We are exploring the interface between chemistry and physics of novel correlated electron systems and other bulk or nanoscale quantum materials that tackle energy-efficient technologies.

Activity:

In order to study different aspects of the structure, dynamics and functionality of new materials, the team engages:

• preparative solid-state chemistry & nanochemistry lab portfolios; 
  • various synthetic techniques including sol-gel and redox precipitation processes, in addition to conventional solid-state and colloidal chemistry high-temperature methods are been implemented. Nanocrystal functionalisation and bulk sample growth optimisations, with tools working at elevated temperatures (up to 1850 K), are available. There is great expertise in handling air-and moisture- sensitive compounds under anaerobic conditions, involving Schlenk lines and dry-box techniques.

• experimental stations for automated physical property measurements;
  • materials bearing electronic phenomena and phase transitions, are tackled by a multimodal approach requiring strategic collaborations and appropriate development of in-house magnetic, dielectric, transport experimental and spectroscopic probes that are integrated in sophisticated sample environments, where applied electromagnetic stimuli can be flexibly utilized (e.g. low temperatures, high magnetic fields and elevated pressures).

• unique experimental tools (sought through peer-reviewed proposals) at European (ISIS-UK; PSI-Switzerland; ESRF-FR) and US (SNS-ORNL, NSLS-BNL) user-facilities of neutron, synchrotron X-ray and muon science.