New carbon materials: their relevant space, environmental and relevant spin off applications

Abstract

This proposal continues and increases the projects related to Diamond-CVD, Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) and related materials, including nanostructured carbons based on carbon nanotubes (NTC) and graphene, and nanocomposites involving these materials. Developments in plasma and laser surface treatments have a fundamental character. It will emphasize: the specific development of monocrystalline diamond deposition, with the creation of an infrastructure for the production of own seeds and fine polishing (roughness ~ 1nm); the depositions of polycrystalline and nano-crystalline (DNC) diamond-CVD; the production of diamond nanoparticles from the CVD diamond; evolution in diamond-like carbon (DLC), including the new DLC-Like Carbon; surface deposition of carbon nanotubes (NTC); adhesion studies and tensions in diamond films-CVD, DNC, DLC and DLC-Like; the modifications of plasma and / or laser surfaces, pre and post deposition of these materials, with the tuning of the properties of surfaces. Application studies of these materials: in tribology and solid lubricants, radiation-resistant sensors, thermal management, supercapacitors, electromagnetic radiation absorbers, radiometers, environmental sensors, pollutant degradation, potable water, X-ray optics, biological applications and industrial and space applications. These original subprojects stand out: betavoltaic cells; virus filtering platform for the detection of SARS-CoV-2; antiviral surfaces; doped DLC electrodes deposited on VACNT for effluent treatment; tribology with graphene formed "in operando" on copper films and doping and modification of VACNT and graphene to function as a catalyst or catalyst support. The aim is to provide equipment, materials and services for characterization, improvement of new reactors and new techniques in studies that contain scientific and technological innovation, help in the training of human resources, maintenance and expansion of national and international cooperation. The various items require fundamental research and show a high potential for innovation and opportunity for transfer to the productive sector. The entire study context will focus research on fundamentals and their applications, including products that lead to innovation, characteristic of the team's performance history. (AU)