BrainMap

Mrs. Simona Somacescu

Senior Researcher I

Researcher - INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Researcher

I am a researcher in materials chemistry, with exprtize in the design, synthesis, and functionalization of mesoporous materials for advanced energy and sensing applications. My work focuses on developing mesoporous materials through hydrothermal synthesis routes for SOFC and PEMFC applications, as well as gas sensors, with particular emphasis on tuning surface chemistry and porosity during synthesis. I have contributed to the development of innovative functional materials with enhanced performance, as reflected in publications in international journals and interdisciplinary collaborations aimed at improving the efficiency, stability, and sensitivity of electrochemical and sensing devices.

Web of Science ResearcherID: https://publons.com/researcher/2809089/simona-somacescu/

Curriculum Vitae (13/06/2025)

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: Partner team leader

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: STIMPEX S.A. (RO)

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.

Insights about sensing mechanisms with Nickel oxide based gas sensors Call name: P 4 - Proiecte de Cercetare Exploratorie, 2020
PN-III-P4-ID-PCE-2020-0506 2021 - 2023

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: https://infim.ro/project/perspective-despre-mecanismele-de-detectie-cu-senzori-de-gaze-bazati-pe-oxid-de-nichel/

Abstract:

Among different types of sensors, those based on semiconducting metal oxides stands out through their: robustness, selective sensitivity, low fabrication costs and infield operation (presence of the relative humidity, variable temperature, the presence of potential interfering gases, etc.).

The idea of the current project proposal consists in exploring the intrinsic nature of Nickel Oxide (NiO) as sensitive material together upon inspired chemical synthesis pathways, merging towards extracting the insights of its gas sensing performances towards different target gases (CO, CO2, NO2, CH4, NH3, SO2, H2S) adapted to work under infield conditions.

The research work employs interdisciplinary vision of the team spanning from: chemical-physics and theoretical physics.

The novelties brought by the project are:

- Structure-functioning relationships will be highlighted by understanding the role of sensing and transducing features with multi-dimensional NiO nanostructured based sensors. Through inspired chemistry synthesis, NiO morphologies will be tailored to maximize the gas sensing performances.

- The challenge is to fuse the theoretical predictions with the realistic gas sensing outputs into an overview image about the nature of gas surface interactions.

The outputs from phenomenological and catalytic investigations will guide the theoretical modeling towards extending the gas surface model of NiO sensors.

3D laser printed absorbable scaffolds with a prolonged biomechanical stability in human body fluids. Call name: P 4 - Proiecte de Cercetare Exploratorie, 2020
PN-III-P4-ID-PCE-2020-0992 2021 - 2023

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://www.icf.ro/pr_2020/PCE-234-2021/index.html

Abstract:

Novel biomaterials for temporary orthopedic implants are one of the most challenging areas of exploratory research in advanced materials. Third generation biomaterials are designed to be both resorbable and bioactive, that is, the implant will be temporary, and once implanted, it will help the body heal itself. The aim of this project is to progress toward a novel absorbable scaffold biomaterial for temporary orthopedic implants, through hierarchically structured surfaces that protect the scaffold, effective to convey higher corrosion tolerance and increased scaffold strength retention for extended periods in body fluids while at the same time capable to stimulate human osteoblast cell proliferation behavior. Specific objectives are (i) the design and fabrication of 3D printed scaffold structures with biocompatible elements by rapid solidification from melt through laser additive manufacturing-3D printing; (ii) the development of original cost-effective surface modification procedures for surface protected scaffolds (SPS) with enhanced corrosion tolerance and bioactivity; (iii) the determination of bare and SPS corrosion rates and corrosion mechanisms in human physiological fluids of pH and chloride concentrations reproducing the most exigent conditions for implant use; and (iv) the assessment of the scaffold-cell constructs to initiate tissue repair processes and osteogenesis; contributing to Romanian research with: 1 patent, 4 scientific articles, 6 conference presentations

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: Partner team leader

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.

