Research Group Prof. Dr. Nadja Bigall

Physical Chemistry and Dynamics of Nanoscopic Systems

We, the members of the Bigall research group, are investigating the nano-, micro-, and macrostructuring of nanoscopic systems. In particular, we are developing:

• Synthesis strategies for novel colloidal nanoparticles with various shapes, sizes, and materials, and corresponding properties. Examples include quantum dots, plasmonic nanoparticles, and superparamagnetic nanoparticles.
• Assembly strategies of colloidal nanoparticles into microscopic systems, which can be stacks of quantum plates, or colloidal supercrystals made of magnetic nanoparticles, which are of interest for applications in nanobiomedicine.
• Assembly of the same nanoparticles into macroscopic systems. These can include ultra-lightweight self-supporting networks of nanoparticles, known as aerogels and hydrogels. Potential applications here include photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, and sensors.
• Films made of nanoparticles, with high potential for use in sensing applications.

Through spectroscopic, electrochemical, and structural characterization of these nanomaterials, insights into their physicochemical properties can be obtained. Maintaining the structure-property relationship is a central research focus, as the different assembly architectures lead to specific new material properties that are not otherwise achievable. For example, we are researching charge carrier dynamics and conductivity, band structure, plasmonics, as well as optical or magnetic properties, particularly regarding interparticle interactions in nanoscopic systems.