BrainMap

Mrs. Elena-Bianca Stoica (Georgescu)

Scientific researcher

Scientific researcher 3rd Degree - Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Researcher

Web of Science ResearcherID: QPB-0761-2026

Curriculum Vitae (13/09/2021)

Expertise & keywords

Next-generation biodegradable filters for water purification and desalination Call name: PNCDI IV, P 5.8 - SP 5.8.1 - COFUND-2023
COFUND-WATER4ALL-WATER-BIOFIL-1 2024 - 2027

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); EDAS-EXIM SRL (RO); Adam Mickiewicz University (PL); PRESSEKO Spolka zo.o. (PL); University of Toulon (FR); MARINE TECH S.A.S (FR)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/waterbiofil-ro/

Abstract:

Water is the most abundant and indispensable resource of our planet. However, freshwater distribution is very different from region to region, which brings with it a very problematic scenario for drinking water availability, especially following hydro-climatic extreme events. One viable and low-cost solution to provide direct access to drinking water, refers to implementing Point-Of-Use (POU) systems for water purification and desalination. Yet, before doing so, the issues identified by end-users/ consumers regarding filters disposal and recycling should be properly addressed. Thereby, the aim of the WATER-BIOFIL project proposal is to design& assemble& test next generation compostable filters, prepared from biodegradable polymers and/or bio-sourced polymers, which can be thereafter integrated in regular POU systems, and further serve their purpose as first-aid tools to cope with hydro-climatic extreme events, while diminishing the environmental impact of hazardous materials. Considering the proposed aim of the project and the transdisciplinary character of the foreseen activities, the project consortium is joining three renowned RDI entities, from Romania, France and Poland, with expertise in materials science and functional biomaterials (as technology developers), and other three SMEs from Romania, France and Poland (as technology integrators), with expertise on water purification and waste management. The six Partners are developing complementary activities according to their expertise and skills to ensure further development and/or build-up a multidisciplinary knowledge in a long-term perspective innovation, value creation and assistance in solving societal challenges. The project proposal addresses the required Polish, French, Romanian and EU impacts, with respect to the objectives of WATER4ALL, on ensuring water security for all and reducing environmental hazards.

Zirconium-modified magnetic sol-gel hybrid materials for advanced heavy metal removal from wastewater Call name: PNCDI IV, SP 5.7.1 - Proiect experimental demonstrativ
PN-IV-P7-7.1-PED-2024-1069 2025 - 2026

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); EDAS-EXIM SRL (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/zirmagsolgel-ro/

Abstract:

The project aims to achieve and test a demonstrative model for the technology of obtaining highly efficient materials to reduce the effect of water pollution with heavy metals (arsenic, chromium, and lead). Zirconium adsorbent materials are efficient for this purpose. Therefore, a technology for obtaining innovative hybrid materials, i.e., Zirconium-modified Sol-Gel Magnetic Particles (SGMPs-Zr), will be developed using a completely new approach. An advanced purification efficiency is estimated as adsorption properties synergize with magnetic ones. In addition, the magnetite allows a more straightforward recovery of the spent adsorbent. Sol-Gel Magnetic Particles (SGMPs) with magnetite content are first prepared and then modified with zirconium after being chemically activated by reaction with diamines (commercial or PET-derived). Thus, PET aminolysis will be assayed for financial benefits and eco-impact. The mechanism of action of SGMPs-Zr considers the targeted heavy metal, and therefore, validation will be carried out first by testing synthetic wastewater, then industrial wastewater. The complementarity of the two partners' knowledge creates adequate premises for a complete study with benefits for meeting the project goals. The results of the studies can be transferred to the economic agents on water, providing them with an eco-technology that replaces the classic technologies.

Molecularly imprinted-solid phase extraction technology for catechin tannins from shrub wooden parts Call name: PNCDI IV, SP 5.7.1 - Proiect experimental demonstrativ
PN-IV-P7-7.1-PED-2024-2055 2025 - 2026

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); HOFIGAL EXPORT IMPORT SA (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/catan-mispe-ro/

Abstract:

