Piezoelectricity in two-dimensional (2D) materials is increasingly important because of its potential in realizing thin yet efficient and flexible piezoelectric devices. In contrast to traditional three-dimensional (3D) piezo- and ferroelectrics that are prone to size effects, piezoelectricity in 2D materials may be controlled by flexoelectricity and interfaces thus providing significant piezoelectric effect in ultrathin films and crystals. Equally important, the majority of 2D layered piezoelectrics found so far possess in-plane piezoelectricity and require bending of flexible substrates to activate piezoelectric effect. This severely limits their integration with modern Si technology. This project aims at strengthening the piezoelectric activity in 2D materials via interface and stress engineering and bond control in order to reach the maximum efficiency and other relevant figures of merit. The materials list includes hafnium-zirconium oxide (HZO), transition metal thio/selenophosphates (TPS), graphene on oxide substrates, and polymer PDVF. A comprehensive investigation of piezoelectricity in these 2D materials and their relevant device performance is still at an initial stage and needs European support. Concerning piezoelectric energy harvesting, Piezo2D will build a technology to provide local energy generation (microgenerators) from the nm- to the micro-scale to power nano- and microdevices. Piezo2D will do so by enhancing and deploying the combined powers of equilibrium and nonequilibrium thermodynamics and atomistic models with device physics and engineering. Research results will underpin future developments of nanoscale energy devices for decades to come. We will also develop new characterization techniques and metrology-inspired protocols aiming at future standards and their use in the industry. The multidisciplinary approach of Piezo2D brings together leading teams in theoretical physics, materials science, chemistry and instrumentation working in synergy

The development and application of solid-state lasers (SSRs) over the last decade, emphasizing their wide-ranging uses in fields such as metal processing, medical applications, and optical transmission systems. It outlines the fundamental components of SSRs and the importance of achieving a balance between gains and losses in the laser resonator for effective generation. The concept of Q-switching is introduced, highlighting its role in enhancing laser performance by modulating the Q-factor of the resonator. Active and passive Q-switching methods are compared, with a focus on the advantages of passive Q-switches for generating powerful sub-nanosecond pulses in compact laser systems. The challenges associated with finding suitable passive Q-switching materials, particularly for long-term use, are discussed, leading to the proposal of a novel approach using a composite structure of polymer matrix with Cr4+:YAG nanopowders. This initiative, undertaken by the ALTER-Q consortium comprising European academic institutions, research organizations, and SMEs, aims to address the current limitations and pave the way for cost-effective alternatives in Q-switched laser technology.

The main objective of the proposal is the development of multi-purpose, multi-functional surfaces via environmentally friendly plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) treatments. In an intelligent way the weakness of the PEO process (the inherent porosity due to the discharges forming the coating is often responsible for poor properties) is used to functionalize the coating using the open pore structure as a reservoir for nanocontainer or to bring particles with certain functionalities deep into the coatings (fast pathways). The main targeted functionalities, are enhanced fault tolerance and active protection against corrosive damage as well as improved tribological behavior. Moreover, to extend this typical field of applications of PEO treatments and address additional industries and aspects (e.g. 3C, ecological), a set of less common functionalities, such as photocatalytic, magnetic, thermo- and electroconductivity will be added. This is challenging and goes far beyond the state-of-the-art introduction via post-treatments. To deal with such sensitive materials, changes in the power supply are required and this is addressed as one of the key points in frame of the project as well. The essential key of the project is the formation and development of an interdisciplinary R&D partnership, where participants from both academia (5) and private sector (4 SME) participate, promoting and sharing their ideas, expertise, techniques and methods to solve this demanding challenge. This partnership will be beneficial for all participants, since new PEO hardware, environmentally friendly processes and applications important for industry are developed, evaluated and promoted by the research institutions via presentations and publications of the obtained results. Laboratory based training and intersectional transfer of knowledge are the key aspects of the FUNCOAT project, so the partnership gathers the topmost competences to carry out the suggested research program.