COMPLEX VALORISATION OF BLACK SEA REGION BIORESOURCES BY DEVELOPING AND APPLYING INNOVATIVE AND EMERGING BIOTECHNOLOGIES Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0701 2018 - 2021

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA OVIDIUS

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA OVIDIUS (RO); INSTITUTUL NAŢIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE MARINĂ "GRIGORE ANTIPA"-I.N.C.D.M. CONSTANŢA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU STIINTE BIOLOGICE (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); STATIUNEA DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU VITICULTURA SI VINIFICATIE MURFATLAR (RO)

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

Project website: https://univovidius.wixsite.com/inobiomar

Abstract:

Natural products from marine species are increasingly studied as their functional properties are discovered. These properties have benefits for human health while depending on their geographical region of origin. As abundant marine resources with insufficiently exploited therapeutic potential exist, the present proposal aims to harness the Black Sea bioresources through developing innovative technologies for obtaining biorenewable pharmaceutics preparations. The membrane/bioadhesive disks preparations consist of bioactive compounds from marine extracts encapsulated into mesoporous functionalized silica matrices and have controlled release. The Black Sea bioresources valorization will be improved by using the residual biomass from technological flux as biofertilizer for vineyards. New technologies for efficient extraction and preservation of active ingredients, encapsulation in pharmaceutical and nanostructured silica matrices, obtaining modern, therapeutically/cosmetic efficient formulations tested in vitro, will be developed. The project will be completed by a multidisciplinary consortium composed of UOC, INCDM, UPB, INCDSB, having a new research center with personnel deficit (Romanian Academy-ICF) and a relaunching center- SCDVV Murtfatlar, which will develop and use the common infrastructure, existing and newly created human resources, both through the project implementation and future collaborations, while strengthening the partners’ institutional capacity through improving their services offers. The project will achieve TRL 5. The main goal of the complex project can be achieved through the complementarity of the 5 component projects, having 6 patent applications and developing new fabrication technologies for 3 pharmaceutical formulations with synergetic action as deliverables, which can be translated to economic beneficiaries.

From 2D to 3D+ nanoscale characterization of advanced functional materials Call name: P 4 - Proiecte de Cercetare Exploratorie
PN-III-P4-ID-PCE-2016-0529 2017 - 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/project/caracterizarea-la-scala-nanometrica-a-materialelor-functionale-avansate-de-la-2d-la-3d/

Abstract:

In materials science, when designing and investigating the chemo-physical properties of new materials the sine qua non starting point is represented by the necessity to identify, understand and control the microstructure of the examined material. Nanosciences and nanotechnology require manipulating nano-objects or even individual atoms, which requires complementary spectroscopic, diffraction and imaging techniques able to provide information at nanometric scale or below. One of the major challenges today in designing and engineering nanoscale functional materials is the complex 3D characterization on a nanometric scale. Electron tomography represents the only reliable technique to provide 3D morphological, structural and analytical information at nanometric scale. In our country we are now able to perform state-of-the-art analytical microstructural investigations by HRTEM, STEM and EELS, including atomic resolution elemental mapping or direct visualization of light atomic species. Electron tomography has been only introduced and developed in the field of life sciences, being currently applied in cellular biology, while electron tomography in materials science is not yet present. The scientific motivation of this project is to open the way at the national level towards electron tomography in materials science as a new dimension in the microstructural characterization of the advanced functional materials. The project will be focused on metal oxide semiconductors (MOS) functional materials to be used as gas sensors for environmental monitoring. Along with complementary spectroscopic techniques (EELS, XPS, EPR) the project will create a complete “3D+” insight (3 spatial + 1 spectroscopic dimensions) into the fine chemo-physical processes at nanometric scale in order to reveal and understand the connection between the 3D microstructural/spectroscopic properties and the functionality of the MOS gas sensing systems.

Mobilitate cercetător Simona Somacescu Call name: P 1 - SP 1.1 - Proiecte de mobilitate pentru cercetatori, 2019
PN-III-P1-1.1-MC-2019-2448 2019 - 2019

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

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

Project website:

Abstract:

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: Partner team leader

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: Partner team leader

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.

