A device enabling quantification of molecular and nanoparticle diffusion within thin solvated films

2026-07-22

The objective of the DIFFUSION project is to develop an easy-to-use device to analyse diffusion processes within thin solvated films. This new analytical tool will overcome a current bottleneck in the development of functional coatings for a wide range of applications, from fundamental research in biophysics and microbiology to real-life applications in biomaterials and paints. Driven by analytical needs during the ERC Starting Grant project JELLY my team and I conceived the DIFFUSION technology. The technology has the potential to enhance research and development in industry and academia – in material sciences and engineering, physics, chemistry and biology – wherever functional thin films/coatings are developed or used. It enables the analysis of molecular and nanoparticle diffusion within thin solvated films, thus providing new information that is instrumental to the development and quality control of films/coatings with superior performance and new functions yet has so far been challenging to assess. The technology is conceived as a modular add-on device that enhances the capabilities of the users' existing existing optical microscopy setups. An initial market analysis has already shown that there is broad interest in the method in academia and industry, and that the solution we aim to offer would be attractive. This Proof of Concept grant is required to develop a second-generation prototype to demonstrate that a cost-effective and easy-to-use device is feasible, to demonstrate its added value with selected application examples covering target research and development areas, and to develop a commercialisation plan including the identification of an industrial partner that is ready to build on the second-generation prototype and rapidly move a device into production and commercialisation.

United Kingdom (UK)

2026-02-01