Plantele cu taninuri sunt folosite pentru a strânge țesuturile, pentru a usca secrețiile apoase excesive, pentru a proteja pielea deteriorată, pentru a opri sângerarea, pentru a menține infecția în frâu. Cu toate acestea, randamentul, puritatea și compoziția fitoextractelor sunt puternic influențate de sursă și de tehnica de extracție. Prin urmare, proiectul „CATAN-MISPE” intenționează să obțină extracte de taninuri catechinice mai pure și concentrate utilizand tehnici inovatoare cunoscute precum Molecularly Imprinted - Solid Phase Extraction (MISPE). În acest sens, fitoextractele primare din întregul lemn a 3 specii de arbuști (Rosa canina L., Hippophae rhamnoides L., Prunus spinosa L.) vor fi purificate cu polimeri imprenați molecular (MIP) prin extracție în fază solidă (SPE). În general, pentru fiecare moleculă țintă este nevoie de un nou MIP; astfel, etapa primară a proiectului se va concentra pe pregătirea MIP-urilor adecvate pentru taninuri. În timp ce a doua etapă va cuprinde dezvoltarea metodelor de obținere a fitoextractelor primare îmbogățite în taninuri catechinice si a extractelor pure și concentrate prin MISPE. Fezabilitatea proiectului este susținută de expertiza ICECHIM - cunoștințe avansate in MIP și SPE, și a Companiei HOFIGAL - cunoștințe complementare privind fitoextracte din plante. Rezultatele cheie ale proiectului vizează validarea a 4 tehnologii inovatoare de laborator, 2 cereri de brevet, 3 lucrări ISI, 6 comunicări științifice și site-ul web.

Illicit drugs and metabolites quick screening by innovative biomimetic sensors Call name: P 5.2 - SP 5.2.1 - Proiecte de cercetare pentru stimularea tinerelor echipe independente - Competiția 2023
PN-IV-P2-2.1-TE-2023-1293 2025 - 2026

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/drugscan-en

Abstract:

Worldwide, illicit drug and metabolites use and abuse has wide-ranging impacts on security, environmental and public health, becoming a major problem in the modern society. Hence, a novel perspective is important for the effective monitoring of illegal drugs using highly sensitive detection sensors. Cocaine is a natural alkaloid cultivated widely in the Amazonian region being the Europe’s second most commonly used illicit stimulant drug with an estimated retail market value of 10 billion euros. In this respect, the project Drug-Scan unravel its original contribution by developing new generation of cost-effective biomimetic sensors for the quantitative and fast screening of 5 different illicit drugs and metabolites (cocaine and major metabolites benzoylecgonine and ecgoninemethylester, codeine, methamphetamine) in biological samples (saliva or urine). The project relies on a recognition phase based on the preparation and incorporation of molecularly imprinted nanoparticles selective for cocaine into sol-gel matrices to obtain sensitive films. Further, the cocaine films will be deposited onto gold nanoparticulated graphene-screen printed electrodes. The functionality and versatility (selectivity studies of drugs and metabolites) of the optimized sensors will be proved. The specific output of the project will lead to: 3 ISI papers, 6 communications, website (during project implementation) and new research themes, performance data, transferable knowledge (after project end).

Environmental responsible composite propellant for unguided propulsive systems Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect de transfer la operatorul economic
PN-III-P2-2.1-PTE-2021-0211 2022 - 2024

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: COMPANIA NATIONALA ROMARM S.A.

Project partners: COMPANIA NATIONALA ROMARM S.A. (RO); Academia Tehnică Militară „FERDINAND I” (RO); Ministerul Apărării Naționale prin Centrul de Cercetare și Inovare pentru Apărare CBRN și Ecologie (RO); Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://romarm.ro/proiecte-cercetare/

Abstract:

Common unguided propulsion systems of great importance for any army include portable grenade/ missile launchers, rocket launchers placed on vehicles, aircrafts and boats. The main goal of this project is to recreate a vital capability of the national defense industry, by transferring from academia and research to the industrial partner C.N. ROMARM S.A. an innovative technology for the manufacture of a composite fuel for rocket engines, by development at industrial prototype level. The manufacture of the rocket fuels involve the use of an affordable oxidizer, with low sensitivity and minimal impact on the environment, and energy binder systems that can also include materials obtained by recycling PET. These new propellants have performances at least similar to those of double-based propellants (based on cellulose nitrates and glycerin trinitrate), while having a low sensitivity and a low impact on the environment. The solid composite fuel will have a dual use at national level in defense and civil propulsion applications, among which we mention the national system of interventions in the atmosphere with anti-hail missiles (also made by ROMARM SA), which currently uses obsolete and toxic fuels from import.

