Intelligent Optical Nanomaterials (IONs)

Research group 

Patrizia Canton, Full Professor
Riccardo Marin, Associate Professor

Research topics

Intelligent Optical Nanomaterials (IONs) group works at the intersection of chemistry, physics, and materials science, leveraging advanced data analysis to develop innovative solutions for tomorrow’s challenges. The main research lines are:

Development of novel optical materials

We cover a broad spectrum of optical nanomaterials, including photoluminescent and plasmonic nanoparticles. We mainly focus on novel inorganic nanomaterials, including lanthanide-doped nanoparticles and semiconductor nanocrystals, but also explore Multifunctional opto-magnetic coordination compounds. In our investigation, we aim for a complete understanding of the growth mechanisms, also exploring the use of precursors coming from waste materials from industry according to the principles of circular economy.

Advanced characterization at the nanoscale

We study the morphology and structure of nanomaterials at the atomic level to unveil complex (micro)structure-property relationships. To carry out our investigation, we employ transmission and scanning-transmission electron microscopy (TEM, STEM), making use of energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, high-resolution imaging in both TEM and STEM modes, and electron diffraction also at the single nanoparticle level (Nano Beam Diffraction, NBD).

Intelligent optical imaging and sensing

Optical nanomaterials offer a unique platform for the design of smart luminescent sensors capable of probing in a remote way physical and chemical parameters of the environment with which they are in contact. Optical sensing requires a calibration of the changes induced by the external parameter on the optical properties of the species used as (nano)probe. In our group, we tailor the surface chemistry of the nanomaterials to maximize compatibility with the environment of interest, increase selectivity towards the parameter of choice, and employ machine learning algorithms to improve the performance of the sensing approach. The main testing grounds for the technologies we develop are biological (micro)environments, including cells and – through collaborations – animal models.

Last update: 14/04/2025