BrainMap

Mr. Liviu Nedelcu

PhD

Senior Researcher - INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Researcher

Web of Science ResearcherID: B-9882-2011

Expertise & keywords

Adaptable compact microwave antenna based on phase-change materials. Call name: PNCDI IV, SP 5.7.1 - Proiect experimental demonstrativ
PN-IV-P7-7.1-PED-2024-0949 2025 - 2027

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); ROMANIAN INSPACE ENGINEERING SRL (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://infim.ro/project/antena-adaptabila-compacta-pentru-microunde-pe-baza-de-materiale-cu-schimbare-de-faza/

Abstract:

"Adaptable compact microwave antennas based on phase-change materials” (ANCOSM) project will focus on developing innovative solutions to improve the characteristics of microwave antennas based on multifunctional materials. The main features of these antennas are easy integration into compact devices, low cost, and, most importantly, their ability to operate across a broad electromagnetic spectrum. Obtaining such an antenna involves the development of new integration solutions correlated with the properties of the materials so as to find the optimal solution that would allow the achievement of the desired performance. In this direction, within the project, microwave antennas based on multifunctional phase change materials (PCM) will be designed and realized by exploiting the metal-insulator transitions (MIT) of the VO2 material. The integration of antenna elements with components based on phase-change materials will allow changing the operating central frequency and will meet the current requirements for highly reconfigurable, integrated, and efficient devices. By pursuing this innovative avenue, the project aspires to contribute significantly to the field of microwave antennas, pushing the boundaries of performance, integration, and cost-effectiveness. The outcomes may hold implications for a wide array of applications, from communication devices to sensor networks, establishing a foundation for future advancements in antenna technology.

Temperature-compensated composites produced by spark plasma sintering for wireless communication and surveillance systems Call name: PNCDI IV, SP 5.7.1 - Proiect experimental demonstrativ
PN-IV-P7-7.1-PED-2024-2315 2025 - 2027

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); ROMANIAN INSPACE ENGINEERING SRL (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://infim.ro/en/project/tempero

Abstract:

The project aims to develop temperature-compensated dielectric composites (TCDCs) that can simultaneously achieve size reduction, performance enhancement, and thermal stability of the passive microwave devices. The main objective is to exploit the capabilities of spark plasma sintering technique to fabricate low-loss Mg4Nb2O9 – TiO2 composites with a tailored drift of the relative permittivity. Using empirical equations such as Maxwell-Garnett and Bruggeman, Mg4Nb2O9 – TiO2 mixtures will be designed by varying the TiO2 content within the range where thermal compensation is anticipated. In addition to usual physico-chemical characterizations (X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy), the dielectric parameters of the composites will be explored through impedance spectroscopy, MW spectroscopy, and terahertz spectroscopy. By analyzing the “synthesis - microstructure – properties” cycle, the technology for fabricating “highly-densified” TCDCs with low dielectric loss in the microwave domain will be developed. The demonstrator device will be a small, lightweight antenna designed for operation in the X band.

A green approach in the frame of circular economy: robocasted photocatalysts for wastewater treatment and use of reclaimed water in agriculture Call name: PNCDI IV, P 5.8 - SP 5.8.1 - COFUND-2023
COFUND-WATER4ALL-WATER Green Treat-1 2024 - 2027

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI (RO); MAGYAR AGRAR- ES ELETTUDOMANYI EGYETEM, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety (HU); UNIVERSIDAD DE EXTREMADURA (ES); CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE CNRS, GEPEA UMR6144 (FR)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://infim.ro/en/project/a-green-approach-in-the-frame-of-circular-economy-robocasted-photocatalysts-for-wastewater-treatment-and-use-of-reclaimed-water-in-agriculture/

Abstract:

