By Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden - IFW Dresden
The Surface-Functionalized Materials Group, led by Dr. Amin Bahrami, specializes in the atomic-scale modification, functionalization, and protection of advanced materials using Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD). By exploiting the unique capabilities of ALD, including angstrom-level thickness control, exceptional conformality, precise composition tuning, and superior control over surface reactions, the group develops innovative surface and interface engineering strategies for next-generation technologies. The team's research covers a broad spectrum of functional materials, including energy materials such as thermoelectric materials and active components for metal-ion batteries, biomaterials, textiles, catalysts, and advanced electronic materials. A major focus is the development of novel ALD processes for challenging material systems, including elemental metals (e.g., Bi, Cu, Sb), semiconductors, two-dimensional materials, complex oxides, and multifunctional nanostructures, enabling new opportunities in energy conversion, energy storage, electronics, and sustainable technologies. Beyond conventional surface coatings, the group utilizes the outstanding conformality and scalability of ALD to functionalize complex three-dimensional structures, including powders, porous materials, biomedical implants, and electronic components. These capabilities enable the design of advanced protective layers, tailored interfaces, and multifunctional coatings that enhance material performance, stability, and lifetime.
