Objective
Clusters are aggregates of atoms or molecules with a well-defined size varying from a few constituents to several tens of thousands. They are the link between single atoms or molecules on one side and bulk matter on the other side. They provide the keys that explain how conventional matter builds up step by step and eventually finds its crystalline structure, physical and chemical properties. By studying clusters we wish to answer such fundamental questions as to which size has a given bulk property being reached.
Atomic and molecular clusters are actually another form of matter. The finite nature of the number of constituents leads to novel structural and thermodynamic properties having no equivalent in the bulk. In metallic clusters, the electronic states at low temperature consist of discrete, separated levels. This structure should modify considerably the optical, magnetic, and super-conducting properties compared to those of the bulk metal. Experimental measurements carried out in recent years confirm these special properties. The study of phase changes in clusters has revealed the full richness (and complexity) of finite systems: one observes rapid variations of thermodynamic properties but no discontinuity, and bands of phase coexistence rather than simple curves.
Theoretical methods for describing all sorts of clusters have undergone rapid developments in recent years, whether these techniques are analytical or numerical. Nowadays it is possible to consider problems, both fundamental and applied, that were previously inaccessible. By combining techniques from statistical physics, and numerical simulation, we can thus understand why for instance certain substances become glasses while others evolve toward perfectly regular structures.
There is today a need for bringing together both basic and most recent theoretical achievements towards an unified approach of cluster science. On the other hand, the effort toward miniaturization in microelectronics and micromechanics will probably more and more require the concepts involved here. A school centred on clusters and nanoparticles would thus surely respond to a need of great topicality.
ftp://ftp.cordis.lu/pub/improving/docs/HPCF-1999-00075-1.pdf(opens in new window)
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.
- engineering and technology materials engineering amorphous solids
- natural sciences physical sciences electromagnetism and electronics microelectronics
- engineering and technology nanotechnology nano-materials
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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.
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.
Call for proposal
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Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Funding Scheme
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.
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.
Coordinator
France
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.