Objetivo
Interface Controlled Nucleation and Crystallisation for Nanoparticle Synthesis (INTERCONY) is a materials science proposal bringing together theoretical studies, computer simulations and experimental studies on the formation of interfaces during nucleation and crystal growth in liquids. The consortium is a strongly interdisciplinary team consisting of groups, involved in materials science research (glass), physics (computer simulation, transmission electron microscopy), physical chemistry (theory of nucleation and crystallisation) as well as Europe's leading supplier of special glasses, engaged in glass research, development and production.
If a crystal is formed in a multi-component liquid, it does not possess the same chemical composition as the liquid. Hence, in highly viscous liquids, the composition of the liquid will change near the emerging crystals. Such interface can form a diffusional barrier, which leads to a decay in crystal growth velocity. Since in the latter case crystal growth is notably hampered, the formation of a high volume concentration of nano- crystals with narrow size distribution is facilitated.
INTERCONY will go beyond a purely thermodynamic and kinetic theory for nucleation and crystal growth by including a completely new approach taking into account the structure of the liquid. This is done by combining percolation theory with the theories of nucleation and crystal growth. Derived from fundamental studies, INTERCONY will furthermore provide technical guidelines for the preparation of nano glass-ceramics with emphasis on multifunctional materials especially for novel photonic applications. Results obtained within the proposed work program will drastically extent the knowledge on interfaces in multifunctional materials. This is of special importance for photonic materials, which are considered to be a critical driver for information technology.
Ámbito científico
Tema(s)
Convocatoria de propuestas
FP6-2004-NMP-TI-4
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