Research
Another day, another enigma unraveled – this is certainly the case for researchers from ITMO and Krasnoyarsk Science Center, who recently published a paper on a major breakthrough in nanomaterials.
Until now, scientists were unable to explain the unusual resonance phenomena that occur within small (3-10 nm) nanoparticles. But the recent study, which resulted in the completion of a new theoretical model, should make it possible to predict the optical properties of ultrafine particles – and, in turn, allow researchers to create all-new materials for medicine and computing.
Read more: ITMO Researchers Solve Mystery of Ultrafine Plasmonic Particles
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In yet another collaboration, scientists from ITMO and the Almazov Center have devised an MOF-based composite that can be used to quickly detect industrial contamination – namely, toxic materials or water by-products, which are common in the manufacture of chemical products. This even includes transparent, odorless substances like dimethylformamide.
Read more: New Composite for Ultrafast Durable Sensors Developed at ITMO
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There’s only ever so much that an “expiration” date or a “best before” date can tell us about the quality of food products. But what if the label itself could sense whether or not it’s safe to eat? A research team from ITMO has recently won a grant for their project, which revolves around a smart label that reacts to hazardous bacteria in foods, even in cases where they might appear otherwise harmless.
Read more: Smart Expiration Date Indicators Developed at ITMO
University
In 2023, ITMO.NEWS first reported on “cube labs,” an ingenious solution developed at the university in order to allow sensitive research to be conducted within the context of education and training. With two labs already in operation, ITMO and manufacturer Prolab are now planning to deliver six more within the coming year. The mini-facilities will be provided to high schools for use in practical training.
Read more: Cube Laboratories for Bacteria and Cell Experiments To Appear in Russian Schools
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Over the years, an ever-growing number of promising startups has emerged out of the ITMO Accelerator. Recently, ITMO.NEWS caught up with a few of the program’s top graduates to see what they’ve been up to. From long-term storage for organic produce to packaging made out of starch and pomace – these projects have flourished and made a name for themselves in the tech world.
Popular science
These days, who isn’t aware of the oft-repeated adage about the importance of sunscreen? The sun is a deadly laser, or so the meme goes – yet, as with all things, the true science of the subject is a lot more complex. We decided to take a scientific look at all the good things the sun does for us. From mental health and sleep quality to the evolutionary implications of the great big lamp in the sky – check it out!
Read more: Sunlight: Friend or Foe?
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“Science can tell us how art is made. Scientists can tell us why, from a technical point of view, a particular painting has a particular effect on the viewer,” says one of the creators of Masterpieces Through Scientists’ Eyes, a new exhibition at the State Russian Museum created in collaboration with ITMO University. From the otherworldly glow of Rembrandt’s works to the real-world basis of an Old Testament myth, there’s a lot of unexpected context that modern research can give us on the works of the classics.
Read more: The Science of Art: ITMO and the Russian Museum Reveal Science Facts Behind Iconic Masterpieces
