EMU: Acquisition of NanoSight Pro for the advancement of studies in nanomaterials in the Northwestern of São Paulo State

• Grant number: 23/17369-9
• Support Opportunities: Research Infrastructure Program - Small Medium Sized
• Start date: September 01, 2024
• End date: August 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Materials and Metallurgical Engineering - Nonmetallic Materials
• Principal Investigator: Cibely da Silva Martin Sonvesso
• Grantee: Cibely da Silva Martin Sonvesso
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia (FEIS). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Ilha Solteira. Ilha Solteira , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Renato Grillo

Abstract

This proposal describes the possibility of acquiring Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis equipment (NanoSight Pro) for the Department of Physics and Chemistry (DFQ) of the School of Engineering, Ilha Solteira (FEIS/UNESP). In the context of the EMU-PMP call for proposals, aiming to strengthen research in nanomaterials applied to agriculture, health, and the environment. FEIS already has multi-user equipment, and the introduction of NanoSight is extremely important to expand the capacity for analysis of size distribution, concentration, and tracking of nanoparticles, providing significant benefits for research related to the development of delivery systems for agriculture (nanopesticides and nanofertilizers), medicine, food, and risk assessment of nanomaterials in the environment. It is worth mentioning that the precision in the concentration analysis of nanoparticles also offers great applicability in chemical sensors, and photovoltaic solar cells, among other hybrid materials. Linked to this, the proposal highlights the geographical relevance of the installation of the equipment in Ilha Solteira, benefiting not only FEIS professors and their graduate programs but also higher education institutions in other regions of the northwest of the State of São Paulo and region. In addition, it highlights the importance of the northwest region of São Paulo, especially in the context of agribusiness, where nanotechnology can contribute to sustainable advances for the country. In addition, it expands the frontiers for applications in other areas of knowledge such as health and food. Regarding research advancements, the proposal emphasizes NanoSight's ability to provide accurate and sensitive data, highlighting its applicability in various areas of research and its potential impact on scientific innovation and development in the region. (AU)