H2) Functional Nanocomposites and Hybrid Materials
Chair(s): Chaobin He (NUS) Co-Chair(s): Jianwei Xu (A*STAR), Jun Ma (Adelaide University, Australia), Xianhu Liu (Zheng Zhou University, China) Symposium Scope/Topics Nanocomposites and hybrid materials with their heterogeneous structures that range from a few nm to 100 nm exhibit unique thermal mechanical, optical and electrical properties, and have been found many applications in aerospace, automotive, energy conversion and storage, infrastructure, maritime, health care technology and sport products. This symposium aims to gather researchers and industry professionals to exchange knowledge, showcase recent advances, and discuss future directions in the design, synthesis, processing, modeling and application of nanocomposites and hybrid materials. This symposium will cover the following topics: Nanoparticles synthesis, their surface modification, and interfacial interaction with matrices Applications of nanocomposites (energy, biomedical, electronic, optical, barrier, and structures, and other new applications.) Characterization of nanocomposite structure and constituent phases, Modelling of nanocomposites and interfaces, Fracture mechanics, and the performance of nanocomposite materials & devices Invited Speakers To be confirmed Nanocomposites and hybrid materials with their heterogeneous structures that range from a few nm to 100 nm exhibit unique thermal mechanical, optical and electrical properties, and have been found many applications in aerospace, automotive, energy conversion and storage, infrastructure, maritime, health care technology and sport products. This symposium aims to gather researchers and industry professionals to exchange knowledge, showcase recent advances, and discuss future directions in the design, synthesis, processing, modeling and application of nanocomposites and hybrid materials. This symposium will cover the following topics: Nanoparticles synthesis, their surface modification, and interfacial interaction with matrices Applications of nanocomposites (energy, biomedical, electronic, optical, barrier, and structures, and other new applications.) Characterization of nanocomposite structure and constituent phases, Modelling of nanocomposites and interfaces, Fracture mechanics, and the performance of nanocomposite materials & devices To be confirmed
H1) Recent Advances in Polymer Recycling and Upcycling
Chair(s): Jason Lim (IMRE), Zhiqun Lin (NUS) Co-Chair(s): Eugene Chen (Colorado State University, USA) Symposium Scope/Topics The proposed Advances in Polymer Recycling and Upcycling symposium for ICMAT 2027 aims to provide an academic platform for experts, researchers, and professionals in the fields of polymer science and engineering, materials science and engineering and chemical and biomolecular engineering to delve into recent advances, challenges, and future opportunities in polymer recycling and upcycling. The symposium will propel the academic understanding and exploration of sustainable practices in polymer recycling and upcycling. The symposium will facilitate discussion and knowledge sharing to promote such sustainable practices and advancements in polymeric materials, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future. Target Audience The symposium is tailored for academic researchers and students specializing in polymer science and engineering, materials science and engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, and related disciplines. The participants are encouraged to present their research findings, engage in academic discussion, and collaborate for future research prospects of polymer recycling and upcycling. The symposium covers but is not limited to the following 6 topics. Innovative Recycling Techniques and Processes Delving into the forefront of recycling methodologies, encompassing advanced mechanical, chemical, thermal, catalytic and enzymatic processes tailored for efficient polymer waste recycling. Abstracts in this area are sought. Polymer Degradation and Monomer Recovery Exploring chemical mechanisms and reactions that facilitate the degradation of polymers into valuable monomers or precursors, with a focus on enabling effective recycling. Abstracts in this area are sought. Characterization of Recycled Polymers Utilizing advanced analytical techniques to characterize the composition, structure, and properties of recycled polymers, enabling informed material design and development. Abstracts in this area are sought. Upcycling of Plastic Waste Investigating innovative approaches to transform recycled polymers into high-value materials, products, and/or applications, promoting upcycling and sustainable reuse. Abstracts in this area are sought. Sustainable Polymer Synthesis and Design Exploring sustainable approaches and strategies for designing polymers with recyclability in mind, minimizing environmental impact in both synthesis and end-of-life phases. This will include emerging classes of polymers such as covalent adaptable networks and biomass-derived polymers. Abstracts in this area are sought. Expected Outcomes of the Symposium Facilitate academic discussion and knowledge exchange in the field of polymer recycling and upcycling. Promote collaboration and cultivate new avenues of research across various scientific disciplines, including polymer science and engineering, materials science and engineering, chemistry, and chemical and biomolecular engineering. Provide a platform for