Research themes

Among the many aspects of functional materials, QCAM focusses on three fundamental research themes, polymers, nanoscience and self-assembly/additive manufacturing, which pave the way for materials, devices and technologies addressing some of our society’s most pressing challenges. These align with the three key applications our researchers work on: biomedical, energy and sustainable development.

The strategic approach to research at QCAM builds on the complementarity between the three fundamental research themes, laying the foundations for the development of practical applications. The intrinsic synergy and feedback loops contribute to a coherent and robust research programme. In addition, most members belong to more than one theme, usually a fundamental theme along with one or more applied ones; this facilitates transdisciplinary collaboration leading to broad-scope research.

Polymers

QCAM brings together Quebec’s leading experts in the tailored synthesis of functional polymers, their physicochemical characterisation and simulations. These polymers have one defining feature: the presence of chemical functional groups that confer specific properties (optical, electrical, magnetic, catalytic, molecular recognition, mechanical). This theme is closely complementary to applied ones.

Sub-theme 1 – Fundamental aspects: synthesis and simulation The fundamental understanding of polymers is essential for interpreting macroscopic properties. To reduce the environmental impacts of polymers, our researchers develop more affordable synthetic routes (i.e. direct heteroarylation, or synthesis from polylactide precursors). Their fine-tuning will call for complementary multi-scale simulations that allow researchers to understand measurable properties from a molecular perspective. In turn, this will enable the design of high-performance functional materials.

Sub-theme 2 – Functional polymers Building directly on the previous research sub-theme, Functional polymers aims to engineer polymers that feature specific properties, such as bioactive/biocompatible polymers (drug delivery carriers; prosthetic materials for better implant integraton); photo/electroactive polymers (conducting polymers free of organometallic compounds) and biodegradable polymers (cellulose derivatives for flexible electronics). This sub-theme feeds into all the three applied research themes.

Sub-theme 3 – Hybrid materials To harness the full potential of functional materials, QCAM researchers explore a broad range of systems: organometallic polymers (i.e. for light-emitting diodes); copolymers synthesised using statistical polymerisation; protein-polymer composites; auxetic polymers (i.e. polymers with a negative Poisson coefficient) functionalised with nanoparticles.

Nanosciences

This theme deals with the design, study, synthesis and characterization of functional materials at the nanoscale. Its defining feature lies in the synergy between theory and experiments. In addition, this theme, very complementary to self-assembly/additive manufacturing, lays the foundations for research towards applications.

Sub-theme 1 – Functional nanomaterials Morphology, structure (e.g. crystalline phases) and composition: a thorough understanding of these aspects allows our members to design, synthesize and functionalize materials with the desired functionalities. Our work addresses the entire range of nanomaterials: 1D (nanotubes, nanowires), 2D (graphene and derivatives; Van der Waals heterostructures) and 3D (high-entropy nanoalloys, luminescent nanoparticles, quantum dots, dendrimers) architectures. The improvement of synthetic routes, for example with the aim of combining efficiency and reduction of by-products, is also the subject of our work.

Sub-theme 2 – Biomimetic architectures This theme aims to modify existing biological architectures in order to functionalize them. Examples include the incorporation of desired properties (fluorescence, conductivity, sensitivity to stimuli) into biomaterials by genetic engineering, or the design of composite architectures interfacing biomaterials and inorganic materials. Biomaterials can also serve as a degradable matrix for the synthesis of other nanomaterials. One of the objectives of this theme is to produce functional materials or devices (e.g. sensors) with a very reduced ecological footprint.

Sub-theme 3 – Characterisation and theoretical study of nanomaterials This theme is divided into two complementary sections: 1) experimental methods to determine specific properties of nanomaterials; 2) simulations and modeling allowing these properties to be understood and predicted. The first part concerns, for example, terahertz microscopy or the study of phase changes by dynamic transmission microscopy. The second brings together DFT simulations (to determine, for example, the electronic density of states), deep learning and modeling of experimental measurements (for example, Raman spectra). This theme, a new addition to our scientific programme, draws in part on the expertise of new QCAM members.

Self-Assembly / Additive manufacturing

Since the creation of QCAM, this theme has been one of the Centre’s key strengths. Based on expertise developed over several decades, research into self-assembly will take on new challenges, such as additive manufacturing. This theme, complementary to research on polymers and nanoscience, aims to assemble the infinitely small to dream big.

