Project description
A more precise, flexible and dynamic method of self-assembly
Innovative self-assembly techniques for building nanoscale structures are advancing fields that include materials science and biotechnology. The ERC-funded CASAlibra project will apply a cutting-edge method called Casimir self-assembly, which uses quantum forces to create highly precise and adaptable systems. Unlike traditional techniques, this approach leverages the Casimir effect – a phenomenon related to quantum vacuum fluctuations – to enable assembly with nanometre-level accuracy. By combining quantum electrodynamics principles, Casimir physics, strong light-matter interactions and non-equilibrium thermodynamics CASAlibra will develop a new, highly controlled, versatile and unique form of self-assembly. The proposed approach will help overcome existing limitations in complexity and control. Project activities will enhance self-assembly precision while also creating new possibilities for creating dynamic and scalable systems.
Objective
Self-assembly is an important area of research that has numerous practical applications, including in the fields of materials science, nanotechnology, and biotechnology. Despite its widespread use, conventional self-assembly is limited, especially in terms of complexity, scalability, and dynamical control. In this context, a promising solution to these challenges is the use of Casimir self-assembly, which leverages the fundamental physics of the Casimir effect. The Casimir effect refers to the force that arises between two closely spaced metallic plates in free space, which results from zero-point fluctuations of the quantum vacuum. This effect can be harnessed for self-assembly by engineering the surface properties of the plates and the surrounding environment.
In my proposal, I will utilize the interplay between fundamental quantum electrodynamics, Casimir physics, strong light-matter interactions, and non-equilibrium thermodynamics to develop a new, highly controlled, versatile and unique form of self-assembly. Crucially, the employed methodology enables the observation of the Casimir effect in aqueous solutions at room temperature with unprecedented precision of 1 nm. This method can be combined with micro- and nanofluidics, frustrated and templated self-assembly approaches, and non-equilibrium thermodynamics. Additionally, the unique combination of self-assembled Fabry-Pérot microcavities and the creation of nano-channels with exceptional material and heat transport properties further enhances the methodology's versatility. By combining these fields, I aim to create a new type of self-assembly that overcomes the limitations of conventional methods, providing greater complexity, flexibility, and dynamical control. In doing so, I will open up new avenues for fundamental physics, materials science, nanotechnology, and biotechnology, and lay the foundation for a new era of self-assembly that is more dynamic, sophisticated, and visionary.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
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Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2024-ADG
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
412 96 Goteborg
Sweden
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