Pysico-Chemical Characterization (PC²)
The PC2 platform comprises a wide range of instruments, including: liquid and solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers, X-ray diffractometers for single crystals and powders, instruments for analyzing textural properties (nitrogen physisorption, mercury porosimetry, etc.), instruments for analyzing chemical composition (combustion chemical analysis, ICP-OES, etc.), as well as various separation techniques (chromatography, centrifugation, etc.).), instruments for analyzing chemical composition (combustion chemical analysis, ICP-OES, etc.), and various separation techniques (chromatography, centrifugation, etc.). The combination of these techniques with the presence of two research logisticians and a technician dedicated to sample analysis, as well as highly qualified researchers for the development of advanced applications, reflects the strategic intent of this platform. Among these characterization techniques, solid-state NMR and X-ray diffraction are the most advanced and unique characterization tools.
Synthesis, Irradiation and Analysis of Materials (SIAM)
The SIAM platform specializes in the advanced synthesis and characterization of materials and nanomaterials. It actively contributes to fundamental research in (bio)materials science, particularly in terms of characterizing surfaces, interfaces and ion/material interactions, in collaboration with international university laboratories. SIAM's analytical capabilities enable it to study a wide range of samples from fields as diverse as materials science, life sciences and heritage science. One of SIAM's key assets is its recognized expertise in spectroscopy (XPS and ToF-SIMS), which can be coupled with nuclear analysis (Ion Beam Analysis or IBA). Thanks to state-of-the-art equipment, all support is provided by a highly qualified team in a dynamic of continuous development and innovation. As part of the University of Namur, SIAM is a privileged partner both for academic research projects and for the provision of services to industrial and institutional players.
Lasers, Optics and Spectroscopies (LOS)
The LOS platform is developing its expertise around optical methods for the study of materials. LOS recently acquired a Raman scattering microscope for the analysis of liquids, powders, solids and thin films, both organic and inorganic. This technique can be used to identify a sample's chemical composition and structure, as well as certain properties of the medium. Raman spectroscopy can be used to characterize polymers, nanomaterials, pharmacological compounds, geological materials, precious stones, heritage objects and food products, to name but a few. In imaging mode, this technique can map the distribution of a compound in a heterogeneous sample, as well as detect traces.