The consortium from the academic and research environment that developed and validated the experimental model and that will assist ROMARM SA in the development of this new technology encompasses prestigious institutions with long experience in research and development of military equipment and advanced materials: Military Technical Academy-Ferdinand I, Research-Innovation Center for CBRN Defense and Ecology and the National Research and Development Institute for Chemistry and Petrochemistry.

Ecotechnology for obtaining phytoingredients encapsulated in hydrogel based on bioactive complexes immobilized in a layer double hydroxide matrix Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2021-1870 2022 - 2024

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI (RO); Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); CENTRUL DE CERCETARE SI PRELUCRARE A PLANTELOR MEDICINALE PLANTAVOREL SA (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://www.chimie.unibuc.ro/cercetare/cataliza/PN-III-P2-2_1-PED-2021-1870/DUACTIVMER.pdf

Abstract:

The project aims the development of integrated validated eco-technologies (TRL4) with double action: 1) obtaining hydrogel encapsulated bioactive ingredients based on phytocomplexes from 2 medicinal plants (e.g. Rhamnus frangula L (RfL) and Helianthus tuberosus L (HtL)) with increased biocompatibility and protected from degradation by immobilization in a layer double hydroxide (LDH) matrix, and 2) valorization of spent vegetal after extraction as cheap adsorbent of pollutants from wastewaters. The basic concept of the technology (TRL2) lays on preliminary results obtained by consortium partners in: i) extraction of RfL and HtL phytocomplexes; ii) immobilization of different organic anions in Mg/Al-LDH and Zn/Al-LDH matrices, iii) obtaining of hybrid hydrogels containing bioactive phytoextracts from Rosa Canina and Hypericum Perforatum L immobilized in natural zeolite and iv) treatment of wastewaters polluted with heavy metals and organic pollutants. This project extends the application of double-protected bioactive phytoextracts to new systems based on RfL and HtL phytoextracts incorporated in Mg,Ca/Al,Fe-LDH matrices and further encapsulated into hydrogels. The integrated technology ensuring minimum waste production, will allow the further utilization of obtained active ingrediends in food supplements with benefic effects for improving a lazy intestinal transit due to a constant low apport of glucofrangulins brought by RfL along with electrolytes such as Mg/Ca and Fe, while acting also as prebiotic and promoter of mineral absorption and cholesterol-lowering due to HtL. A benefit for wastewater treatment would also be brought. The use of the obtained products in food supplements could be benefic to people well-being, by reducing the negative effects of their chaotic lifestyle, with too many working hours, continuous stress and most important, poor dietary decisions, all leading to tremendous repercussions on the health of the digestive system.

Biopolymer structures obtained by plasma treatment for wounds healing Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2021-2559 2022 - 2024

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE MEDICO-MILITARA „CANTACUZINO” (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/biopolymer-structures-obtained-by-plasma-treatment-for-wounds-healing-bioplasm/

Abstract:

Chronic wounds, severe burns or infected wounds are among the most painful diseases that require long-term expensive treatment. Currently, the clinical management of chronic wounds is difficult due to the increasing risk of infection with antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the shortcomings of current therapies. A novel technology for the manufacture of bilayer wound dressings, based on nanocellulose and cold plasma processing, will be developed in BIOPLASM project. The scope of the project is to obtain effective dressings for the treatment of infected wounds by developing antibacterial nanocellulose nanocarriers deposited on an aliphatic polyester substrate.

The use of cold plasma for nanocellulose and biopolymers processing in view of medical application is an effervescent field, with important benefits related to eco-friendliness, lack of secondary or waste products, sterilization and large functionalization capabilities. Cold plasma treatment of liquid suspensions of nanocellulose is a concept developed by ICECHIM and INFLPR in a previous project. This will serve as a starting point together with the functionalization and processing of nanocellulose and aliphatic polyesters for building a new technological approach to fabricate bilayer wound dressings. The new technology will be validated by in vitro and in vivo studies. The project will be implemented by a skilled group of researchers from ICECHIM, INFLPR and Cantacuzino Institute.