New BImetallic nanoparticles with applications in water CLEANing of chlorinated compounds and BIOSensors Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA-2011 call, Type 1
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2011-3.1-0054 2012 - 2016

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU STIINTE BIOLOGICE (RO)

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

Project website: http://www.icf.ro/pr_2011/Project_Bicleanbios.ppt

Abstract:

The project proposes the use eco-friendly bimetallic nanoparticles with controlled composition, morphology, structure and chemical state in catalytic and photocatalytic abatement of toxic chlorinated compounds in water via dehydrochlorination reaction. The fine tuning of nanoparticle structure prepared by polyol method is expected to bring crucial improvements by increasing the catalytic activity and resistance against poisoning compared to existing materials. A strategy for improving the catalytic performances is proposed by using ordered mesostructured Al2O3 as supporting material which will be synthesized by combined microemulsion-hydrothermal techniques. In addition, the photocatalytic hydrodechlorination reaction over bimetallic nanoparticles assembled in a controlled manner with TiO2 will be investigated for the first time. The materials will be characterized by a bunch of physico-chemical techniques (XRD, XPS, fractal analysis, gas titration TPO, TPR, Cyclic Voltammetry). Also they will be tested for cytotoxicity and genotoxicity.

Another important application envisaged is to develop new highly sensitive and stable biosensors based on bimetallic nanoparticles. The immobilized biorecognition element(s) on a modified working electrode with bimetallic NPs will be evaluated to identify the most promising systems for biosensor construction.

The targeted technical goal is to develop a laboratory technology for catalytic and photocatalytic degradation of chlorinated compounds in polluted waters. Sensitive and stable biosensors devoted to TCE assessment and based on bimetallic nanoparticles use are also planned to be developed at prototype level.

In order to achieve these ambitious objectives, in the three years proposed, a well-balanced and multidisciplinary consortium of three partners has been created. All the participant members have a well-established reputation in catalysis, material science, bio-chemistry and physico-chemical characterization techniqu

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: Project coordinator

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.

Rapid, innovative, soft-solution advanced processing of a new bioalloy surface for the improvement of its interactions with human fluids Call name: Exploratory Research Projects - PCE-2011 call
PN-II-ID-PCE-2011-3-0510 2011 - 2016

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: Institutul de Chimie Fizica "Ilie Murgulescu"

Project partners: Institutul de Chimie Fizica "Ilie Murgulescu" (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul de Chimie Fizica "Ilie Murgulescu" (RO)

Project website: http://www.icf.ro/pr_2011/JC/Index.html

Abstract:

Project theme is the elaboration of an innovative procedure for the controlled surface processing of a new bioalloy by combining for the first time of the chemical, electrochemical and bacteriostatic methods. This project represents a scientific novelty and enlarges the interdisciplinary research areas concerning the surface science, physical chemistry and electrochemistry in accordance with the international trends of increased bioactivity of bioalloy surfaces. Main objectives are: obtaining of nanoporous, controlled surface structures for the increase of the bioactivity, antibacterial action and life time of the implants (innovative procedures); complex and complete characterization (scientific novelties) of the new nanostructured surfaces by modern world-level techniques; modelling for the first time of the interfaces: structured metallic surface/human fluids by electrochemical methods (internationally competitive) demonstrating the improved bioactivity of new processed surfaces; analysis of the bioactivity and bacteriostatic properties on new functionalized surfaces (progress in the field); increase of Romanian research capacity and performance by: patent (1), scientific papers (6). Long term objectives are: improvement of the life quality and health state of the patients by the utilisation of the new implant biomaterial with nanostructured surfaces; an efficient utilisation of the natural resources by the increase of the „service life” of the processed surfaces.

Mobilitate cercetător Simona Somacescu Call name: PNCDI IV, SP 5.2.2 - Proiecte de mobilitate pentru cercetatori, MC-2024
PN-IV-P2-2.2-MC-2024-0307 2024 -

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website:

Abstract:

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