BrainMap

Mrs. Izabella Dascalu

Ph. D

Researcher - INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Researcher

2001-2025 Researcher Synthesis of novel semiconductor metal oxides; Physico-chemical characterization and data interpretation; Investigating mesoporous materials; Preparation of scientific papers, presentations, patent

Curriculum Vitae (07/05/2025)

Expertise & keywords

Bioethanol-fuel cells with metal-free anode for portable devices Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect de transfer la operatorul economic
PN-III-P2-2.1-PTE-2021-0592 2022 - 2024

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: STIMPEX S.A.

Project partners: STIMPEX S.A. (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://stimpex.ro/research/bioenergcell-celule-de-combustie-cu-anozi-fara-metale-nobile-alimentate-cu-bioetanol-pentru-dispozitive-portabile/

Abstract:

Fuel cells are notable for their potential to efficiently convert blocked energy into chemical bonds into electricity, while reducing pollutant emissions. Within this project, considering the challenges identified by the research team, we decided to make the technological transfer of a fuel cell powered by bioethanol from two research institutes, ICF and INCDFM, to the economic operator STIMPEX SA.

Thus, the main objective of the BIOENERGCELL proposal is to develop an industrial prototype (generically called BEC) - a fuel cell powered by bioethanol, using as anode an oxide without noble metals, economically competitive and dedicated to powering portable devices.

The specific objectives of our proposal are the following:

OS1 Scaling up of cheaper and more efficient oxide electrocatalysts, containing no noble metals, with increased activity, improved stability and increased tolerance to carbon deposition from CO formation as a reaction intermediate.

OS2 Technology transfer from the research institutes involved in the project (INCDFM and ICF) to the private company (SC STIMPEX SA) in order to create an industrial prototype (BEC) - polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEMFC), electricity generator from renewable sources, used in portable devices.

Given the composition of the consortium, two research institutes and a company with experience in the project, and with a long history of collaboration, we are confident that the project is feasible and will bring progress in the field of innovative membrane fuel cell technology, and also environmental protection. In the long run, fuel cell technology can bring about major changes in the quality of life.

Holistic design of fuel cell electrocatalysts for the least power applications Call name: P 3 - SP 3.2 - Proiecte ERA.NET
ERANET-M.-CATALEAST-1 2019 - 2022

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Budapest, Hungary (HU)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Project website: http://www.icf.ro/pr_2018/CATALEAST/index.html

Abstract:

Due to their low operation temperature/pressure requirement and high energy density, Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) comprise the most important type of fuel cell for different applications, like automobiles, stationary, and small-scale portable electricity generation. One of the key constituents of PEMFCs responsible for the longevity, performance and price is the electrocatalyst. The best available catalysts consist of activated carbon, so called support, and platinum, as active phase, which are known to suffer from degradation, which can only be compensated with extremely high platinum loading, keeping the price of the cells high. Our aim is the development of new types of corrosion resistant catalysts with improved stability and decreased or completely eliminated Pt content. The project proposes integration of novel catalytic system into Membrane Electrode Assemblies (MEAs) and building of fuel cells for laboratory tests and application in new portable, hydrogen powered, devices. Finally, the project aims to scale-up the preparation of the best compositions to industrially relevant amounts. The novel generation of electrocatalysts and the completed small PEMFCs with MEAs built on these catalysts as the outcomes of the proposed work will contribute to the deployment of hydrogen fuel cells, one of the key technologies towards a sustainable, decarbonised and more efficient energy system. Therefore, a foreseeable result of the proposed work at the economy level is a contribution to the European innovation chain of Fuel Cell and Hydrogen technologies.

Sustainable autonomous system for nitrites/nitrates and heavy metals monitoring of natural water sources Call name: P 3 - SP 3.2 - Proiecte ERA.NET
M-ERA.NET-WaterSofe 2016 - 2018

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); NANOM MEMS SRL (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE- DEZVOLTARE PENTRU MICROTEHNOLOGIE - IMT BUCURESTI INCD (RO); UNIVERSITATEA TRANSILVANIA BRASOV (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Project website: http://www.icf.ro/pr_2016/WaterSafe/index.html

Abstract:

The project sets to develop a new energy autonomous system based on (photo)electrochemical sensors for detection of different ionic species in natural water sources and ultra-thin solar cells (UTSC). It focuses on three directions: high efficiency, new materials in solar energy harvesting and fabrication of small UTSC and the power stabilizing device able to supply the needed voltage to the sensors and electronic module; new microsensors for detection of nitrites/nitrates and heavy metals in water; low cost autonomous energy system integration and fabrication.