researchers to present their latest findings and innovations. Stimulate academic and industry partnerships for sustainable polymer materials development. Invited Speakers To be confirmed The proposed Advances in Polymer Recycling and Upcycling symposium for ICMAT 2027 aims to provide an academic platform for experts, researchers, and professionals in the fields of polymer science and engineering, materials science and engineering and chemical and biomolecular engineering to delve into recent advances, challenges, and future opportunities in polymer recycling and upcycling. The symposium will propel the academic understanding and exploration of sustainable practices in polymer recycling and upcycling. The symposium will facilitate discussion and knowledge sharing to promote such sustainable practices and advancements in polymeric materials, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future. Target Audience The symposium is tailored for academic researchers and students specializing in polymer science and engineering, materials science and engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, and related disciplines. The participants are encouraged to present their research findings, engage in academic discussion, and collaborate for future research prospects of polymer recycling and upcycling. The symposium covers but is not limited to the following 6 topics. Innovative Recycling Techniques and Processes Delving into the forefront of recycling methodologies, encompassing advanced mechanical, chemical, thermal, catalytic and enzymatic processes tailored for efficient polymer waste recycling. Abstracts in this area are sought. Polymer Degradation and Monomer Recovery Exploring chemical mechanisms and reactions that facilitate the degradation of polymers into valuable monomers or precursors, with a focus on enabling effective recycling. Abstracts in this area are sought. Characterization of Recycled Polymers Utilizing advanced analytical techniques to characterize the composition, structure, and properties of recycled polymers, enabling informed material design and development. Abstracts in this area are sought. Upcycling of Plastic Waste Investigating innovative approaches to transform recycled polymers into high-value materials, products, and/or applications, promoting upcycling and sustainable reuse. Abstracts in this area are sought. Sustainable Polymer Synthesis and Design Exploring sustainable approaches and strategies for designing polymers with recyclability in mind, minimizing environmental impact in both synthesis and end-of-life phases. This will include emerging classes of polymers such as covalent adaptable networks and biomass-derived polymers. Abstracts in this area are sought. Expected Outcomes of the Symposium Facilitate academic discussion and knowledge exchange in the field of polymer recycling and upcycling. Promote collaboration and cultivate new avenues of research across various scientific disciplines, including polymer science and engineering, materials science and engineering, chemistry, and chemical and biomolecular engineering. Provide a platform for researchers to present their latest findings and innovations. Stimulate academic and industry partnerships for sustainable polymer materials development. To be confirmed
G3) Next-Generation Integrated Photonics: Materials, Integration, and Systems
Chair(s): Xianshu Luo (NSTIC), Di Zhu (NUS) Co-Chair(s): Bowei Dong (IMRE), Liu Liu (Zhejiang University, China), Yating Wan (KAUST, Saudi Arabia) Symposium Scope/Topics Silicon photonics has emerged as a transformative platform for integrated optical systems, enabling low-cost, high-volume manufacturing with CMOS compatibility. This symposium will explore the latest advancements in silicon photonics and its evolution towards heterogeneous integration with novel materials and functionalities. The aim is to bring together researchers, technologists, and industry experts to discuss innovations that extend the capabilities of silicon photonics beyond traditional boundaries. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to: Advanced silicon photonic devices (modulators, detectors, filters, switches) Integration of III-V, lithium niobate, 2D materials, and other non-silicon platforms Co-packaged optics and photonic-electronic co-design Photonic packaging, reliability, and thermal management Foundry services, PDKs, and design automation for scalable manufacturing Applications in data communication, sensing, LiDAR, quantum, and AI acceleration Emerging material systems and processes for next-generation photonic integration Challenges in yield, testing, and commercialization of heterogeneous photonic systems This symposium encourages submissions from academia, research institutes, and industry, and aims to foster collaboration across material, device, circuit, and system levels. Invited Speakers To be confirmed Silicon photonics has emerged as a transformative platform for integrated optical systems, enabling low-cost, high-volume manufacturing with CMOS compatibility. This symposium will explore the latest advancements in silicon photonics and its evolution towards heterogeneous integration with novel materials and functionalities. The aim is to bring together researchers, technologists, and industry experts to discuss innovations that extend the capabilities of silicon photonics beyond traditional boundaries. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to: Advanced silicon photonic devices (modulators, detectors, filters, switches) Integration of III-V, lithium niobate, 2D materials, and other non-silicon platforms Co-packaged optics and photonic-electronic co-design Photonic packaging, reliability, and thermal management Foundry services, PDKs, and design automation for scalable manufacturing Applications in data communication, sensing, LiDAR, quantum, and AI acceleration Emerging material systems and processes for next-generation photonic integration Challenges in yield, testing, and commercialization of heterogeneous photonic systems This symposium encourages submissions from academia, research institutes, and industry, and aims to foster collaboration across material, device, circuit, and system levels. To be confirmed
