhD.
Annotation:	In general, patient response to implants is strongly dependent on the host tissue ─ implant interface because processes such as healing, osteolysis, and infection take place specifically at this interface. Therefore, modification and tailoring of transplants surface properties are attractive methods to trigger and accelerate healing processes and to reduce the possibility of osteolysis and infection.The main goal of the project is oriented towards improving the adhesion of bio-coatings on titanium alloy surfaces and ensure the enhancement of bio-compatibility of the bio-inert implants. Therefore, the main goal will be divided into two interconnected parts.The first part will be devoted to electropolishing of titanium and titanium-based alloys. This electrochemical surface treatment is generally considered as one of the most efficient, convenient and adaptable technique for the improvement of the physical and mechanical surface properties of materials.The second part of the project will deal with the preparation of bio-compatible surface layer on Ti implants by:- the formation of TiO2 nanotube arrays by anodic oxidation of Ti-based alloy – electrophoretic deposition (EPD) of coatings based on bio-composites such as polymers doped with various bioactive glass prepared by glass melting or sol-gel process (with possible antibacterial and inflammatory effect).Introduction of the convenient surface treatment process together with highly bioactive coating materials on bioinert Ti-based 3D implants will allow us to provide personalized, well-fitting implants without the need of additional medical treatment. Significant enhancement of patient comfort together with the reduction of the medical costs will be the main benefits of the presented project.
Duration:	1.8.2021 – 30.6.2025