Start of funding 01.07.2005

Novel Si based nanomaterials for biotechnology and energy applications

Dr. habil. Dmitri Kovalev
Technische Universität München

Santosh Limaye
Vesta Sciences
Nanotechnology



One of the strategic objectives of the nanotechnology concept is the development of new materials having nanometer sizes which have entirely new physical properties and, therefore, new functionality. Currently, a proprietary technology has been developed to produce a very high surface area material based on the silicon material produced by Vesta Ceramics and an associated company Vesta Sciences. This material has unique optical properties based on its nanocrystalline nature. In addition, the ability to tailor its surface chemistry, in conjunction with the high specific surface area, has the potential to impact a diverse range of applications such as adsorbents, catalysts, photosensitizers and carriers for drug delivery. Group of Dr. Kovalev from TUM will be collaborating to study the optical and photosensitizing properties of this material and also helping to optimize the synthesis based on their expertise in optics and synthesis of nanosilicon-based materials. While his group will be focusing on studying the fundamental properties and characterization, researchers at Vesta Sciences will be involved in developing applications based on the understanding derived from the fundamental studies.