Rational design of composite membranes for advanced heavy metal removal in wastewaters Call name: P 1 - SP 1.1 - Proiecte de cercetare pentru stimularea tinerelor echipe independente - TE-2021
PN-III-P1-1.1-TE-2021-0915 2022 - 2024

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/ionmem-en/

Abstract:

Water pollution by heavy metal ions is becoming a major environmental problem because of the high toxicity of some of these elements and their tendency to accumulate through the food chain, affecting all living organisms in a given ecological system. The present project proposes a new concept for the water treatment membranes with improved features in terms of hydrophilicity, porosity and specific surface area and higher retention capacity at low concentration of heavy metal ions in effluent. In this respect, I-ON-MEM proposal describes a feasible and original method for preparing performant and low-cost composite membranes, based on functionalised MWCNTs and terpolymer formulations for advanced wastewater treatments. An original part of the project refers to selecting terpolymer formulations for preparing either 100% synthesic or biofriendly matrix. Another original aspect will be represented by addressing the possible effects of various functionalization agents and methods upon the WMCNT-copolymer compatibility pore size of membranes and retention efficiency of different heavy metals. Non-covalent functionalization of MWCNTs by surfactants and by silylation with various organosilica agents will be performed. The results will be disseminated as follows: at least 3 scientific publications in ISI journals; at least 3 scientific communications, and patenting of any original aspect.

Synthetic nanogel antibodies molecularly imprinted with the Spike S1 protein Call name: P 1 - SP 1.1 - Proiecte de cercetare pentru stimularea tinerelor echipe independente - TE-2021
PN-III-P1-1.1-TE-2021-1239 2022 - 2024

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/antispike-ro

Abstract:

SARS-CoV-2 is a new coronavirus type and it is responsible for causing COVID 2019 in humans, with very high contagion rate all over the world. The viral entry of SARS-CoV-2 is conferred by the presence of Spike S1 protein on the surface that can direct attachment and enter the plasma membrane of the human cell. The Spike protein through its location is a significant therapeutic target, and targetable using antibodies. Despite recent technological developments, effective and safe therapies are currently not available for treating the infected victims. Thereby, the general objective of the project targets the synthesis of synthetic nanogel antibodies molecularly imprinted with Spike S1 (MIP-SNAs) for recognizing and retaining coronavirus-originated Spike S1 proteins. In this respect, the MIP-SNAs are able to recognize and bond to the Spike S1 proteins, acting as nanogel caps, and thus inhibiting the activity of SARS-CoV-2 antigen to penetrate the human cells. Hence, ANTISPIKE holds significant influence upon the scientific community by new concepts and methodologies for ligand-free delivery systems as MIP-SNAs (short-term impact: scientific ISI papers and communications, and national patent claim) and by opening new research directions associated with the side-benefits of the research (like new immuno-therapies) as long term impact. Implementation of this project will also bring specific scientific, economic and social benefits at the national and international level.

RECYCLING CRUSTACEANS SHELL WASTES FOR DEVELOPING BIODEGRADABLE WASTEWATER CLEANING COMPOSITES Call name: P 3 - SP 3.2 - Proiecte ERA.NET - COFUND
COFUND-BLUEBIO-BIOSHELL 2020 - 2023

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); EDAS-EXIM SRL (RO); Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NO); University of Coimbra (PT); Brinova Bioquimica Lda. ID&T (PT)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/bioshell-ro/

Abstract:

Wastes from agriculture and fishery cause harmful effects on the environment and implicitly on humans. But, many of these wastes can be recycled. One of the current global issues refers to minimizing waste production, effective wastewater treatment, biosafe food production, and reducing hazards from the exposure to pathogens. Most of the threatening microorganisms especially emerging pathogens (EPs) derive from wastewater. Moreover, antibiotics residues present in wastewater lead bacterial pathogens to develop antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). In addition, heavy metals are among the most harmful non-microbial pollutants due to their toxicity to humans. BIOSHELL aims at synergistically solving economic, environmental and health problems. The project focuses on utilizing the wastes from sea food preparation such as crustacean carcasses in the development of innovative and efficient inorganic-organic functionalized hydrogel nanocomposites, suitable to facilitate the sustainable wastewater purification technologies about heavy metals retention, antibiotics elimination, EPs and ARGs removal.

