Multi-user equipment approved in grant 2021/08111-2: Thermoluminescence reader

• Grant number: 25/11536-6
• Support Opportunities: Multi-user Equipment Program
• Start date: September 01, 2025
• End date: August 31, 2032
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Inorganic Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Hermi Felinto de Brito
• Grantee: Hermi Felinto de Brito
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 21/08111-2 - Development of rare earth based light converters: luminescent markers, optical sensors, and amplifiers, AP.TEM

Abstract

This proposal aims to develop new micro and nanostructured luminescent materials based on ra-earth ions (TR:Sc, Y, La-Lu) with applications in the energy area, health, telecommunication, radiation detection, and safety. Different strategies will be undertaken to develop new luminescent materials focused on the energy converter area, such as i) Molecular light-converting devices through the ligand-metal intramolecular energy transfer for application in molecular thermometers and optical markers; ii) Biomarkers and multifunctional materials for bioimaging, detection, and photoactivation in photodynamic therapy; iii) Light energy converters that act as high-efficiency light emitters for LED applications; iv) Photocatalytic composites that have high efficiency of chemical conversion, v) Optical amplifiers for application in telecommunications and vi) Scintillators for high-energy radiation detection. The material's photophysical properties will be directly correlated with their morphological and structural characteristics, representing the basic science approach of the proposal. Another goal of this research project is to train highly qualified human resources to develop new light-converting devices. Therefore, the research project also aims to contribute to position the country in a prominent place in light-converting materials concerning scientific and technological advances to improve modern society's quality of life. (AU)