Missions

The project aims to develop high-throughput synthesis of bimetallic nanoparticles through laser irradiation. Initially, a reactive thin layer of precursors (metallic complexes, sol-gel layers, etc.) will be prepared using various shaping methods, particularly spray-coating. The nucleation and/or modification of the crystallinity of the precursors, as well as the evolution of their microstructure, will be studied using various characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron microscopy. The catalytic activity of the most promising materials will then be evaluated. This work will be carried out within the Solid Chemistry group of the Laboratory of Condensed Matter Physics at the École Polytechnique, Palaiseau, France. It will be supervised by S. Delacroix and T. Gacoin and is part of the PEPR Diadem project.

Team website: https://pmc.polytechnique.fr/spip.php?article108

Activities

Polymetallic oxide nanocrystals are promising candidates for the next generation of (photo)catalysts for pollution control. Unfortunately, exploring the phase space of these catalysts can be time-consuming and labor-intensive due to the numerous accessible compositions.

To address this issue, our group is currently developing a high-throughput synthesis methodology based on laser irradiation of thin film precursors. This two-step approach involves 1) preparing controlled reactive thin films (composition and thickness gradients), and 2) inducing ultra-fast crystallization via laser. The speed of this synthesis method helps preserve the nanostructure of refractory oxides at high crystallization temperatures and may even allow the isolation of metastable phases.

The project aims to contribute to the development of this new methodology by applying it to bimetallic oxides. Different approaches will be explored for precursor preparation, such as sol-gel chemistry (Pechini process) or spray-coating of metallic complexes. The reactivity and crystallization of the precursor layers under varying exposure times, power, and wavelength will be studied to understand the nucleation and crystallization mechanisms on the substrate during laser irradiation.

More details about the project can be found via the following link:
https://nostromo.polytechnique.fr/index.php/s/ZRtBP8xterC39E3

Skills

Experience in the synthesis of inorganic nanoparticles or nanostructured ceramics.
Knowledge of implementing structural characterizations, especially using transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction

Work Context

The work may involve collaborations with the Electron Microscopy Center of École Polytechnique (CIMEX) as well as with members of the FastNano platform funded by the PEPR Diadem, particularly the LIONS laboratory at CEA Saclay. Interactions with AIonobios, a company specialized in data science, may also be considered to predict, through machine learning, the optimized synthesis conditions for future catalysts.

The position is located in a sector under the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST), and therefore requires, in accordance with the regulations, that your arrival is authorized by the competent authority of the MESR.

Constraints and risks

The projet presents no specific constraints, and risks are the usual one for a work in materials chemistry using no really dangerous compounds
Short periods of travel within France and abroad should be expected

Additional Information

Application deadline: April 30, 2025
Contract start date: from June 01, 2025