Inorganic Chemistry

Within the research programme for inorganic chemistry, we devote ourselves to studying and synthesizing materials. Our research projects focus on the development of new materials with designed properties.

Our research

Our research is rooted in inorganic chemistry - the study and synthesis of materials. We have a wide range of research projects focused on the development of new materials with designed properties. Our materials are synthesised using high-temperature solid state, solution or vacuum based techniques. The structures developed are as powders, compacts, sponges, and films and coatings. We have also several on-going projects on additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D-printing of alloys and composite materials.

An integral part of materials research and development is materials characterisation, and within our projects we do not only use, but also develop advanced characterisation methods to investigate our materials at different length scales using, for example, x-ray and neutron diffraction, imaging electron microscopy, x-ray spectroscopy and various electrochemical techniques. This is done using both local and large-scale research infrastructure.

Our research profile is focused on two major research themes: new materials for harsh environments and sustainable development and energy. In both these areas, control and fundamental understanding of the chemistry is of paramount importance.

Research themes

Method development

Harsh environments

There is need for new materials which can withstand very corrosive environments or high temperatures without oxidation or detrimental phase transformations. In many applications materials are exposed to high loads, stresses, erosion, radiation etc which can destroy or seriously damage the material. There is also a need for new materials which exhibit functional properties also at harsh conditions. This includes, for example, sensor materials and catalysts.

Our research on materials in extreme environments

Sustainable development

A more sustainable society that uses renewable energy also requires the development of new materials. Materials that give better performance and with better possibilities to store energy. It is also important to find alternatives to the critical elements and rare earth metals that are currently used in the technology that is important for the transition to a fossil-free society.

Our research on materials within sustainable development

Energy storage and transfer

The research is about developing new materials that can help us store and convert energy in more sustainable ways, such as materials for future batteries and supercapacitors. At the same time, new materials are being developed that can convert energy, for example in solar cells or through photocatalysis. Together, this research contributes to the development of more efficient technologies for harnessing and using renewable energy in future energy systems.

Our research on energy storage and transfer

Methods we use in our research

Additive manufacturing

Additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing is a rapidly growing technology for producing components for various applications. AM can be used to produce components that are more suitable for harsh environments or for a more sustainable society.

Advanced material analysis

An important part of material research is the ability to characterize materials and determine crystal structure, chemical composition and microstructure. All our projects involve qualified material characterization.