Skip to main content
Skip header

In our laboratory we focus on syntheses of nanocomposite materials, the study of their structure and properties. In syntheses, we place emphasis not only on reproducibility, but also on ecological safety and economic efficiency. We characterize the structure of nanomaterials with a wide range of instrumental methods, but especially with X-ray diffraction analysis and Raman and infrared spectroscopy. To study the microstructure, we use digital microscope able to create a 3D views, to measure optical properties, we use UV-VIS and diffuse reflectance spectrophotometry. Photocatalytic activity and electrical conductivity are measured using established methods. We supplement the experimental data with the results of computer simulations based on molecular mechanics and dynamics, including simulated X-ray diffraction. In our research, we cooperate with a number of laboratories not only at VŠB-TUO.

Research focus

  • Nanocomposites based on clay minerals modified with photoactive nanoparticles (TiO2, ZnO, ZnS).
  • Nanocomposites based on clay minerals intercalated with conductive polymers (polyaniline, polypyrrole).
  • Surface-modified nanofibers.
  • Long-term monitoring of changes in the properties of nanomaterials.
  • Impact of nanomaterials on the environment and their interaction with organisms.

Offered services

  • X-ray diffraction analysis
  • Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy
  • Raman spectroscopy
  • UV-VIS spectroscopy and DRS (diffusion reflectance) spectrophotometry
  • Optical microscopy
  • Biodeterioration - determination of the resistance of surfaces to overgrowth with biofilm
  • Determination of acute toxicity using green algae
  • Determination of photocatalytic activity using established method

Partnership

Contact

doc. Ing. Jonáš Tokarský, Ph.D.
e-mail:
phone: +420 597 321 606+420 597 321 519

Research Team

Equipment

Publication

3D map of surface morphology created using a digital confocal microscope.
Molecular simulation using force fields allows to work with
Atomic stacking in FCC close packed structure visualized by computer
Scanning electron microscope image of nanostructured ZnO, which exhibits strong photocatalytic activity due to its large surface area.
Average length of roots of plants germinating in a presence of nanoparticles allows to determine the phytotoxicity of the nanoparticles.
Kaolinite particles incorporated into electrospun polyurethane.
2D map created by Raman microspectroscopy shows distribution of graphite (red) and multilayer graphene (green) on surface of sample.
Measurement of sample
Discoloration of the originally orange solution of AO7 dye proves photocatalytic activity of studied nanomaterial.
Transmission electron microscopy image of electrically conductive graphitic nanostructures on silicate particles.