Screen-Printed Hybrid Electrodes for Detecting and Monitoring Lipopolysaccharides Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2019-2443 2020 - 2022

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); EPI-SISTEM S.R.L. (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/toxisens-en/

Abstract:

The project TOXINSENS refers to designing innovative, versatile and re-usable biosensors for the fast, qualitative and quantitative detection and monitoring of lipopolysaccharides (LPS- endotoxin derived from Gram-negative bacteria, GNB) in various biological, food or water samples. For this matter, a medium consortium was created taking into account the project interdisciplinary and complexity, which includes the Project Coordinator ICECHIM that owns the background of the Concept approached in this project proposal, a Partner with state-of-the art facilities for characterisation i.e. UPB and a SME Partner-EPI SISTEM SRL capable of testing the project prototypes, adsorbing the know-how of manufacturing and commercialise the resulted LPS-biosensors. The project on-set refers to the following bioinspired concept: Methodology for the preparation of LPS-sensitive films-TRL 2. The concept was originally proposed by the Project Leader and developed within the Advanced Polymer Materials & Polymer Recycling Group from ICECHIM on project TE123/2018 BACTERIOSENS. Starting from this point, TOXINSENS targets first the upgrade of this former concept by addition of electro-active nanoparticles to the precursor films solution. In this way, an electro-active hybrid paste will be generated and used to print LPS-hybrid films directly on blank ceramic electrodes (TRL 3). The prepared LPS-Screen-printed hybrid electrodes will be further tested in laboratory-relevant environments and the innovative technologies will be thus validated (TRL 4). The specific output of the project will lead to several outcomes during project implementation (short-term scenario: at least 3 publications, 3 communications at prestigious Symposia or Congresses and 1 patent claim), and also after project end (long-term scenario: research and development roadmaps, performance data, transferable knowledge).

Contingency of CBRN hazards and improvement of national security resources Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0395 2018 - 2021

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); Ministerul Apararii Nationale prin Centrul de Cercetare Stiintifica pentru Aparare CBRN si Ecologie (RO); Academia Tehnica Militara (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); CENTRUL DE CHIMIE ORGANICA AL ACADEMIEI ROMANE "C.D.NENITESCU" (RO); Centrul de Cercetare Stiintifica pentru Fortele Navale Constanta (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=40&lang=ro si http://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=33&lang=en

Abstract:

SECURE-NET is a Complex Project designed to improve the institutional performance of the Consortium Research Partners (Institutions with Re-launch Capabilities in the Field of National Security). In this respect, the Complex Project proposes five research themes corresponding to the five Component Projects, which aim at: (i) contingency of chemical, biochemical, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) hazards by developing new decontamination products and by developing specific sensors for detecting chemical agents of combat, and (ii) improving national security by developing shock-absorbing composites, solid rocket fuel and multispectral camouflages. This Complex Project brings together institutions with tradition, having either similar specialisation or complementary specialisation, to strengthen scientific and technical competences in the field of National Security and Advanced Materials for military applications. The Project Consortium has a gender-balanced staff and promotes the involvement of a large number of teachers, researchers, doctoral students and post-doctoral students in all activities proposed by the Common Agenda. In addition, the project facilitates the transfer of scientific knowledge between participating institutions as well as the recruitment and training of new staff. The multitude of results generated by the implementation of SECURE-NET express the potential for significant influence upon (i) the scientific community through communication and dissemination of results (as a short- and medium-term impact), and (ii) the public and private environment by promoting new research services and new transferable products / technologies to the external environment of the Consortium, particularly to the national defence industry (as a long-term impact).

Innovative technologies based on polymers for the obtaining of new advanced materials Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0428 2018 - 2021

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE CHIMICO - FARMACEUTICA - I.C.C.F. BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE PENTRU ELECTROCHIMIE SI MATERIE CONDENSATA - INCEMC TIMISOARA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE MACROMOLECULARA "PETRU PONI" (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=41&lang=ro

Abstract:

The project is aimed at using the expertise that involved in consortium entities acquired in materials science. The consortium consists of three representative national institutes: INCD for Chemistry and Petrochemistry – ICECHIM Bucharest, INCD for Electrochemistry and Condensed Matter - INCEMC Timisoara and INCD of Chemical Pharmaceutical - ICCF Bucharest, and of two prestigious universities: University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest and the University of Bucharest and a remarkable institute of Romanian Academy: Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry – Petru Poni Iasi. Although having great tradition and noteworthy results, the first five institutions face a series of problems, from the lack of financial funds, equipment and the aging employees for ICCF and partly for INCEMC and ICECHIM, to the lack of highly qualified staff required for recent investments in equipment for all 5 institutions. In this respect, the project attempts relaunching the activity in the first 5 institutions of the consortium, by putting together the existing competencies, so as to develop new technologies in order to obtain new materials with high performance properties. Given that, 3 of the research teams are specialized in polymers (ICECHIM, Petru Poni and UPB) the developed technologies will use the polymers as intermediates or as a component in the finished product. To this end it is envisaged getting the titanium nitride for prosthetic coatings via inorganic-organic polymer nanocomposites, obtaining photocatalytic materials and antibacterial coatings by sol- gel reactions, obtaining of short-life or one-time use biomaterials from aliphatic polyesters and micro or nanocellulose and the development of new polyphase materials with medium or long life, based on biopolymers, through 3D printing. The project intends the full use of A1, A2, B and C checks in order to increase the institutional performance of partners.

