Project Code: PN-IV-PCB-RO-MD-2024-0541
Title: New Approaches in the Optical Characterization of Mixed Semiconductor Oxides Based on Correlative Nanoscale Methods
Duration: September 2025 – August 2027
Total budget: 750.000 RON
Project Area of Research:
Main domain: 1. Digitalisation, Industry and Space (ASC)
Main sub-domain: 1.1 Open strategic autonomy in digital and emerging technologies with a Human-centric focus
Secondary sub-domain: 1.3 Clean industry, circular economy and guaranteed supply of raw materials
Keywords: optical nanoscopy; mixed semiconductor oxides; microelectronics
Summary:
Semiconductor mixed oxides (SMOs) are crucial in sensing applications due to their enhanced sensitivity, selectivity, and stability, which enable precise detection of gases and chemicals essential for environmental monitoring, industrial safety, and healthcare diagnostics. Optical microscopy and optical nanoscopy are essential for characterizing SMOs, as they provide detailed insights into the structural, morphological, and surface properties at micro- and nanoscale resolutions, enabling optimization of sensor performance for high sensitivity and selectivity. In this project we will bridge the extensive expertise of the Tehnical University of Moldova on SMOs, and on their characterization with conventional tools, routinely used in this field, with the expertise of the National University of Science and Technology Politehnica Bucharest in emerging optical nanoscopy techniques. This effort will lead to the design and demonstration of novel characterization workflows for SMOs, that build on complementary techniques, and that bridge large-scale structural information with high-resolution, spatially-resolved analyses of electronic and optical behavior. This combined approach will allow for a comprehensive understanding of how structural, electronic, and chemical features interact within mixed oxide semiconductors, enabling the optimization of SMOs for applications in sensing technologies
Partners:
Photon-X Spectrum Lab, CAMPUS Research Institute, National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, Romania
Center for Nanotechnology and Nanosensors, Technical University of Moldova, Republic of Moldavia