G2) Colloidal Semiconductor Nanocrystals for Optoelectronics and Photonics
Chair(s): Hilmi Volkan Demir (NTU) Co-Chair(s): Maksym Kovalenko (ETH Zurich-Swiss, Switzerland), Andrey Rogach (CUHK, Hong Kong China), Emek Durmusoglu (NTU) Symposium Scope/Topics Colloidal semiconductor nanomaterials—such as CdSe quantum dots and colloidal nanoplatelets—offer precise control over size, shape, and composition through solution-phase synthesis, making them highly promising for next-generation optoelectronic devices. Fundamental problems with size, shape, structure (core/shell, core/crown/shell), and surface chemistry define the properties which are tailored for specific applications. Strong quantum confinement in these nanomaterials facilitates efficient spontaneous emission for light-emitting diodes (LEDs), while type-II heterostructures enable optical gain and lasing at reduced thresholds. Furthermore, careful band alignment with neighboring layers can enhance performance in photovoltaic cells and photodetectors. This symposium will highlight recent advances in the synthesis, surface functionalization, assembly, and integration of colloidal nanomaterials, along with their implementation in optoelectronic and photonic systems. The program will span from fundamental studies to emerging device applications. Topics will include: Synthesis, Surface Chemistry and Assembly Advanced synthesis of colloidal quantum dots, nanoplatelets and perovskites. Heterostructure engineering of colloidal nanocrystals (core/shell, core/crown, type-I and type-II heterostructures) Surface chemistry and ligand exchange strategies Self-assembly and large-area integration techniques (e.g., film formation, patterning, and coatings) Optical Properties and Spectroscopy Spectroscopy and imaging techniques for probing nanocrystal properties Carrier dynamics, exciton behavior, and energy transfer mechanisms Charge separation and recombination in nanocrystal-based heterostructures Transport studies in assembled nanocrystal systems Multiexciton generation and stimulated emission Polarization control, circular dichroism, and nonlinear optical effects Light-Emitting Devices and Lasing Applications Colloidal nanocrystal and their performance in LEDs Colloidal nanocrystal for low-threshold optical gain and lasing Integration with microcavities and photonic structures Patterned nanocrystals for displays and photonic circuitry Emerging use in quantum nanocrystals and single-photon emission platforms Photodetectors, Solar Cells, and Energy Harvesting Colloidal nanocrystal in photovoltaic devices Photodetectors based on quantum dots, nanoplatelets and perovskites Emerging applications in optical sensing and integrated photonics Invited Speakers Xiaogang Peng Zhejiang University Jochen Feldmann Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Victor Klimov Los Alamos National Laboratory Nicholas Kotov U Michigan David J. Norris ETH Zurich Handong Sun University of Macau Yuanyuan Wang Nanjing University Xuyong Yang Shanghai University Christian Klinke University of Rostock Abhishek Srivastava Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Sergio Brovelli Università degli Studi di Milano Soong Ju Oh Korea University Gao Yuan Shandong University Burak Guzelturk Argonne National Laboratory Maryna Bodnarchuk Empa-Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology Himchan Cho KAIST Julian Schneider Nanoco Technologies Ltd Alexander Efros Naval Research Lab Philippe Guyot-Sionnest University of Chicago Richard Schaller Argonne National Laboratory Colloidal semiconductor nanomaterials—such as CdSe quantum dots and colloidal nanoplatelets—offer precise control over size, shape, and composition through solution-phase synthesis, making them highly promising for next-generation optoelectronic devices. Fundamental problems with size, shape, structure (core/shell, core/crown/shell), and surface chemistry define the properties which are tailored for specific applications. Strong quantum confinement in these nanomaterials facilitates efficient spontaneous emission for light-emitting diodes (LEDs), while type-II heterostructures enable optical gain and lasing at reduced thresholds. Furthermore, careful band alignment with neighboring layers can enhance performance in photovoltaic cells and photodetectors. This symposium will highlight recent advances in the synthesis, surface functionalization, assembly, and integration of colloidal nanomaterials, along with their implementation in optoelectronic and photonic systems. The program will span from fundamental studies to emerging device applications. Topics will include: Synthesis, Surface Chemistry and Assembly Advanced synthesis of colloidal quantum dots, nanoplatelets