Skip to main content
 

Stellar Systems Group

Stellar Systems Group


The Stellar Systems Group (SSG) was created in 1988. Its members are mainly dedicated to the study of large stellar structures, stellar clusters and star formation via observations of resolved stellar populations in the Local Group. As concerns methodology, we focus on developing data bases - for example on Galactic O star and the Galactic Centre, exploiting massive data - such as the Gaia and J-PAS surveys, image analysis techniques for high angular resolution, and machine learning.
Main specialization

Physics of the Interstellar Medium

Physics of the Interstellar Medium


The research carried out by the group is devoted to the study of the physical processes in the interstellar medium associated with the early and late stages of the stellar evolution. These are the phases of the stellar evolution where the stars have the strongest interactions with the interstellar/circumstellar medium through stellar winds, outflows, and accretion of material. The main topics covered in this line are: (i) Early Stages of Star Formation; (ii) Late Stages of Stellar Evolution: Planetary Nebulae and Radio Supernovae.
Main specialization

Molecular design of catalysts

Molecular design of catalysts


Design and synthesis of mono- and multifunctional catalysts with well defined, homogeneous active sites. Characterization by means of spectroscopic techniques combined with the use of probe molecules. Study of their reactivity in chemical processes, defined by a single step or by several steps (cascade reactions).
Main specialization

CATREDOX

CATREDOX


Synthesis, characterization and catalytic properties of solid catalysts based on mixed metal oxides for oxidation-reduction catalytic processes for the functionalization of paraffins, olefins and biomass derivatives. Partial oxidation and total oxidation reactions of hydrocarbons. Synthesis of solid catalysts (acids and superacids) for the transformation of petroleum derivatives, natural gas and biomass.
Main specialization

SYNGAS

SYNGAS


Development of advanced multifunctional catalysts for the production of low-carbon fuels and chemicals from renewable feedstocks such as captured CO2 and bio-syngas.
Main specialization

Porous Materials for Adsorption, Separation and Environmental Applications

Porous Materials for Adsorption, Separation and Environmental Applications


Development, advanced characterization and theoretical studies of new porous materials for their employ in separation and adsorption processes of industrial or environmental interest and catalytic processes for removal of contaminants. Recentrly, we have launched a new research line focusses on the development of new materials with biocide and antifungical properties for fruits.
Main specialization

Energy conversion and storage

Energy conversion and storage


The group's activities include fundamental study of functional materials and devices, as well as design, development of devices and processes with a clear industrial orientation. The main areas of work are: 1. Development of fuel cells and electrolysers, typically for operation above 250 º C. 2. Catalytic conversion for energy processes, including the synthesis or electrosynthesis of different fuels and intermediate reactions as water gas shift in a wide range of temperatures. 3.
Main specialization

Nanomedicine

Nanomedicine


Multidisciplinary group in the ITQ. All members have a high background in Material Science, Chemistry and Biomedicine.
Main specialization

Photocatalysis

Photocatalysis


Conversion of solar energy into fuels and chemical compounds. The group has capabilities for the preparation of metal-free photoactive materials (graphene and carbon nitrides), 2D nanomaterials (MXenes, metal chalcogenides and hydrotalcites) as well as perovskites and other oxides, sulphides and phosphides. The group characterises the band energies (XPS, Tauc plot, Mott-Schottky). Transition states are characterised by nano- and femtosecond laser flash, charge carrier density and resistance (photolelectric response and Nyquist curve) and electrochemical techniques.
Main specialization

Functional Nanostructured Devices for Energy haRvesting and management (FINDER)

Functional Nanostructured Devices for Energy haRvesting and management (FINDER)


One of the greatest challenges of the 21st century is the rationalization, optimization and reduction of the environmental impact of the use and production of energy. World demand is growing, supplies are declining, and environmental conservation is a global issue. The group addresses three major issues within energy recovery and management: i) its extraction from the surrounding environment for its direct conversion into electricity, ii) increased energy efficiency, and iii) active heat management.
Main specialization