The aim of this proposal consists in the obtaining macroporous photocatalysts based on ecogenic metal oxides (ecoMO) (ZnO/CuO) composites through the robocasting technique, but also the evaluation the synergistic effect induced by the presence of microalgae in the removal of specific pollutants for wastewater treatment and the use of regenerated water in agriculture. The main objectives of the project are the following: (i) green synthesis of photo-catalysts based on metal oxides (ZnO, CuO) nanoparticles (NPs), (ii) 3D-printing structures based on ecogenic metal oxides by robocasting, (iii) the use of the obtained 3D photocatalytic structures based on metal oxides NPs to remove contaminants such as antibiotics or dyes from the wastewater generated by pharmaceutical/textile industry, (iv) the use of the microalgae to reduce the pollutant species generated during the photocatalysis process, and (v) the assessment of the synergistic effect induced by the 3D photocatalytic structures and microalgae at laboratory/semi-industrial/greenhouse level on synthetic wastewater (by adding drugs/dyes) and in real wastewater (treatment plants). This project has the following specific objectives: 1) Phytosynthesis and characterization of metal oxide, metallic NPs and their composites. 2) The use of ecoMO to treat, in laboratory, various synthetic wastewaters (containing organic dyes, drugs, etc.). 3) In vitro biological investigations [cytotoxicity evaluation by acute and chronic Aliivibrio fischeri assays (ISO 11348), acute algae (OECD 201) and Daphnia (OECD 202), and zebrafish embryo toxicity assay (OECD 236)]; and the ecoMO bio-impact on terrestrial and aquatic media will be tested. 4) The synthetic/real wastewaters (before and after the treatment with robocasted photocatalysts based on ecoMO composites) will be tested as follows: (i) in vivo on plants grown in the greenhouse (didactic and scientific research resort); (ii) in vitro on Aliivibrio fischeri for acute cytotoxicity (ISO 11348 standard) and for chronic toxicity in a high throughput assay adapted to microplates; Daphnia acute tests; and acute toxicity measurement on zebrafish eggs for wastewater qualification (ISO 15088). 5) Evaluation of the detoxification efficiency of different composite samples based on ecological metal oxide (ecoMO) nanoparticles and their robocasted photocatalysts by microalgae culture in a treated wastewater environment, but also of the synergistic effect induced by the presence of microalgae on the ecological composite of metal oxide nanoparticles or their robocasted photocatalysts based on ecoMO composites for the removal of certain pollutants. Upon our knowledge, there are no reports regarding robocasted photocatalysts based on ecoMO composites (ZnO/CuO). In the frame of circular economy, it is necessary to identify and develop efficient technologies for treatment of the residual waters generated by pharmaceutical, textile, etc. industries in order to use the reclaimed water for agriculture. The elimination of the pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) and dyes from water generated from pharmaceutical and textile industry is vital for using the reclaimed water in other fields such as agriculture. Thus, reclaimed water obtained through a synergistic effect induced by 3D-printed photocatalytic structures and microalgae can be used in agriculture activities. Moreover, taking into account that the increase of periods with high temperature has the direct effect of decreasing the flow of surface water, which also influences the flow of shallow underground water, the population can be constrains to reduce the crop irrigation. This impediment can be mitigated by reusing treated wastewater in agriculture. Consequently, the outcome of our proposal can improve the resilience and adaptation capacity of wastewater treatment facilities within the frame of hydroclimatic extreme events.

Development of a New Class of Instruments for Measuring Laser Energy and Power Call name: PNCDI IV, SP 5.7.1 - Proiect de transfer la operatorul economic
PN-IV-P7-7.1-PTE-2024-0459 2025 - 2026

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: APEL LASER S.R.L.

Project partners: APEL LASER S.R.L. (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://apellaser.ro/proiecte/dezvoltarea-unei-noi-clase-de-instrumente-de-masura-a-energiei-si-puterii-laser/

Abstract:

The spread of laser equipments in the transportation and medical industries is recording a constant increase. A key aspect in utilizing laser technology is calibration and ensuring that the devices always function at their optimum parameters. The only convenient method to reliably determine the status of the device is to analyse the properties of the emitted radiation. Thus, the project proposes an innovative concept for a laser energy/power meter.

At the core of the project there will be detailed investigations of pyroelectric materials and of the principles of calorimetric measurements. Such films and elements will be deposited and prepared by the partners from INCDFM. The coordinating team from Apel Laser will provide the mechanical, electronic and data transfer integration elements of the device, necessary for satisfying the future commercial requirements.

This collaboration aims to innovate some key aspects of laser radiation sensors, such as metallic surface layers for enhancing the induced electrical signal, utilizing different combinations of polymeric, dielectric and composite metamaterials to ensure a wide absorption spectrum. It is also desired to implement a ‘light-trap’ geometry to facilitate multiple absorptions and increase the thermal variation within the device and improve the detection limit.