and perovskites. Heterostructure engineering of colloidal nanocrystals (core/shell, core/crown, type-I and type-II heterostructures) Surface chemistry and ligand exchange strategies Self-assembly and large-area integration techniques (e.g., film formation, patterning, and coatings) Optical Properties and Spectroscopy Spectroscopy and imaging techniques for probing nanocrystal properties Carrier dynamics, exciton behavior, and energy transfer mechanisms Charge separation and recombination in nanocrystal-based heterostructures Transport studies in assembled nanocrystal systems Multiexciton generation and stimulated emission Polarization control, circular dichroism, and nonlinear optical effects Light-Emitting Devices and Lasing Applications Colloidal nanocrystal and their performance in LEDs Colloidal nanocrystal for low-threshold optical gain and lasing Integration with microcavities and photonic structures Patterned nanocrystals for displays and photonic circuitry Emerging use in quantum nanocrystals and single-photon emission platforms Photodetectors, Solar Cells, and Energy Harvesting Colloidal nanocrystal in photovoltaic devices Photodetectors based on quantum dots, nanoplatelets and perovskites Emerging applications in optical sensing and integrated photonics Xiaogang Peng Zhejiang University Jochen Feldmann Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Victor Klimov Los Alamos National Laboratory Nicholas Kotov U Michigan David J. Norris ETH Zurich Handong Sun University of Macau Yuanyuan Wang Nanjing University Xuyong Yang Shanghai University Christian Klinke University of Rostock Abhishek Srivastava Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Sergio Brovelli Università degli Studi di Milano Soong Ju Oh Korea University Gao Yuan Shandong University Burak Guzelturk Argonne National Laboratory Maryna Bodnarchuk Empa-Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology Himchan Cho KAIST Julian Schneider Nanoco Technologies Ltd Alexander Efros Naval Research Lab Philippe Guyot-Sionnest University of Chicago Richard Schaller Argonne National Laboratory
G1) Optically Resonant Nanostructures
Chair(s): Arseniy Kuznetsov (IMRE) Co-Chair(s): Cesare Soci (NTU), Mark Brongersma (Stanford University, USA), Yuri Kivshar (Australian National University, Australia), Nikolay Zheludev (University of Southampton, UK) Symposium Scope/Topics The symposium will cover major topics of resonant nanophotonics including resonant effects in both metallic and high-index dielectric nanostructures and their applications. We will consider both novel nanophotonic concepts as well as applications, including industry perspective on the field. The Symposium will cover the following topics: Nanoantennas: scattering directivity, near-field and fluorescence enhancement, strong coupling effects; Metasurfaces and their applications, including flat optics; Multi-layer and multi-element flat optics systems; Active light-emitting nanophotonic nanodevices and nanolasers; Dynamically tunable nanoantennas and metasurfaces; Nonlinearities in resonant nanostructures; Quantum nanophotonics; New physical phenomena related to resonances in dielectric and plasmonic nanostructures (topological, non-local, non-Hermitian, spatial-temporal and others). Emerging material platforms for nanophotonics Industry perspective and applications Invited Speakers To be confirmed The symposium will cover major topics of resonant nanophotonics including resonant effects in both metallic and high-index dielectric nanostructures and their applications. We will consider both novel nanophotonic concepts as well as applications, including industry perspective on the field. The Symposium will cover the following topics: Nanoantennas: scattering directivity, near-field and fluorescence enhancement, strong coupling effects; Metasurfaces and their applications, including flat optics; Multi-layer and multi-element flat optics systems; Active light-emitting nanophotonic nanodevices and nanolasers; Dynamically tunable nanoantennas and metasurfaces; Nonlinearities in resonant nanostructures; Quantum nanophotonics; New physical phenomena related to resonances in dielectric and plasmonic nanostructures (topological, non-local, non-Hermitian, spatial-temporal and others). Emerging material platforms for nanophotonics Industry perspective and applications To be confirmed
F7) Supramolecular Assemblies at Surfaces: Nanopatterning, Functionality, Reactivity
Chair(s): Federico Rosei (University of Trieste, Italy) Co-Chair(s): Lu Jiong (NUS) Symposium Scope/Topics Molecular self-assembly at surfaces is a burgeoning field dealing with the use of hydrogen bonds, metal-organic coordination, van der Waals forces and, in some cases, covalent bonds to form two-dimensional long-range ordered patterns. As this field matures, there has been a recent surge of interest in controlling the formation of covalent oligomers and polymers at surfaces, following the need to create more robust structures that may have advanced functionalities. The former are model systems for organic thin film growth to be used as active materials in, e.g. organic electronic devices; the latter are organic analogs of graphene, i.e. planar conjugated structures with semiconducting rather than ballistic conducting behavior. This symposium will bring together leading scientists from inorganic and organic chemistry and surface physics communities presenting recent breakthroughs in the formation and