An article, which is based on research started a few years ago by Alexander Vinogradov and Vladimir Vinogradov together with a group of authors from The Institute of Solution Chemistry (ISC RAS) in Ivanovo, was published in February in The Journal of Physical Chemistry C. Nanocomposites based on solid solutions were first obtained in the experiments today. These solutions contain copper and nickel particles and have unique optical and magnetic properties.
"At the beginning of the experiment we had a few goals," Alexander Vinogradov says. "We wanted to create materials, which could change their optical characteristics under the influence of a magnetic field. Based on these tasks a logical chain of work was built, during which we have come to some quite unexpected results." 
During the chemical experiments with nickel, which is typically used in such cases, nanocrystalline nickel and copper particles have been "sewn" together. Thus, the scientists managed to obtain a material which has some improved magnetic and plasmonic properties. According to Alexander, this feature is unique, and an explanation of these processes in the article for The Journal of Physical Chemistry C answers to many questions in the field of magneto-optical modulating in colloidal systems.
"We are not the pioneers in the field of three-dimensional optical modulating in colloidal systems, which is interesting for all those involved in magnetism researches," the employee of the laboratory says. "But we were the first to show the unique optical modulation of the monochromatic light beam that interacts with a colloidal solution of the synthesized nanocomposite. Moreover, the unique nature of the material affected its behavior and stability in the solutions contributing to the formation of filamentous assemblies with high ductility. Such systems can be used as optical shutters or transmission information sources of a new type. The main thing that we got is the improved light management in a magnetic field."
Fortunately, in the laboratory there are lots of developments aimed at the market. One of them is wound healing biocovers based on sol-gel materials. Behind the sophisticated name lies nanocomposite which in appearance resembles a regular hand cream, but has an effective a healing effect. Moreover because of the large number of pores in the material, free circulation of oxygen and water on the skin is ensured, limiting the penetration of external bacteria.
 
"We try to work with some practical things because the staff of the laboratory is young, and we all are focused on results. Besides, we live in a competitive society, where everyone has to understand what he is doing something for." Alexander says.
Another promising, and according to the chief research officer opinion - revolutionary development, is the one, created by Andrey Drozdov, the unit engineer. It is called sol-magnetite. It looks like a usual dark liquid, but if you bring a magnet, a part of it will be attracted to the magnet. That is, in fact, it is a liquid magnet, a complex synthetic material that can be actively used in the elimination of tumor cancer cells. The resulting material was fully approved for parenteral administration, is stable over time and in its structure there are just magnetic nanoparticles dispersed in an aqueous medium.
"The tumor consists of cells that support their livelihoods through the capillaries that carry nutrients the cell needs from the blood," the scientist explains. "Accordingly, if we form a clot in the capillary, the access of these substances will stop and she just withers away. Like a dead tissue it can be removed safely. A blood clot can be created with the use of the "liquid magnet" with nanoparticles by introducing the solution locally. Next, the particles must be heated by placing an external magnetic field: this will cause local blood clotting, forming thrombus. Of course, during this time, the patient should be observed by doctors." 
The implementation of such products on the market is a difficult and long enough process. To achieve this goal the leading world laboratories from Israel, Canada and Germany connect to the research process. The laboratory has a close cooperation with them.
"Can you imagine how many lives could be saved, in case this substance appears on the market? If we will save at least one person it will mean we are not doing our job for nothing," Alexander Vinogradov summarizes.