The harvester will include a UTSC, a dedicated storage and a power stabilizing device. SnO2, TiO2, ZnO materials will be optimised for sensors and (TiO2, ZnO,CuxS)or(CZTS, CuxS, TiO2) for the solar cells. Bacterial flagellar filaments will be investigated and engineered as sensitive biolayer for heavy metal detection. The project will provide a technology demonstrator and water monitoring system prototype.

Evolved anode materials for improved performance and durability of planar SOFCs Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2016-0676 2017 - 2018

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA DIN CRAIOVA

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA DIN CRAIOVA (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Project website: http://chimie.ucv.ro/expand/

Abstract:

This project aims to develop and test an experimental model for SOFC single cell with improved anode performance. An interdisciplinary partnership which brings together two institutions with complementary experience and capabilities in order to attain the project goal is created. Ceramic materials with improved properties will be used for the preparation of SOFC cermets anode. Based on previous research results, pyrochlore and cuspidine titanates with increased conductivity under reducing atmosphere will be used to obtain the cermet anode. The metallic component of the cermet will be nickel. Due to the improved electrical conductivity of the ceramic component, a decrease of nickel content in the cermet is expected. Thus, the degradation of anode performance during long term operation by nickel agglomeration can be diminished. Therefore, the outcomes of the project can ensure an increase of the SOFC system lifetime and performance. The results will be communicated at prestigious scientific events and published in high quality journals, increasing the international visibility of the research teams involved in this project.

Energy biogenerators: Design of new electrocatalysts for PEMFCs working with bioethanol with application for portable devices Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA 2013 - call
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-1758 2014 - 2017

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); Ministerul Apararii Nationale prin Centrul de Cercetare Stiintifica pentru Aparare CBRN si Ecologie (RO); STIMPEX S.A. (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Project website: http://www.unibuc.ro/prof/florea_mi/Proiect-de-cercetare-PCCA-56-20140/index.php

Abstract:

The scientific and technical challenges facing fuel cells technology is the cost reduction and increased durability of materials and component. The challenges are substantial and require scientific breakthroughs and significant technological developments coupled with a continued social commitment. Therefore, our partnership proposes to undertake a two years research program with the aim to develop a unique fuel cells based energy system for portable applications. The fuel cells will be powered directly by bioethanol and will be in the electrical power range of 0.001-100w.

The development of an appropriate electrocatalyst to achieve high activity, high stability and high selectivity for the anodic oxidation of bioethanol in a micro-fuel cell power source will be the main outcome of the project. Surprisingly, there is a lack of data in the literature concerning the effect of non-noble metals on the activity of electrocatalytic materials. The project aims at filling this lack, by providing a low metal loading and low cost catalyst formulation to be used as anode in the fuel cell, and this makes ERGBIOGEN project new and original.

The project requires the close association and collaboration between experts in the fields of materials, catalysis, electrochemistry and engineering. This is fulfilled by the choice of the consortium, and therefore this project presents a collaborative consortium of four leading research groups from Romania, with complementary expertise.

Improving oral and systemic health using dental works from modified alloys Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA 2013 - call
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-0869 2014 - 2017

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIV.DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE - CAROL DAVILA

Project partners: UNIV.DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE - CAROL DAVILA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI (RO); R&D CONSULTANTA SI SERVICII S.R.L. (RO); DENTAL ART GROUP SRL (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Project website: http://cercetare-umf.ro/proiecte_parteneriate

Abstract:

