Department of Analytical Chemistry: Unraveling Molecular Interactions
At the Department of Analytical Chemistry, our research focuses on chemistry and intermolecular interactions in solutions and at solid-liquid interfaces, leveraging expertise in electrochemistry and spectroscopy.
Our Research Focus
We're actively involved in:
- Cosmetic Chemistry: Developing new cosmetic formulations, and studying active substance permeability and skin hydration.
- Luminescent Materials: Synthesizing and characterizing new luminescent materials, both solid and thin-film, based on lanthanide ions or organic fluorophores.
- Chiral Catalysis: Creating novel chiral homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts from vanadium(V) and molybdenum(VI) complexes with optically active ligands. We analyze their molecular structures and catalytic activity.
- Electrode Materials & Surface Properties: Developing and modifying electrode materials (GC, BDD, ITO, FTO, Au) for biochemical analytics and diagnostics, focusing on surface modification, morphology, and wettability measurements.
- Molecular Recognition & Chemical Analysis: Studying molecular recognition processes and developing advanced detection methods for inorganic and organic compounds, proteins, viruses, and bacteria.
- Material Synthesis: Creating diverse materials through organic synthesis (e.g., anthraquinone derivatives, vanadium/molybdenum complexes) and producing a range of hybrid nanomaterials, including Au and Ag nanoparticles, core-shell structures, and Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles.
Key Techniques Employed
To achieve our research goals, we utilize a comprehensive suite of advanced techniques, including:
- Electrochemistry (voltammetric techniques, EIS, DEIS, potentiometry, coulometry, conductometry)
- Spectroscopy (IR, UV-Vis, Circular Dichroism, 1D and 2D NMR)
- Wettability Measurements (contact angle, surface free enegry, surface tension)
- Quantum Modeling
- 3D-printing (e.g. PLA electrodes)
Innovations & Collaborations
We are dedicated to developing new analytical tools using electrochemical techniques to enhance detection capabilities. Our research also extends to quantum modeling of biological systems, neurotransmitters, and intermolecular interactions.
Beyond research, our team holds numerous patent applications, particularly for anti-cancer compounds. We foster strong scientific collaborations with Polish and international institutions.
The Department of Analytical Chemistry is equipped with cutting-edge instrumentation, supporting both standard analyses and highly specialized chemical research.
Our capabilities include:
Surface and Interfacial Analysis
We utilize a Drop Shape Analyzer goniometer for in-depth analysis of solid and liquid interactions, crucial for understanding wetting and coating processes. This allows for precise measurements of contact angle (liquid-solid interface), surface tension (liquid-liquid interface), and interfacial tension.
Electrochemistry and Molecular Recognition
Our potentiostats and galvanostats enable a range of electrochemical measurements, including cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), square wave voltammetry (SWV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). These methods are vital for developing innovative molecular recognition techniques, allowing us to investigate processes at solid-liquid and liquid-liquid interfaces to create new qualitative and quantitative analytical methods.
Spectroscopic and Microtitration Analysis
We employ UV-Vis spectrophotometers with automated titrating systems to analyze luminescent and chromophore compounds. Additionally, our laboratories are equipped with microtitrators, allowing for accurate potentiometric and spectrophotometric titrations even with very small sample volumes.
Advanced Synthesis Capabilities
Beyond physicochemical measurements, our laboratories are well-equipped for complex syntheses. Featuring high-quality glassware, an HPLC system, and a CEM microwave synthesizer, we can synthesize a wide array of compounds, including crown ethers, anthraquinone derivatives, peptide systems, and modify various organic compounds and matrices, and create nanomaterials such as AuNPs or core-shell structures.
Cosmetic Product Analysis
For our work in cosmetic chemistry, we utilize specialized equipment such as a corneometer for assessing skin hydration and a dedicated system for studying the permeability of cosmetic substances.
Innovative Lab Technology
Recently, the Department has integrated a 3D printer into its operations. This allows us to rapidly produce custom laboratory equipment components and innovative measuring electrodes made from PLA.