Project (Prot. 2020TS9LXS)
PETALS introduces polymer science in the field of optical metamaterials for photonics. Metamaterials are artificial structures where properties are mainly defined by architecture rather than composition. For photonic applications a local structure of ca. 10 nm – the meta-atom – responsible for the overall properties is needed. PETALS makes macromolecules key elements of metamaterials exploiting the chemical engineering of their electronic response to control the refractive index
PETALS aims to enhance polymers refractive index using: (i) inverse vulcanized polymers, where highly polarizable Sulfur atoms -recycled from refinery industry- create Sulfur-rich macromolecular systems crosslinked by organic molecules, possibly from natural origin; (ii) novel high index transparent nanocomposites prepared functionalizing polymer reactive side chains with inorganic oxides; (iii) polymers bearing non-linear optical chromophores; (iv) self-assembling of block-copolymers embedding gold nanoparticles, engineering the system thermodynamics to obtain gyroidal or cylindrical meta-atoms.
The new metamaterials are foreseen as proof-of-concepts for modern photonics to create a new generation of more efficient and less energy consuming photonic elements. PETALS hence approaches the European Green Deal in a comprehensive and innovative way where the energetic efficiency of devices for the optical signal handling is joined to the sustainability and recyclability of plastic materials engineered to comply the principles of green chemistry.
As a key ingredient to the success of the project, communication actions throughout the course of PETALS will aim at disseminating to a broad, specialized and non-specialized audience (stakeholders) the project
Foreseen Duration: 36 months – from 25/04/2022 to 24/04/2025
Keywords: polymer chemistry; metamaterials; nanophotonics; macromolecular chemistry; polymers and plastics; polymer photonic crystals
Four Research Units:
1. University of Genova, Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry (UNIGE-DCCI), Genoa (ITALY), Principal Investigator Prof. Davide COMORETTO
2. University of Eastern Piedmont, Department of Science and Technological Innovation (UPO-DISIT), Alessandria (ITALY), Associate Investigator Prof. Katia SPARNACCI
3. National Research Council, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Technologies “Giulio Natta” (CNR-SCITEC), Genoa (ITALY), Substitute Principal Investigator Dr. Paola STAGNARO
4. National Institute of Metrological Research (INRiM), Turin (ITALY), Associate Investigator Dr. Angelo ANGELINI