Science and engineering of nanostructured fluids (NF) and soft matter are of key importance since these systems are present in all living systems and many technological applications. NMR is recognized to provide unique information about molecular order and organization by analysing molecular dynamics (cf. CA15209 EURELAX). CeFEMA’s strategy to reinforce its leading role in this field (cf. FCT-PTNMR, developer of new FFC NMR technology) will focus on the synthesis and NMR characterization of cellulose acetate/silica hybrid membranes and polymer/nanoparticles composite membranes providing selective mass transfer, targeting: industrial processes of ultra and nanofiltration and reverse osmosis; enhanced barrier properties; and improved drug delivery.
Furthermore, the pursuit of NMR characterization of molecular order and dynamics in ionic liquids, and exotic nematics, aims at the optimization of systems with technological applications. Also, the NF investigation provides the necessary background knowledge to model and control natural systems like cell membranes and organic electrolytes.