Sub-theme 1 – Interface design The surface composition and morphology determines many properties. The aim of our work is to design, characterise and modify interfaces at the molecular level. To do this, we rely on state-of-the-art characterisation techniques (microscopy, e.g. atomic force, Brewster angle or electron microscopy; Raman, DRX) and, above all, the expertise of our research professionals. We work on two main families of interfaces: 1) “hard”, such as metals or oxides, crucial for catalysis; 2) “soft”, such as polymers. Anti-icing coatings result from joint research on both types of interface.

Sub-theme 2 – Bottom-up assembly of nanostructures Understanding self-assembly enables the creation of complex architectures composed of elementary molecular entities. These include nucleic acids (“DNA nanotechnology”), polymers (e.g. block copolymers) and lipids, as well as complexes based on molecular recognition (e.g. aptamers). Chirality often plays a key role. The resulting architectures can serve, for example, as drug carriers. The extraordinary efficacy of mRNA vaccines, using lipid nanoparticles that protect and carry mRNA, demonstrates the tangible impact of this research.

Sub-theme 3 – Porous materials This theme deals with the synthesis and characterization of crystalline and solid structures with controlled porosity. Of particular interest are metal-organic framework materials (MOFs), which are the focus of intense collaborative research on gas storage and conversion (e.g. CO₂ valorisation). Then there are mixed crystals or covalent organic framework structures (COFs), which can display dynamic properties thanks to reversible chemical bonds.

Sub-theme 4 – Liquid crystals Presenting a strong synergy with polymer research, this theme is dedicated to materials that resist crystallisation to form liquid crystal phases. These materials include polymers and hybrids with nanoparticles that can impart specific functions to the liquid crystal. Another distinctive feature of liquid crystals is the response to stimuli, which paves the way for technological applications (actuators, flexible robots).

Sub-theme 5 – Additive manufacturing An eminently cross-disciplinary sub-theme that we approach from a unique standpoint: that of molecular assembly. In particular, we work on: 1) the development of printing materials (inks, polymers), 2) their physicochemical properties (rheology), 3) their functionalisation; 4) the physicochemical processes during printing. This theme also includes micro- and nanofabrication of sensors, actuators, microsystems, etc. Additive manufacturing will unlock revolutionary structures and devices, while enabling less material-intensive processes.

Advanced materials for biomedical applications

This theme aims to develop, fine-tune and characterise new materials for medical applications. Specifically, QCAM researchers leverage bio-derived, synthetic or hybrid materials to enable doctors to repair, regenerate or replace human tissues, organs and other complex structures. In this respect, the research is structured into three sub-themes, namely 1) diagnostics ; 2) therapy; 3) the structural study of tissue/organs and their regeneration. Additive manufacturing plays an increasingly important role across all three sub-themes.

Sub-theme 1 – Materials for diagnostics This sub-theme aims to engineer materials able to monitor the human body to pinpoint the origin of pathologies and to follow their evolution in order to provide a precise and early diagnosis. For instance, our researchers design molecules that can probe pharmacodynamics or pharmacokinetic responses associated with cancer, viral illnesses or hypercholesterolemia. We also develop metallic or doped nanoparticles that specifically target a given pathology or that improve the resolution of various medical imaging techniques. In this respect, our researchers also work on cutting-edge approaches to diagnosis, such as nanoprobes for cellular imaging, peptide monolayers sensitive to biochemical ligands, or microneedles for the detection of various skin biomarkers.

Sub-theme 2 – Materials for therapy Therapeutic protocols for certain pathologies may involve using functional materials tailored for molecular or cellular targets. Thus, QCAM researchers develop, for instance, gold nanoparticles leading to an increased uptake of ophthalmic drugs in the cornea. Materials mimicking psoriatic skin allow our researchers to engineer drug delivery carriers specific to this pathology. DNA-based or polymer-based architectures also play a key role in the controlled release of drugs. In addition, QCAM researchers leverage the self-assembly of nanotube or nanosphere materials and 3D printing to open up new therapeutic approaches for cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Sub-theme 3 – Structural study of tissues/organs, their fabrication and regeneration This research track brings together projects that aim to repair or replace human tissues or organs. For instance, our researchers develop biodegradable alloys with properties that restore the original diameter of atherosclerotic arteries or stenosed urethras. In addition, we investigate biomimetic materials for the treatment of vascular disorders. QCAM also focusses on innovative treatments for diabetes based on functional materials that encapsulate pancreatic islets. Our researchers exploit surface functionalisation to assemble peptide motifs that enhance the adhesion, the proliferation and the differentiation of mature or stem cells for vascular applications. Lastly, our research teams also build bio-scaffoldings that promote angiogenesis in bioreactors.