At the end of the preliminary tests the processes necessary for implementation will be optimised.

Emissive NanoMagnet structures with optically excited magnetization for applications in communications technologies. Call name: P 4 - Proiecte de cercetare exploratorie - PCE-2021
PN-III-P4-PCE-2021-0573 2022 - 2024

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://infim.ro/project/structuri-nanomagnetice-emisive-cu-magnetizare-excitata-optic-pentru-aplicatii-in-tehnologiile-comunicatiilor/

Abstract:

The project intends to develop a THz emission technology and build a proof-of-concept demonstrator of a spintronic THz emitter, made of L10 phase ferromagnetic/non-magnetic bilayers, where the spin-to-charge current transition, all-optically stimulated will be proven to result in controlled and tunable THz pulse emission with reproducible parameters (pulse length and repetition rate), applicable in THz communication devices and non-destructive testing fields.

Multifunctional dielectric materials produced by spark plasma sintering for passive microwave devices Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2019-3351 2020 - 2022

Role in this project: Project coordinator

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: https://infim.ro/project/master-2/

Abstract:

Low-loss temperature stable dielectric materials have been used to decrease the cost and size of the passive microwave devices (eg. filters, oscillators, multiplexers, antennas). The main objective of the project is to exploit the versatility of the spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique in order to prepare Zr1-xSnxTiO4 (ZST) solid solutions with various shapes whose multifunctional properties set the ground for development of the new generation of high performance microwave devices. Even though has several advantages, SPS can produce a lot of oxygen vacancies in oxide materials and such defects increase the dielectric loss. In order to overcome this drawback, as-sintered sample will be ex-situ annealed in air or oxygen atmosphere. Apart of usual structural and morphological characterizations, the extrinsic contribution to the losses will be investigated by microwave spectroscopy and terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. Through the analysis of the “synthesis - microstructure – properties” cycle, the technology suitable for fabrication of “zero-porosity” ZST ceramics with low dielectric loss in microwave domain will be developed. The targeted results would allow achieving of materials with multifunctional properties with a breakthrough potential in terms of efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the passive microwave devices required in the future monitoring and communications systems.

Technologic paradigms in synthesis and characterization of variable dimensionality systems Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0152 2018 - 2021

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII CRIOGENICE SI IZOTOPICE - I.C.S.I. RAMNICU VALCEA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA DE VEST TIMISOARA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE- DEZVOLTARE PENTRU MICROTEHNOLOGIE - IMT BUCURESTI INCD (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA TEHNICA-IFT IASI (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://infim.ro/project/vardimtech/, http://infim.ro/project/vardimtech-en

Abstract:

Last decades brought a considerable development of technologies based on ordered systems. Starting with semiconductor physics and photovoltaics, technologies soon evolved towards the utilisation on large scale of thin films and of surface / interface properties. Example go nowadays from data storage and readout (electrostatic or magnetic memories, giant magnetoresistance) to catalysis, gas sensors or photocatalysis (surface phenomena), and towards interfaces with biological matter (biosensors, templates for tissue reconstruction, interfaces between biological electrical signals and microelectronics). In Romania, crystal growth is performed since half a century; nevertheless, during the last years these activities fade out and need to be seriously reinforced, especially with the advent of new laser and detector technologies required by the Extreme Light Infrastructure facilities. Also, surface science started to be developped seriously only during the last decade, together with techniques involving self-organized nanoparticles, nanoparticle production etc. The main goal of this Project is to gather the relevant experience from the five partners, namely the experience in crystal growth from the University of Timișoara, with the surface science, nanoparticle and nanowire technologies developped by NI of Materials Physics, the cryogenic and ultrahigh vacuum techniques provided by the NI for Cryogenic and Isotopic Technologie, and the experience in ordered 2D systems (graphene and the like) owned by the NI for Microtechnologies (IMT). This common agenda will result in a coherent fostering of technologies relying on ordered systems of variable dimensionalities: 0D i.e. clusters or nanoparticles, including quantum dots; 1D i.e. free and supported nanowires and nanofibers; 2D: surfaces, interfaces and graphene-like systems; and 3D crystals of actual technological interest, together with setting up new ultrahigh vacuum, surface science and electron spectroscopy techniques.

