TÍTULO: NANOPARTÍCULAS MAGNÉTICAS: SÍNTESIS VERDE PARA REMEDIACION Y ELECTRÓNICA SOSTENIBLES

Autor: Carlos Díaz Ufano (ICMM-CSIC)

Supervisado por: Sabino Veintemillas (ICMM-CSIC)

Cuándo: 1 de julio, martes, a las 3.30PM

Dónde: Salón de Actos, ICMM-CSIC

Abstract: One of the main challenges that nanotechnology must address is environmental pollution. The presence of pollutants in water and soil, resulting from industrial activity and inefficient waste management, has driven global policies to promote sustainable technological development. In this context, nanotechnology emerges as a powerful tool capable of providing innovative and sustainable solutions. 
In this thesis, the synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles (oxides, metals, and alloys) has been explored using synthesis routes that offer an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional methods. By optimizing parameters such as precursor concentration, surfactants, coatings, temperature, and solvents, materials with specific properties have been developed for applications in environmental remediation and sustainable electronics. 
A key finding of this work is the critical role of adsorption as a fundamental step in catalytic processes. The results demonstrate that the greater the amount of pollutants adsorbed on the surface of the nanoparticles, the more effective the subsequent degradation in advanced oxidation processes. Specifically, near-total removal of dyes such as methylene blue has been achieved within just 2 hours. Furthermore, it has been shown that the application of an alternating magnetic field significantly enhances the process compared to ambient temperature conditions, enabling the degradation of twice the amount of contaminants in the same time.
Another fundamental aspect of this work is the successful preparation of metallic nanoparticles without the use of strong reducing agents. Their nanometric size facilitates sintering, which enhances their electrical conductivity, making them suitable for use as components in biodegradable electronic inks. This approach offers an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional conductive materials, reducing the impact of electronic waste while maintaining the functional properties required for electronic applications. 
In conclusion, this research underscores the potential of sustainable nanotechnology in addressing environmental challenges. By harnessing eco-friendly synthesis methods and optimizing critical processes like adsorption and sintering, the study not only advances the degradation of pollutants through enhanced catalytic activity but also opens new avenues in the development of biodegradable electronic materials. These findings contribute significantly to the evolution of green technologies in both environmental remediation and sustainable electronics.