Eigencolloids as building blocks: fundamental properties and applications.

At present, the surprising properties of transition metal eigencolloids (TME) just start to emerge. Our unique expertise in stabilizing TM oxyhydrates and in assembly of hierarchical materials enables us to determine the physicochemical nature of and to develop state of the art catalysts from TMEs. Mastering the formation and properties of TMEs will enable us to use them as building blocks for increasingly structured, hierarchical materials. These materials will not only be superior catalysts in terms of activity but also exploit state of the art shape selectivity. This ambitious goal requires detailed fundamental knowledge of the basic factors governing assembly, chemical stability and behavior of TMEs. The ultimate goal of this research project is the development of a molecular level eigencolloid description which is linked to the global, macroscopic parameters of the solution. A combination of fundamental studies of eigencolloid properties in dispersed state and during self organisation will increase insight into their basic physicochemical nature. At the same time we will generate world-class expertise in material design. The fundamentals derived during this project will also lead to applications in the environmental technology sector such as incorporation into membranes (e.g. for water treatment) or enhancing the safety case for geological storage of high-level radioactive waste.

Keywords:Environmental chemistry, Catalysis, Advanced functional materials, Transition metals, Colloids, Eigencolloids

Disciplines:Analytical chemistry, Macromolecular and materials chemistry, Physical chemistry, Ceramic and glass materials, Materials science and engineering, Semiconductor materials, Other materials engineering