The project proposal entitled “Improving oral and systemic health using dental restorations from modified alloys” is addressed to the priority field 4 Health and has as goal the improvement of oral and systemic health of the population through implementing new methods of prevention and intervention at national level having capacity of international expansion. Having the central objective the improvement of the health level mainly through the offer of medical services of prevention, the project will contribute to the reduction of costs in the field of health. The offer is elaborated under the competent and representative direction of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, the Faculty of Dental Medicine, another 2 Universities, 1 Institute of research of the Romanian Academy and 2 co-financing SMEs. This consortium is by definition inter- and pluri-disciplinary and exhibits synergy and complementarity due to the contribution of Medicine, Chemistry and Biology to the achievement of the central objective and it shall benefit of the un-financed support of an European partner (Universita’ del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”) well known in the field of oral pathology, partner which shall participate to the activity of research and dissemination of results. This partner with experience and tradition will enhance the chances of the project both at level of the choice of the best methods of prevention and intervention in oral health and also at the level growing the visibility of the research. As derived objectives to achieve the central goal, the project takes into consideration the formation of target groups of patients according to the following criteria of selection: the detection of lichenoid reactions, of a metallic pigmentary lesions; the existence of dental alloys (CoCr, CoCrMo, etc. used at mass level) which favoured the release of ions and the absorption due to materials imperfections. The project will also form proof-lots including in the study a high number of patients comprising also patients who did not use dental alloys, fact which will allow the set out of the cause of the diseases and of the most appropriate treatments for all the studied cases. Both the scientific background and the expertise of the 6 partners as well as the richness of human and material resources represent a warranty that it is possible to overlap the knowledge about the creation of an improved alloy (CoCrZr or Nb) capable to reduce the potential for serious diseases such as Lichen Planus. The project analyses the sick tissue and the amount of ions released chemically and biologically and to compare the behaviour of the existing materials with that of our new alloy. The improvement of the dental alloy will aim at both the composition as well as the surface state at micro- and nano- level. The trial of these materials will be performed in simulating conditions respecting the corresponding regulations form the European space of operation including the norms of bio-ethics and bio-security and the informed agreement of the patient. The results of the project will be disseminated and exploited both at level of health services as well as at level of co-financing partners who will develop technology and innovating dental works from improved alloys at reduced costs, fact that emphasizes the co-relation between the thematic of the project and the strategy of development of the SMEs partners. Obtaining a patent and publishing 5 research works in international publications of high impact is a prognosis of result indicators that complete the process indicators. The benefits of implementing the project and its exploitation after ending will grow the quality of life through precocious detection of diseases and their treatment and also through the proposal of a new less dangerous and less toxic alloy. The co-financing SMEs will develop as well the commercialisation capacity subsequent to the production of materials with high market potential.

Electronic Nose for detection of low concentration pollutant and explosive gases Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA 2013 - call
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-1487 2014 - 2017

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE- DEZVOLTARE PENTRU MICROTEHNOLOGIE - IMT BUCURESTI INCD (RO); ROMELGEN S.R.L. (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Project website: http://www.icf.ro/pr_2014/PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-1487/

Abstract:

The aim of the project is the realization of an „electronic nose” for detection of very low concentration of pollutants and explosive gases. To obtain such a device, a microsensor array will be fabricated using integrated and miniaturized silicon based microtransducers. The microtransducers containing a microheater and interdigitated electrodes on top are built on a thin Si3N4 membrane suspended on four arms. The microsensor array will contain metallic-oxide based sensors, namely TiO2, ZnO and HfO2 nanostructured materials with special morphologies, with large surface areas, patterned on top of the interdigitated electrodes. These are one order of magnitude more sensitive than „normal materials” and able to detect very small quantity of gases. The novelty of the project consists: a) the significant improvement of properties of the proposed materials by controlling the nanometer-level architecture oxide (nanostructures) by forming ordered nanoporous structures, nanorods, nanotubes, spheres, and thin films with controlled morphology and porosity; b) new technology for microsensors fabrication with very low power consumption; c) using HfO2 nanotubes obtained by chemical methods for sensor application. The microsensor array based on TiO2, ZnO and HfO2 nanostructured materials will be tested as sensors for 7 gases: H2, CO, propane, NOx, NH3, CH4, H2S. The microsensor arrays will be encapsulated and coupled with an electronic module which will allow interfacing with a computer. A laboratory platform and a mobile apparatus for gas detection will be elaborated and tested especially for interior microclimates. The use of the microsensors together with information technology will improve these microclimates and will reduce their energy consumption.

New chemical systems based on nanocrystalline frameworks and porous architectures for Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells(IT-SOFC)operating with biogas Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA-2011 call, Type 1
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2011-3.1-1423 2012 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI (RO); UNIVERSITATEA DIN CRAIOVA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Project website: http://www.icf.ro/pr_2011/NANOBIOSOFC/index.html

Abstract:

Energy production based on fossil fuels is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) offer a great potential for increasing efficiency of power generation with additional environmental benefits. SOFC technology is currently under development. The state-of-the-art SOFC is operating at about 1000°C with high manufacture cost and low lifetime. The objective of the NANOBIOSOFC project is to improve this situation. Therefore, new chemical systems based on crystalline frameworks and porous architecture (with tailored structure, texture and morphology) and new cost-effective synthesis procedures will be developed in the framework of this project. The catalytic and electrochemical properties of the synthesized materials will be further investigated in order to select the appropriate preparation procedure and composition for each SOFC component (e.g. anode, electrolyte, and cathode), as well as the optimal operating conditions. Several thin film deposition procedures will be used for the manufacture of single SOFC. SOFC testing under various conditions will be carried out. Thus, the most appropriate manufacture procedure which allows the highest performance under long-time operation conditions will be identified. The expected impacts and outcomes of this project are:

- Integrate and develop new materials for improving SOFCs technology;

- Increase knowledge about the influence of composition, structure and processing conditions on the catalytic and electrochemical properties of nanomaterials;

- Gain understanding of component interactions and processes in single SOFC fueled with biogas.

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