HOW TO PROTECT WATER, SOIL AND PLANTS PRODUCTION ALL TOGETHER Call name: P 3 - SP 3.2 - Proiecte ERA.NET - COFUND
COFUND-WATER WORKS ERANET 2015-ProWsper 2017 - 2020

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE PENTRU PEDOLOGIE, AGROCHIMIE SI PROTECTIA MEDIULUI - ICPA BUCURESTI (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=23&lang=en

Abstract:

The need for innovative strategies for water and soil protection that substitute the time-, energy- and resource-consuming remediation processes with other more efficient and environmentally-friendly is becoming urgent. In this respect, the interest of this project is to promote such solutions for public and private practitioners and to up-rise industrial competitiveness through economically sustainable technologies/products, in the Agriculture Field and indirectly in the Water Management aria. Therefore, this project practically develops protective composite layers (as end-products) with high efficiency towards pollution of underground water and soil, but without affecting the plants growth. ProWsper is an experimental and demonstrative research project conducted in partnership with four prestigious Institutions, from three European countries (Romania, France and Portugal) that face these common problems. In order to succeed, the implementation gap from Prototyping to Marketing and thereafter to practitioners will be narrowed by social/industrial awareness campaigns using various channels.

Advanced hybrid surfaces for biosensing Bacteria Endotoxins Call name: P 1 - SP 1.1 - Proiecte de cercetare pentru stimularea tinerelor echipe independente
PN-III-P1-1.1-TE-2016-1006 2018 - 2020

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=34&lang=en

Abstract:

One of the current global issues refers to drinking water or food quality and medical hazards from the exposure to pathogenic bacteria. Despite the gross investment on research to reduce the incidence of infections in humans, the simplest and most successful strategies in preventing bacteria spreading have proven to be the best hygiene practices. Hence, bacterial contamination can be prevented if properly detected. In this respect, biosensors can be applied to a large variety of samples including body fluids, food samples, cell cultures to analyze environmental samples. As a result, the project BACTERIOSENS proposes the preparation of advanced hybrid surfaces (namely molecularly imprinted polymer nanofilms, MIP NFs) able to sense lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-the endotoxin membrane of Gram negative bacteria (GNB). This is a multidisciplinary project resulting in innovative synthesis technologies for LPS-MIP NF and LPS biosensors. The specific output of the project will lead to various outcomes during project implementation (mid-term scenario: at least 3 ISI publications and 3 communications, 1 national patent claim and website of project) and also after project end (long-term scenario: new research themes, research and development roadmaps, performance data, transferable knowledge to lead-users). The scientific outcomes are expected to have several impacts with potential benefits within scientific, economic and social areas at the national level (during project implementation) and at the international level (when the innovative technologies for the preparation of LPS biosensors are transferred to potential beneficiaries). The work plan and methodologies are straightforward and the resources (meaning the infrastructure: laboratories and instruments; and the highly qualified Project leader and the young team members: 3 Postdocs, 2 PhD fellows, and other 5 young specialists) are well-balanced according to the activities employed for the project successful implementation.

Bactericidal hybrid surfaces against Gram-negative and Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria: Smart Tools for Wastewater Purification Call name: P 3 - SP 3.2 - Proiecte ERA.NET - COFUND
COFUND-M-ERA.NET II-TANDEM 2017 - 2020

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); EDAS-EXIM SRL (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=25&lang=en

Abstract:

After major efforts for hygienize the wastewaters, the presence of pathogenic bacteria is still detected in the water, soils and even crops, causing public and environmental hazards. This issue is of high concern as most pathogens responsible for waterborne diseases originate from faecal or food waste contamination caused by insufficient- or not treated wastewater. As a result, TANDEM project focuses on developing innovative and efficient bactericidal hybrid surfaces for Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria that can be transposed into special building blocks (i.e. smart tools) for creating more efficient bio-tanks and sustainable wastewater purification technologies with regard to pathogenic bacteria removal. The project consortium is well-balanced having aside two renowned RT&D entities from Romania and Norway that will guaranty the successful implementation of the project. In addition, one medium enterprise from Romania is entrusted with prototyping/testing the tandem bio-tank.