characterization of functional molecular architectures at surfaces by self-assembly as well as using surface-confined reactions to facilitate bottom-up synthesis of linear conjugated polymers (aka molecular wires), graphene nanoribbons and two-dimensional polymers. Invited Speakers To be confirmed Molecular self-assembly at surfaces is a burgeoning field dealing with the use of hydrogen bonds, metal-organic coordination, van der Waals forces and, in some cases, covalent bonds to form two-dimensional long-range ordered patterns. As this field matures, there has been a recent surge of interest in controlling the formation of covalent oligomers and polymers at surfaces, following the need to create more robust structures that may have advanced functionalities. The former are model systems for organic thin film growth to be used as active materials in, e.g. organic electronic devices; the latter are organic analogs of graphene, i.e. planar conjugated structures with semiconducting rather than ballistic conducting behavior. This symposium will bring together leading scientists from inorganic and organic chemistry and surface physics communities presenting recent breakthroughs in the formation and characterization of functional molecular architectures at surfaces by self-assembly as well as using surface-confined reactions to facilitate bottom-up synthesis of linear conjugated polymers (aka molecular wires), graphene nanoribbons and two-dimensional polymers. To be confirmed
F6) Materials are not Perfect: Role of Chirality in Designing Material Functionality
Chair(s): Prashant Kumar (NTU) Co-Chair(s): Bart Kahr (NYU, USA) Symposium Scope/Topics Chirality-driven materials are rapidly evolving from molecular curiosities into multifunctional hybrid systems that couple optical, electronic, and biological responses. This focused session will explore the frontiers of hybrid chiral materials—including inorganic–organic assemblies, plasmonic–dielectric composites, and supramolecular architectures, that transduce chirality into measurable photonic and biosensing functionalities. Talks will highlight how asymmetric light–matter interactions, chiroptical amplification, and spin-selective transport can be engineered across scales, from single molecules and nanocrystals to mesoscale metastructures. Special emphasis will be placed on the integration of chiral materials into photonic cavities, microfluidic devices, and biointerfaces for enantioselective recognition, polarization-resolved imaging, and real-time biomolecular detection. By linking materials chemistry, spectroscopy, and device engineering, this symposium aims to chart emerging paradigms that connect structural chirality with functional transduction, paving the way for next-generation optical biosensors and light-responsive hybrid materials. Key topics that will be covered (but not limited to) – Design of hybrid chiral nanostructures combining inorganic and organic components Chiral plasmonic and excitonic coupling in photonic and metamaterial platforms Spin-selective charge transport and magneto-optical phenomena in chiral frameworks Integration of chiral materials in optical cavities, metasurfaces, and resonators Real-time biosensing using polarization-resolved and chiroptical detection schemes Self-assembly and symmetry breaking in chiral supramolecular and crystalline systems Theoretical modeling and spectroscopic mapping of light–matter chirality interactions Applications of hybrid chirality in bioimaging, disease diagnostics, and catalysis Invited Speakers To be confirmed Chirality-driven materials are rapidly evolving from molecular curiosities into multifunctional hybrid systems that couple optical, electronic, and biological responses. This focused session will explore the frontiers of hybrid chiral materials—including inorganic–organic assemblies, plasmonic–dielectric composites, and supramolecular architectures, that transduce chirality into measurable photonic and biosensing functionalities. Talks will highlight how asymmetric light–matter interactions, chiroptical amplification, and spin-selective transport can be engineered across scales, from single molecules and nanocrystals to mesoscale metastructures. Special emphasis will be placed on the integration of chiral materials into photonic cavities, microfluidic devices, and biointerfaces for enantioselective recognition, polarization-resolved imaging, and real-time biomolecular detection. By linking materials chemistry, spectroscopy, and device engineering, this symposium aims to chart emerging paradigms that connect structural chirality with functional transduction, paving the way for next-generation optical biosensors and light-responsive hybrid materials. Key topics that will be covered (but not limited to) – Design of hybrid chiral nanostructures combining inorganic and organic components Chiral plasmonic and excitonic coupling in photonic and metamaterial platforms Spin-selective charge transport and magneto-optical phenomena in chiral frameworks Integration of chiral materials in optical cavities, metasurfaces, and resonators Real-time biosensing using polarization-resolved and chiroptical detection schemes Self-assembly and symmetry breaking in chiral supramolecular and crystalline systems Theoretical modeling and spectroscopic mapping of light–matter chirality interactions Applications of hybrid chirality in bioimaging, disease diagnostics, and catalysis To be confirmed
F5) Advanced Materials for Thermoelectrics