Intrinsic properties in microwave dielectric materials investigated by terahertz time-domain spectroscopy Call name: P 1 - SP 1.1 - Proiecte de cercetare pentru stimularea tinerelor echipe independente
PN-III-P1-1.1-TE-2016-1711 2018 - 2020

Role in this project: Project coordinator

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://infim.ro/en/project/intrinsic-properties-in-microwave-dielectric-materials-investigated-by-terahertz-time-domain-spectroscopy

Abstract:

The main goal of the project is the investigation of extrinsic sources that degrade the complex permittivity of low-loss dielectrics/ ferroelectrics in microwaves, millimeter-waves, and submillimeter-waves. The studies will be focused on the broad-band frequency behavior of bulk dielectrics (titanates, tantalates, niobates) and thin/thick film ferroelectrics (barium tinanate-based films) with different microstructures. In this sense, samples will be prepared by using several experimental techniques (conventional ceramic technology, spark plasma sintering, radio frequency–magnetron sputtering, and pulsed laser ablation deposition). Apart of usual structural and morphological characterizations (X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy), the extrinsic contribution to the complex permittivity will be investigated with following innovative techniques: terahertz time-domain spectroscopy, split ring resonator, quasi-optical free-space measurements, and spectroscopic ellipsometry. It is aimed to solve through the analysis of the synthesis - microstructure - properties cycle a very important scientific and applied problem of national and international interest. This knowledge will allow to achieve the intrinsic limit of dielectric properties of materials with low-loss microwaves, millimeter-waves, and submillimeter-waves.

Integration of new and improved MAterials for Smart millimeTER-wave Sensors Call name: P 3 - SP 3.2 - Proiecte ERA.NET
M.ERANET-3194-MASTERS 2016 - 2019

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://infim.ro/en/project/integration-of-new-and-improved-materials-for-smart-millimeter-wave-sensors/

Abstract:

The MASTERS project is focusing on innovative solutions for the improvement, above the current state-of-the-art, of both security and power consumption of millimeter-wave sensors, by exploiting the permitivity agility of ferroelectric materials. Indeed, the integration of these intelligent and functional materials in practical devices will meet the current requirements for highly reconfigurable, integrated, safe, efficient and low power-consuming devices. The final goal of the project is the design and realization of original on-chip reconfigurable sensors as practical and efficient demonstrators for industrial applications, as a first step toward the establishment of innovative and highly-efficient market-oriented devices. Thanks to the structural, technological advantages and background of the MASTERS multi-national consortium and the expertise of the industrial partner, the project will create smart and user friendly solutions for sensing devices.

Investigations on advanced dielectric materials and structures in Terahertz and millimeter waves Call name: Exploratory Research Projects - PCE-2012 call
PN-II-ID-PCE-2012-4-0654 2013 - 2016

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Project website: http://www.infim.ro/node/4190

Abstract:

At the present, terahertz technology is certainly one of the most dynamic research fields with wide variety of applications: terabit wireless communication, spectroscopy, biology, medical sciences, food control, security systems, etc. The project aims to investigate advanced conventional as well as structured materials in Terahertz and millimeter wave range. On one hand, highly accurate characterization methods of complex perovskite dielectrics (bulk and thin films) with high values of the product between the quality factor and the frequency will be developed for millimeter wave and Terahertz range. The application of development methods to measure ferroelectric perovskites in Terahertz range is very important for such applications as tunable photonic crystal filters. On the other hand, numerical and experimental investigations on structured materials will allow the study of the Terahertz spoof surface plasmon-polaritons in new complex geometries. The electromagnetic simulation, fabrication and characterization of the proposed materials and structures will benefit of recent acquisitioned state-of-the-art equipment in the host institution. The final outcome of the project will consist in solution for an improved controlled of the electromagnetic radiation in millimeter wave and Terahertz range.

