Precious nanoparticles and their applications

Desired outcome

Assessment and identification of markets and applications where high purity nanoparticles made from precious metals can be applied. An overview on trends in this area should be provided.

Initial Problem Description

The team should analyse the potential and use of precious nanoparticles in different areas. High purity nanoparticles from precious metals are made by a special process using a laser based process. Potential areas of use are applications in sensors or markers as well as for applications in pastes and inks used in 3D printing.

Context

Nanoparticles made from precious metals with a high purity allow to realize very stable suspensions for pastes and inks. The goal is to identify those markets and applications areas where the high purity and tailorable particle size will give an advantage. There are different ways for the fabrication of nanoparticles. Especially if they are used in suspensions typically stabilisators are needed to avoid a sedimentation. By the use of high purity nanoparticles, stable suspensions are possible without the need of additives. Possible areas for the nanoparticles could be catalysts, sensors, inks and pastes for printed electronics.

Connection to cross-cutting areas

The used synthesis method for the fabrication of nanoparticles is based on the use of end of life sputtering targets which can be used for the synthesis of nanoparticles. This concept allows to re-use end of life sputtering targets which typically are only used up to 50 %. the special laser based synthesis process allows to exploit most of the remaining 50% for the synthesis of nanoparticles.

Input

Precious metal nanoparticles are used in various diagnostic applications, e.g. for virus detection. Alternative areas for applications should be identified. A broader screening of the market is expected in order to identify application areas which have not been addressed so far. Future trends where the technology can be applied should be identified.

Expectations

The team shall provide a good overview on the various potential applications and markets for high purity precious nanoparticles. Market should be segmented and ranked based on low hanging fruits which can be addressed in a short time frame and use cases and markets which offer high potential on a long term.

Desired Team Profile

Team with broad background/interest will be of advantage (e.g. technical interest especially material manufacturing and application in high tech markets). International team is of advantage. Open minded and students which are thinking "out of the box" are welcome. Structured way of working and systematic analysis.

Additional Information

An overview on key players on the market would be helpful to see how the market is actually segmented. Also an analysis of the strategies/focus on special markets of the key players. The screening shall also include an assessment how important are SMEs in this area. Which focus or niche markets would be recommended to focus on.

Related Keywords

• Aerospace
• Biological Sciences
• Industrial Technologies
• Industrial manufacturing, Material and Transport Technologies
• Sustainability
• Industrial Products