In our group, we investigate the generation of functional materials applying bioinspired material synthesis. These synthesis strategies are based on natural biomineralization processes, which are adapted to technical materials. The material formation mechanisms, structures and interactions of the organic and inorganic phases in these functional materials are characterized by spectroscopic, X-ray and microscopic techniques. In addition, the material properties, e.g. electronic, nanomechanical and optical, are investigated.
Bioinspired Interfaces
Bioorganic molecules, e.g. proteins, control biomineralization processes. The control of technical material systems by specifically designed Designer Proteins is investigated in the research field "Bioinspired Interfaces". Investigations on nano- and microstructured phage systems provide specific transport and local material processing with nanometer accuracy. [more...]
Bioinspired Structuring
Our research interests are focused on the bioinspired structuring and characterization of multifunctional ceramic-based thin films, paper-like materials, and porous scaffolds, which mimic the structural design principles found in nature. It has been shown to be useful approach to improve the materials’ mechanical properties. [more …]
Bioinspired mineralization:
The primary objective of our research is using (bio)organic templates to synthesize structured organic-inorganic hybrid materials or replica of the corresponding organic template, all while applying facile “bottom-up” template assembly methods and mild reaction conditions. To exert control over the shape and properties of the fabricated hybrid structures, the synergistic interactions between the organic and inorganic phases in the hybrid materials and the influence of these interactions on the growth mechanism of the inorganic phase are studied. [more...]
Microalgae for material synthesis and transport
Some microalgae, e.g. the marine coccolithophorid Emiliania (E.) huxleyi, cover themselves with elaborated finely-pattered calcite disks, called coccoliths. Coccoliths are produced inside the cell under genetic control through biomineralization processes. The ions needed for the formation of the coccoliths are transported from the surrounding medium into the cell. [more...]