Nanophases in bulk materials. Nanocomposites.

Assoc. Prof. N. Stoichev - Thematic Leader

Key topics are related to nanoscale phenomena in solid media and at liquid/solid interface.  

Compacting of nanoparticles, including scientific and technological studies of nanoparticles' processing into bulk material. The aim of this research field is to explore abilities to preserve the new and/or bettered properties of nanoparticles. 

Nano-sized phases study during processes of decomposition and transformations in non-equilibrium and amorphous state of materials. The goal of studies is to understand the mechanisms of nucleation and restricted growth of nanosized phases in bulk material. By means of physical and chemical processes or mechanical mixing and compacting it could result in a nanocrystalline material. 

Metal matrix and polymer based nanocomposites. In case of in-situ metal matrix composites the main advantage is the achievement of “natural” strong contact between the matrix and hardening nanoparticles. In all other composite materials with nanoparticles embedded in the initially liquid matrix the goal is to separate and disperse the nanoparticles evenly in the matrix before its freezing or hardening, which could result in fully effective nanocomposites. 

Web-addresses of laboratories in Bulgaria working on the above topics  

1. http://www.uctm.acad.bg/, University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy, Sofia Bulgaria: Institute of rubber; Institute of lubricants; 

2. http://www.space.bas.bg/material/, Space Research Institute, BAS. Department of Space Materials and Nanotechnologies.

3. http://www.ims.bas.bg/, Institute of Metal Science, BAS. Department 6 “Physics and physical chemistry of metals and alloys” 

4. http://ie-bas.dir.bg/Departments/Micromagnet.htm, Institute of Electronics, Laboratory “Microwave magnetics” 

5. http://www.polymer.bas.bg/lab/lbap/, Institute of Polymers, BAS, Laboratory of Bioactive Polymers

6. http://www.clphchm.bas.bg/, Central Laboratory of Physico-Chemical Mechanics