Chair(s): Kedar Hippalgaonkar(NTU/IMRE), Alex Yan Qingyu (NTU) Co-Chair(s): D V Maheswar Repaka (IMRE), Kanishka Biswas (Jawaharlal Nehru Centre For Advanced Scientific Research, India) Symposium Scope/Topics Machine Learning, High Throughput Experiments and Process Optimization to synthesize bulk and nanostructured TE materials, accelerated analysis and testing Thermoelectric Materials Design, Synthesis and preparation (conjugated polymers, inorganic-organic hybrids, nanocrystal arrays, quantum dots, nanowires, nanocomposites, 2D materials) Thermoelectric Materials Characterization (Seebeck Coefficient, Thermal Conductivity – inplane and crossplane, Bulk thermoelectric coefficients, Thermoelectric Powerfactor, ZT) Thermoelectric Concepts Band Structure optimization in inorganic materials Aligned conducting polymers and their properties Structure-Property relations in thermoelectric materials Phonon Engineering to reduce thermal conductivity New Physical Phenomenon Energy-dependent scattering in hybrid materials Magnetic tunability of thermoelectric properties Multivalley degeneracy and band/scattering engineering to enhance powerfactor Novel ways to enhance Seebeck coefficient of polymers Design strategies for multifunctional thermoelectrics Novel Applications Thin film thermoelectrics Flexible & Wearable Electronics Next Generation low-cost, high efficiency devices Invited Speakers To be confirmed Machine Learning, High Throughput Experiments and Process Optimization to synthesize bulk and nanostructured TE materials, accelerated analysis and testing Thermoelectric Materials Design, Synthesis and preparation (conjugated polymers, inorganic-organic hybrids, nanocrystal arrays, quantum dots, nanowires, nanocomposites, 2D materials) Thermoelectric Materials Characterization (Seebeck Coefficient, Thermal Conductivity – inplane and crossplane, Bulk thermoelectric coefficients, Thermoelectric Powerfactor, ZT) Thermoelectric Concepts Band Structure optimization in inorganic materials Aligned conducting polymers and their properties Structure-Property relations in thermoelectric materials Phonon Engineering to reduce thermal conductivity New Physical Phenomenon Energy-dependent scattering in hybrid materials Magnetic tunability of thermoelectric properties Multivalley degeneracy and band/scattering engineering to enhance powerfactor Novel ways to enhance Seebeck coefficient of polymers Design strategies for multifunctional thermoelectrics Novel Applications Thin film thermoelectrics Flexible & Wearable Electronics Next Generation low-cost, high efficiency devices To be confirmed
F4) Materials for Nuclear Energy: Modelling, Experiments and Manufacturing
Chair(s): Andrew Ngo (FEAT, A*STAR), Michael Short (MIT, USA) Co-Chair(s): Shi Jie Wang (FEAT, A*STAR) Symposium Scope/Topics The symposium focuses on the scientific and engineering challenges in the development, characterization, testing, and deployment of nuclear materials capable of withstanding the extreme environments to be found in next-generation nuclear energy systems such as fission, fusion, and small modular reactors. The discussion spans across the full lifecycle of materials development – from discovery and testing to qualification, upscaling, deployment, and degradation management – emphasizing both fundamental understanding and technological implementation. The symposium will focus on the following themes with potential topics in bullet form: Materials Longevity and Degradation Mechanisms Fundamental studies and predictive models of long-term material performance under nuclear-relevant operating conditions Time-dependent degradation mechanisms, including creep, swelling, fatigue, and phase instability, with a special focus on those with incubation periods and non-linear progression Development of materials with enhanced resistance to radiation-induced embrittlement and corrosion simultaneously Aging effects in reactor structural materials (e.g., austenitic steels, ferritic-martensitic steels, ODS steels, SiC/SiC composites, tungsten alloys) and how to mitigate or ameliorate them Coupled Effects in Materials for Nuclear Systems Interactions of irradiation, high temperature, and corrosive environments (e.g., liquid metals, molten salts, high-pressure steam, supercritical CO₂) Synergistic effects on microstructural evolution, defect dynamics, and mechanical/thermal property degradation, especially during irradiation In situ studies of simultaneous corrosion and irradiation in candidate structural, cladding, and functional nuclear materials Impact of tritium permeation, helium embrittlement, and transmutation product accumulation on material performance Accelerated Nuclear Experimentation and Advanced Characterization Ion beam and surrogate particle irradiation for high-throughput screening of radiation tolerance, including intermediate energy proton irradiation (IEPI) Novel in situ testing under irradiation using synchrotron, neutron, and ion beam facilities Non-destructive evaluation (NDE) and real-time diagnostic tools (e.g., thermography, acoustic emission, electron microscopy, or material property measurement under irradiation) Development of miniaturized specimen testing protocols for reduced activation materials and radiation-shielded environments Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) and Data-Driven Approaches Multi-scale modeling of defect formation, transport, and accumulation Machine learning and AI tools for