Terahertz Spectroscopy of Low-Loss Microwave Dielectrics Call name: Postdoctoral Research Projects - PD-2011 call
PN-II-RU-PD-2011-3-0237 2011 - 2013

Role in this project: Project coordinator

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Fizica Materialelor

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Fizica Materialelor (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Fizica Materialelor (RO)

Project website: http://www.infim.ro/projects/terahertz-spectroscopy-low-loss-microwave-dielectrics

Abstract:

The aim of the present project proposal is to investigate the intrinsic and extrinsic sources and the mechanisms of the dielectric loss in advanced microwave dielectric ceramics. This proposal approach a new research domain in Romania, which international has a rapid increase in the last years. The project proposal is focused on the synthesis, characterization, and optimization of some dielectrics materials, which exhibit high permittivity and low dielectric loss in the microwave domain. The investigations will begin with studies of the phenomenological correlations between the dielectric loss and the composition, the microstructure, the grain–boundary conditions, the crystal structure, etc. The project proposal will cover the entire research cycle, starting with the material preparation, continuing with the investigation of the physical properties, and ending with model for potential applications. In order to achieve the desired objectives the obtained materials will be examined by means of various techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, electron microscopy, and broad-band dielectric spectroscopy(1 GHz-7 THz). The results obtained should result in an identification of the key elements and factors that control the microwave and millimeter wave dielectric properties, especially the dielectric loss.

Compact and integrated agile antennas based on tunable ferroelectric materials Call name: Joint Research Projects Romania-France - IDROFR-2012 call
PN-II-ID-JRP-RO-FR-2012-0160 2012 -

Role in this project: Partner team leader

Coordinating institution: National Institute of Materials Physics

Project partners: National Institute of Materials Physics (RO); XLIM UMR 7252 CNRS/ Université de Limoges (FR)

Affiliation: National Institute of Materials Physics (RO)

Project website:

Abstract:

The project will create an integrated compact and low power consumption reconfigurable antennas exploiting the agility of ferroelectric materials.

Indeed, the main property of such a material is to change their dielectric permittivity depending on an external electric field through a non-linear dielectric effect. To reach both low power consumption and the best trade-off between miniaturization and efficiency, wireless communication devices have to reach a 3D integration (move toward on-chip reconfigurable antennas).

Compact antennas are limited by fundamental physical limits (in terms of bandwidth and radiation performances), are disturbed by antennas' surrounding and so totally dependent on their using context. Developing an antenna integrating tunable elements allows to change:

-The antenna operating frequency band: it is the ideal alternative to compensate various housings and environments.

-The angle of the radiation boresight: that means an optimization of the link budget and thus an enhancement of the quality and the reliability of wireless links.

The reconfigurable antennas state-of-the-art presents varactor diodes, MicroEiectroMechanical systems (MEMS), Positive Intrinsic Negative (PIN) diodes, Field Effect Transistor (FET) and tunable ferroelectric materials to tune antenna's matching bands or to steer the radiating beam. PIN diodes have only two states and thus do not allow the antenna to be tuned over a wide frequency band. FETs have too high power consumption and the range of the variable capacitance based on MEMS is limited when its top membrane collapses onto the bottom plate. Varactor diodes are the most widely referenced and used for reconfigurable antennas. However, their characterization according to antenna designer criteria reveals a very low power handling capability. Thus, antennas integrating such components can be only used for reception devices. For future generation of low-powered wireless sensors or cognitive radio, devices have to be connected. Antennas using varactor diodes will no longer be integrated in new generation devices.

This is in the framework of these technical barriers that ferroelectric materials present a great alternative. Indeed, the agility of ferroelectric materials allows developing tunable antennas and the films depositions technology is particularly interesting when tunable capacitors and antenna need to be integrated both together.

This project requires multiple competences in different areas: Materials, electromagnetic simulation and devices characterizations. It needs to link the various complementary competences of the three partners:

• The Xlim laboratory to develop new modeling methods to simulate thin films within an antenna and also for the ferroelectric materials characterization from RF to millimeter frequency bands. Two teams from the laboratory (OSA and MINACOM) will be associated to this project

• The SPCTS laboratory for its maturity on materials development and thin films deposition by Pulsed Laser Deposition of numerous materials for electronic and optic applications. These 2 Labs are already associated in the 'excellence Laboratory'

Sigma-LIM.

• The NIMP (National Institute of Materials Physics) for the expertise in preparation and characterization of bulk, thin and thick film materials, as well in devices, which use advanced materials.

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