Electron Microscopy is a powerful tool for studying soft materials such as block copolymers, microgels, hybrid materials, vesicles and PEO-electrolyte membranes. These materials show interesting properties determined by their nanostructures, which can be visualised and analysed using (cryo-) electron microscopy.

·      Block copolymers consist of discrete polymer blocks that self-assemble into ordered nanoscale structures, making them useful for coatings, membranes, elastomers and nanostructured devices.

·      Microgels are tiny, water-rich particles that swell or shrink in response to stimuli such as temperature or pH, with applications in medicine, drug delivery and water purification.

·      Hybrid materials combine organic (soft) and inorganic (hard) components, resulting in materials that are both flexible and durable, ideal for advanced composites and electronics.

·      Vesicles are hollow nanoscale capsules formed by self-assembling lipids or amphiphilic polymers. They are used as controlled drug delivery systems, nanoreactors or drug carriers.

·      PEO electrolyte membranes are ion-conducting materials critical for advanced battery technologies, enabling improved energy storage and transport efficiency.

At our institute, we focus on studying these materials to understand and control their behaviour at the nanoscale and to develop innovative solutions for challenges in energy storage, sustainable technology and smart materials. Through this work, we aim to bridge fundamental science and practical applications, driving progress in areas such as renewable energy, nanomedicine and advanced materials.