predicting material degradation and optimizing alloy design Digital twins and multiscale simulation frameworks for reactor materials life-cycle assessment Scale-Up, Qualification, and Manufacturing Advanced manufacturing routes for nuclear-grade materials, including additive manufacturing (AM), powder metallurgy, and hot isostatic pressing Qualification pathways for novel manufacturing techniques for nuclear licensing Standardization and certification challenges for fusion materials and next-gen reactor materials Supply chain integration and economics of manufacturing and deploying new nuclear materials at scale Applications Across Nuclear Energy Platforms Structural and functional materials for Generation IV reactors, SMRs (Small Modular Reactors), and fusion reactors (e.g., ITER/DEMO and more rapidly commercializable, compact designs) Materials for reactor internals, cladding, first walls, divertors, and heat exchangers Design and testing of materials for accident-tolerant fuel systems and post-Fukushima safety standards Invited Speakers To be confirmed The symposium focuses on the scientific and engineering challenges in the development, characterization, testing, and deployment of nuclear materials capable of withstanding the extreme environments to be found in next-generation nuclear energy systems such as fission, fusion, and small modular reactors. The discussion spans across the full lifecycle of materials development – from discovery and testing to qualification, upscaling, deployment, and degradation management – emphasizing both fundamental understanding and technological implementation. The symposium will focus on the following themes with potential topics in bullet form: Materials Longevity and Degradation Mechanisms Fundamental studies and predictive models of long-term material performance under nuclear-relevant operating conditions Time-dependent degradation mechanisms, including creep, swelling, fatigue, and phase instability, with a special focus on those with incubation periods and non-linear progression Development of materials with enhanced resistance to radiation-induced embrittlement and corrosion simultaneously Aging effects in reactor structural materials (e.g., austenitic steels, ferritic-martensitic steels, ODS steels, SiC/SiC composites, tungsten alloys) and how to mitigate or ameliorate them Coupled Effects in Materials for Nuclear Systems Interactions of irradiation, high temperature, and corrosive environments (e.g., liquid metals, molten salts, high-pressure steam, supercritical CO₂) Synergistic effects on microstructural evolution, defect dynamics, and mechanical/thermal property degradation, especially during irradiation In situ studies of simultaneous corrosion and irradiation in candidate structural, cladding, and functional nuclear materials Impact of tritium permeation, helium embrittlement, and transmutation product accumulation on material performance Accelerated Nuclear Experimentation and Advanced Characterization Ion beam and surrogate particle irradiation for high-throughput screening of radiation tolerance, including intermediate energy proton irradiation (IEPI) Novel in situ testing under irradiation using synchrotron, neutron, and ion beam facilities Non-destructive evaluation (NDE) and real-time diagnostic tools (e.g., thermography, acoustic emission, electron microscopy, or material property measurement under irradiation) Development of miniaturized specimen testing protocols for reduced activation materials and radiation-shielded environments Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) and Data-Driven Approaches Multi-scale modeling of defect formation, transport, and accumulation Machine learning and AI tools for predicting material degradation and optimizing alloy design Digital twins and multiscale simulation frameworks for reactor materials life-cycle assessment Scale-Up, Qualification, and Manufacturing Advanced manufacturing routes for nuclear-grade materials, including additive manufacturing (AM), powder metallurgy, and hot isostatic pressing Qualification pathways for novel manufacturing techniques for nuclear licensing Standardization and certification challenges for fusion materials and next-gen reactor materials Supply chain integration and economics of manufacturing and deploying new nuclear materials at scale Applications Across Nuclear Energy Platforms Structural and functional materials for Generation IV reactors, SMRs (Small Modular Reactors), and fusion reactors (e.g., ITER/DEMO and more rapidly commercializable, compact designs) Materials for reactor internals, cladding, first walls, divertors, and heat exchangers Design and testing of materials for accident-tolerant fuel systems and post-Fukushima safety standards To be confirmed
F3) Australian MRS & MRS Singapore Joint Symposium on Advanced Materials Technologies