Ligand-free targeted delivery nanogels for phospholipase A2 retention Call name: P 1 - SP 1.1 - Proiecte de cercetare pentru stimularea tinerelor echipe independente
PN-III-P1-1.1-TE-2016-1876 2018 - 2020

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: https://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=32&lang=en

Abstract:

It is well known that the venom from the Hymenoptera insect class (bees, wasps, ants) are potent neurotoxic due to secreted phospholipase A2 enzyme (PLA2). For instance, bee venom PLA2 enzyme acts synergistically with the polyvalent cations (toxins) in the venom creating an increased haemolytic effect and a quick access of toxins into the blood flow, targeting important organs like the brain, kidney and liver. In spite of recent technological developments, effective and safe therapies are currently not available for treating the victims of mass insect attacks. Yet, thanks to advances in the fields of Nanotechnology, removing of PLA2 enzyme from sting zone, can be accomplished by targeted delivery systems called ligand-free nanogels. The proposed concept for preparing ligand-free nanogels is original and uses bifunctional macromonomers, small molecule cross-linkers and PLA2 template molecules to create antibody-like recognition sites for PLA2 subsequent retention. Hence, PLANano holds significant influence upon the scientific community by new concepts and methodologies for free-ligand nanogel targeted delivery systems (short-term impact: 3 ISI papers, minimum 3 communications, 1 national patent claim, web site of project) and by opening new research directions associated with the side-impacts of the research (like new imuno-therapies) as long term impact. Implementation of this project will also bring specific scientific, economic and social benefits at the national level and at the international level. The greatest impact is given by the health value, if taken in consideration the advantages of the innovative ligan-free nanogels over conventional antivenom production. Plus, the existing infrastructure of the Host Institution is appropriate to sustain the proposed tasks for PLANano successful implementation. But most importantly, the young research team composed of young specialist, post-docs and PhD fellows is highly qualified in this direction.

Surface plasmon resonance multi-sensor for real time illicit drugs detection Call name: P 3 - SP 3.2 - Proiecte ERA.NET - COFUND
ERA.NET.RUS PLUS-SNIFF - ICECHIM 2016 - 2018

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO)

Project website: http://icechim-rezultate.ro/proiect.php?id=20&lang=en

Abstract:

All over the world, billions of dollars are spent annually on chemical/biological detection related to medical diagnosis, environmental monitoring, public security and food safety because laboratory analysis using expensive equipment is usually cumbersome and time-consuming. During the last 20 years, global research and development on the field of sensors has expanded exponentially in terms of financial investment, the published literature, and the number of active researchers. Bio mimetic sensors will be used as “on-site” method by the authorities to provide enough information for routine testing and screening of transportation. The main advantages of using versatile sensors for fast drug tracing refer to cost-efficiency and “on-site” legal measures to prevent drug traffic and consumption. The general objective of “SNIFF” proposal is to develop efficient optical micro sensor arrays (optical multisensor) using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) for detecting various drug compounds i.e. LDS, cocaine, heroin or methamphetamine to prevent illegal transit and consumption of drugs. Furthermore, the sensitive membrane of the optical sensor will be tailored, using a molecularly imprinting technique (MI), to “sniff” (sense and detect) only the targeted drugs. The most obvious advantage of SPR sensors using MIPs as selective films is having a wide range of low cost functional monomers as well as cross-linking agents available which may be selected by various experiments to match the functional groups of the template molecule. MIP are to be synthesized directly on the thin golden layer of SPR sensor using two procedures: deposition of the compatible synthetic MI layer directly on the golden concave surface and grafting the MIM onto the Au functionalized surface. Apart the low cost, the new sensor will have a very good resistance in time, due to the synthetic polymer, the possibility of continuous monitoring and of the recovery and reuse.

FILE DESCRIPTION	DOCUMENT
List of research grants as project coordinator or partner team leader
Significant R&D projects for enterprises, as project manager
R&D activities in enterprises
Peer-review activity for international programs/projects