Material Characterization Laboratory | MTSD
The Material Characterization Laboratory (McLab) is dedicated to the comprehensive
investigation of material properties and to the study of chemical and physical interactions
occurring at the nano- and micro-scales.
Through advanced morphological, spectroscopic, and structural characterization
techniques, the laboratory provides fundamental support to research activities in the fields
of materials and surface science, while contributing to the resolution of technological
and production challenges across diverse sectors.
The mission of McLab is to develop, refine, and apply advanced analytical
methodologies in surface and materials science, enabling the thorough characterization
of a wide spectrum of systems — from inorganic and nanostructured materials to
hybrid interfaces and soft matter.
- Establish and coordinate an integrated analytical infrastructure that
consolidates the equipment and expertise available within FBK. This infrastructure
supports internal research units and technology platforms requiring advanced
material characterization. - Promote research in metrology and analytical sciences, aimed at enhancing the
precision, reliability, and efficiency of analytical methodologies, fostering
collaborations with external academic and industrial partners, and contributing to
the advancement of instrumentation. - Conduct research on emerging materials, investigating their structural,
electronic, and chemical properties to foster innovation in both scientific and
industrial contexts. - Provide support to industrial partners engaged in materials development, quality
assurance, or analytical equipment design, through consultancy, collaborative
research projects, and innovation-driven initiatives.
McLab carries out research and development activities in several strategic material
domains, including:
- Next-generation semiconductors (e.g., SiC, Ge-on-Si, and related
heterostructures); - Superconducting materials for quantum technologies and cryogenic applications;
- Advanced and functional polymers, including composites and bio-inspired
systems; - Materials for energy technologies, such as photovoltaic materials, solid-state
batteries, catalytic systems, and hydrogen-related materials.
- Extensive expertise in surface science, spectroscopy, and advanced microscopy;
- Interdisciplinary approach and flexibility in addressing a wide range of scientific
and technological applications; - State-of-the-art analytical infrastructure, integrating cutting-edge instrumentation
and data processing tools; - Strong scientific output, demonstrated by a consistent publication record and
contributions to international research initiatives; - Recognized standing in the international materials science community,
reinforced by collaborations with leading research institutions and industries.