(Łukasiewicz Research Network – Poznań Institute of Technology)

maciej.szymkowski@pit.lukasiewicz.gov.pl 

Project heart: download

Prof. Przemysław Dera
(from the University of Hawaii in Honolulu, USA)

pdera@hawaii.edu

and

Prof. Krzysztof Woźniak
(from the Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Poland)

kwozniak@chem.uw.edu.pl

Each of us runs well defined labs in Warsaw and Honolulu where the planned research can be accomplished. We think that maybe Prof. Zhuk who publishes in a similar field could potentially be interested in such collaboration (or maybe you could suggest somebody). We want to apply to a trilateral programme  called “International Multilateral Partnerships for Resilient Education and Science System in Ukraine (IMPRESS-U)” which is jointly operated by USA and Poland.

We will design, synthesize and characterize new improved selective sorbents based on solidified ionic liquids by integrating quantum crystallography and machine learning-driven structure search. These ionic salts, composed of metal cations, imidazole-derivative cations, and dicarboxylic acid anion, are expected to offer a breakthrough in the efficiency and sustainability of N₂ removal. Quantum crystallography offers a new window into the microscopic world, allowing for an in-depth understanding of electronic structures and interactions between gas molecules and sorption sites and detailed map of charge distribution around the sorption sites. Machine learning-driven structure search utilizing structural and electron density features identified as key in controlling sorption allows to rapidly process vast libraries of potential compounds and quickly identify best candidates for efficient gas absorption.

This project presents a unique opportunity for Ukrainian researchers and students, offering them access to advanced quantum crystallography methods and machine learning techniques to develop more efficient absorbers for nitrogen removal from natural gas. By partnering with the University of Hawaii and Warsaw University, Ukrainian participants will gain invaluable exposure to international research environments and state-of-the-art instrumentation, which might not be readily available in Ukraine. This collaboration will not only enhance their practical and theoretical knowledge in a cutting-edge field but also foster international academic networks and cultural exchange. Furthermore, the supplementary funding available for Ukrainian participants from your country’s funding agency IMPRESS-U program underlines a commitment to their professional development and the strengthening of Ukraine’s scientific capabilities. This initiative promises to be a catalyst for significant academic and professional growth for the Ukrainian researchers and students involved, contributing positively to the advancement of Ukraine’s scientific and technological landscape.

We are looking for Ukrainian partner(s) who would be interested in such a project and would like to joint us in our application. As we want to apply within the next month this is quite urgent to find proper partner(s). We are very grateful for your help in finding scientific partners.

Raymond L. Orbach

Professor – Modified Service, The University of Texas at Austin, USA.

orbach@utexas.edu