The Photonic Materials and Devices Infrastructure (PMDI) project aims to establish a state-of-the-art research infrastructure in South Tyrol for developing advanced optical and photonic devices. Focusing on near-infrared (NIR) applications and the Internet of Things (IoT), the project will explore innovative technologies such as biodegradable solar cells, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), and photodetectors. By leveraging cutting-edge materials and sustainable practices, PMDI seeks to drive advancements in printable, flexible electronics and photonics, contributing to regional and global sustainability goals while fostering industrial and academic collaboration.
Research Themes:
- Near-Infrared Organic Light-Emitting Diodes (NIR OLEDs): for potential application to IoT signal transmission and theranostics.
- Biodegradable Photovoltaic Diodes (PVDs): for potential integration in IoT devices, greenhouses, and “floating photovoltaic” installations.
- Biodegradable/Bioresorbable OLEDs and PVDs: for potential application to in-situ monitoring of chemotherapeutic drugs, aligning with sustainability goals and reducing electronic waste.
Project Purpose
To establish a technological platform for characterizing the optical properties of advanced materials for photonics and optoelectronics applications.
Importance of Photonics
Photonics will play a crucial role in the future of ICT and healthcare technologies, relying heavily on new and cost-effective materials for specific photonic applications. The proposed infrastructure will enable the study of organic and hybrid semiconductors, promoting advancements in printable and large-area electronics and photonics.
Key Areas
- NIR OLEDs: Development of near-infrared OLEDs for various applications, including IoT and theranostics.
- Biodegradable Electronics: Creating sustainable, biodegradable electronics to reduce electronic waste.
- Photonics and Optoelectronics: Enabling research in semiconductor physics, material science, biology, and engineering of high-tech products.
Potential Applications
- Printable and flexible (opto)electronics
- Biomedical devices
- Renewable energy technologies
Infrastructure Details
- Location: NOI Techpark, South Tyrol
- Facilities: Equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories for the research and development of photonic devices.
Equipment
- Time-resolved and steady-state photoluminescence spectrometer
- Device characterization tools for emission spectra and quantum efficiency
- Angular distribution measurement instruments for OLED emission
Sustainability and Impact
Long-Term Goals
- Promoting sustainable electronic solutions
- Reducing electronic waste through biodegradable devices
- Contributing to regional and global sustainable development goals
Industrial and Academic Synergies
- Collaboration with local industries and startups
- Integration with existing research infrastructure at NOI Techpark
- Supporting advanced research in renewable energy, ICT, and biomedical fields
Alignment with Sustainability Goals
- Reducing electronic waste
- Enhancing local renewable energy production
- Contributing to a circular economy
Contact Information:
PI: Prof. Franco Cacialli
Dr. Soufiane Krik
Institution: Faculty of Engineering, Free University of Bolzano
Location: NOI Techpark Alto Adige – Südtirol
Via Alessandro Volta, 13A,
Italy – 39100, Bozen-Bolzano
Emails: franco.cacialli@unibz.it
soufian.krik@unibz.it
Phone: +39 0471 017119