The LIONS Research Group at CEA Saclay

LIONS is interested in the physical and chemical mechanisms that make it possible to obtain nanostructured materials. The aim of this research is to understand and thus better utilize the unique properties resulting from nanostructuring while guaranteeing a low environmental impact and safety of use (Safe by Design) by adapted synthesis methods. Rational design using statistical physics and modeling enables us to develop nanostructured materials and the methods to obtain them. Manufacturing and characterization are based on laboratory techniques (small-angle X-ray scattering, electron or atomic force microscopy, etc.), and also on large instruments (ESRF, Soleil, ILL) often coupled with microfluidics. The nanoparticles or nanostructured materials thus obtained are either directly useful in the fields of energy, environment or health, or constitute model systems which make it possible to advance knowledge in fields related to the interaction between materials and living organisms (nanotoxicity and nanomedicines) or physico-chemistry under radiation (photocatalysis, radiolysis). The laboratory's activity results in the production of new knowledge (around thirty articles per year, numerous national and international conferences) and valorization actions (patents, licenses, start-ups) on the materials themselves and the original methods developed to design and characterize them.

Synthesis

We explore the mechanisms by which nanostructures (nanoparticles, thin films, nanoporous material ...) can be obtained and tailored for specific needs. Our goal in this field is to go from understanding to control and prediction.

Reactivity

We explore the impact of specific nanostructures on material reactivity (photocatalytic reactions, adsorption, permeability, stiffness, chemical resistance and ageing...). Reactivity under confinement is of particular interest to us (radiation chemistry, confined redox reactions).

Nano for life

We explore the interactions between nanostructured materials and biological components (proteins, DNA) or structures (membranes, cells, organs). The objectives are to built confidence in the safety of useful nanostructures and to develop nanomedecines and diagnostic devices.

Funding

CEA
CNRS
ANR
Paris Saclay UniversityIle-de-France