Chair(s): Ajayan Vinu (University of Newcastle, Australia), Lan Fu (Australian National University, Australia), Jun Min Xue (NUS) Co-Chair(s): Peng Cao (University of Auckland, New Zealand), R Murugavel (IIT Bombay, India) Symposium Scope/Topics Nanostructured materials have emerged as a central pillar of modern materials science, enabling transformative advances across energy, environmental sustainability, electronics, photonics, quantum and healthcare technologies. The precise design and engineering of nanostructures including nanoporous materials, low-dimensional systems, and hierarchical architectures, allow unprecedented control over surface chemistry, mechanical, electronic and optical properties, and catalytic performance. These capabilities are critical for addressing global challenges such as sustainable energy production, carbon capture, water purification, and next-generation electronic, optical and biomedical technologies. Australia has developed a vibrant and globally competitive materials research ecosystem, with strong capabilities spanning advanced nanomaterials synthesis, characterization, theory, and device integration. At the same time, the Asia-Pacific region—particularly through platforms such as the ICMAT, has become a major hub for frontier research in nanoscience and emerging materials. Strengthening collaborations between Australian researchers and the broader international materials community is therefore essential to accelerate innovation and translate fundamental discoveries into technological impact. This symposium, organised by the Australian Materials Research Society (AMRS) and in collaboration with Singapore Materials Research Society (S-MRS) within the ICMAT framework, aims to provide a dedicated platform to showcase leading research from Australia while fostering strong scientific connections with researchers across Asia and the global materials research community. The symposium will highlight recent breakthroughs in the design, synthesis, characterization, and applications of advanced nanostructures and promote interdisciplinary collaborations among scientists working at the interface of chemistry, physics, materials science, and engineering. By bringing together leading researchers, emerging investigators, and industry partners, the symposium will facilitate knowledge exchange, build strategic partnerships, and strengthen the international visibility of Australian materials research within the broader ICMAT community. It will also provide opportunities for collaborative initiatives, joint research programs, and student exchanges between Australian institutions and leading research centers worldwide. Topics Likely to be Covered Synthesis, fabrication and characterisation of advanced nanostructures and functional materials Nanoporous materials and porous frameworks for catalysis, adsorption, and separations Nanomaterials and structures for clean energy generation, storage and environmental sustainability Nanomaterials and structures for electronic, photonic and optoelectronic applications Biomaterials and nanostructures for healthcare, diagnostics, and biomedical applications Invited Speakers To be confirmed Nanostructured materials have emerged as a central pillar of modern materials science, enabling transformative advances across energy, environmental sustainability, electronics, photonics, quantum and healthcare technologies. The precise design and engineering of nanostructures including nanoporous materials, low-dimensional systems, and hierarchical architectures, allow unprecedented control over surface chemistry, mechanical, electronic and optical properties, and catalytic performance. These capabilities are critical for addressing global challenges such as sustainable energy production, carbon capture, water purification, and next-generation electronic, optical and biomedical technologies. Australia has developed a vibrant and globally competitive materials research ecosystem, with strong capabilities spanning advanced nanomaterials synthesis, characterization, theory, and device integration. At the same time, the Asia-Pacific region—particularly through platforms such as the ICMAT, has become a major hub for frontier research in nanoscience and emerging materials. Strengthening collaborations between Australian researchers and the broader international materials community is therefore essential to accelerate innovation and translate fundamental discoveries into technological impact. This symposium, organised by the Australian Materials Research Society (AMRS) and in collaboration with Singapore Materials Research Society (S-MRS) within the ICMAT framework, aims to provide a dedicated platform to showcase leading research from Australia while fostering strong scientific connections with researchers across Asia and the global materials research community. The symposium will highlight recent breakthroughs in the design, synthesis, characterization, and applications of advanced nanostructures and promote interdisciplinary collaborations among scientists working at the interface of chemistry, physics, materials science, and engineering. By bringing together leading researchers, emerging investigators, and industry partners, the symposium will facilitate knowledge exchange, build strategic partnerships, and strengthen the international visibility of Australian materials research within the broader ICMAT community. It will also provide opportunities for collaborative initiatives, joint research programs, and student exchanges between Australian institutions and leading research centers worldwide. Topics Likely to be Covered Synthesis, fabrication and characterisation of advanced nanostructures and functional materials Nanoporous materials and porous frameworks for catalysis, adsorption, and separations Nanomaterials and structures for clean energy generation, storage and environmental sustainability Nanomaterials and structures for electronic, photonic and optoelectronic applications Biomaterials and nanostructures for healthcare, diagnostics, and biomedical applications To be confirmed