Advanced materials for energy applications

This theme highlights QCAM’s key contribution to two strategic sectors (batteries and hydrogen) that have drawn significant investment from the Quebec government. Addressing materials study and design, our research complements the work of other strategic clusters, such as RQEI, focussing on devices rather than materials. Research under the energy theme will play a central role in achieving the Sustainable development goal number 7 (Affordable and clean energy), as well as in the transition towards a more sustainable society.

Sub-theme 1 – Batteries This research track directly aligns with Quebec’s rapidly-developing battery value chain. It contributes to the improvement of the well-established Li-ion battery and to the development of alternative battery chemistries. More specifically, our researchers develop Si-based anodes and engineer high-potential cathodes using combinatorial methods. In addition, we also investigate battery structure by in-situ characterisation or deep-learning techniques. As for post-Li batteries, our researchers focus on electrolytes and electrodes for solid-state batteries, in close collaboration with QCAM members specialising in polymers and nanoscience. Na-ion batteries are also a focus of our scientific programme, along with Li-S and Zn-air batteries. New-generation liquid electrolytes (e.g. ionic liquids) and battery recycling are also of note, with the latter also falling under the theme “materials for sustainable development”.

Sub-theme 2 – Hydrogen technologies this research track contributes to the broader Vallée de la transition énergétique project, through the involvement of our members at UQTR. It focusses on materials for hydrogen production, storage and use in energy technology. For instance, our researchers work on catalysts for water (photo)electrolysis, H₂ storage alloys and catalysts for fuel cell anodes and cathodes. Advances in nanoscience (synthesis and characterisation) often underpin the development of materials for hydrogen technologies.

Sub-theme 3 – Photovoltaics A key technology for sustainable energy production, solar energy generation relies on advanced materials that enable the design of high-yield and low-cost cells. QCAM researchers primarily focus on two broad classes of materials: polymers and inorganic materials (perovskites, n– or p-type semiconductors). In addition, we also investigate hybrid or supramolecular architectures (e.g. covalent organic frameworks) and electron donors or acceptors.

Sub-theme 4 – Decarbonation and energy efficiency A cross-disciplinary research track, it spans two topics 1) improving industrial and metallurgical processes through electrification, or using novel catalysts and reactor materials (e.g. innovative electrodes and cells for aluminium electrolytic production); 2) materials for the (electrochemical) reduction of CO₂ into valuable products, such as sustainable fuels.

Advanced materials for sustainable development

This broad research theme bridges QCAM’s three fundamental themes and the environmental sciences to contribute to achieving several Sustainable development goals (SDG). In fact, meeting these ambitious targets will require high-performance materials with a lower environmental footprint, as well as a deeper understanding of environmental systems at the molecular level.

Sub-theme 1 – Sustainable materials and processes: from design to recycling (SDG 9,12,13) The recycling of advanced materials has become a central focus of QCAM’s scientific programme. For instance, our researchers work on sustainable leaching processes to recover valuable metals from printed circuit boards. The recycling of graphite and cathode metals from Li-ion batteries is also of note.

Sub-theme 2 – Materials for environmental monitoring (SDG 6,11). This is one of the long-standing research tracks at QCAM; it addresses the design of sensors that target specific analytes and it now harnesses the properties of novel active materials (2D nanomaterials such as graphene and metal dichalcogenides) as well as advanced fabrication processes (printed electronics).

Sub-theme 3 – Study and detection of pollutants (SDG 6, 14, 15). QCAM researchers approach contaminants as just another class of (undesirable) functional materials. This research track focusses in particular on “emerging contaminants” (micro- or nanoplastics; per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds; runoff from mining activities). In addition, this track also addresses contaminants in challenging complex matrices. For instance, our researchers explore the environmental distribution and bioavailability of contaminants, colloidal systems and the mechanism of biofilm formation.

Sub-theme 4 – Materials for the remediation of contaminated environments (SDG 6, 14, 15) This track seeks to develop efficient decontamination processes. Our researchers mostly focus on water pollution; they leverage the advances in nanoscience, polymer science and self-assembly to engineer advanced materials such as (nano)adsorbants, fibres, chelating or flocculation agents. These novel materials can also enable a more effective treatment of mining runoff.

Sub-theme 5 – Materials for agricultural applications (SDG 2) This research track, a recent addition to the QCAM scientific programme, aims to develop functional materials enabling higher agricultural yields without harmful environmental effects. First discussed in a 2020 Nature Food review, these functional materials include, for instance, photocatalytic porphyrin-based metal-organic frameworks able to destroy pathogens in situ.