Laboratory of Nanostructures

Team Leader

PhD Eng. Urszula Szałaj
22 876 0431
u.szalaj@labnano.pl, urszula.szalaj@unipress.waw.pl

Research topics

The Laboratory of Nanostructures specializes in the synthesis and applications of nanomaterials - powders composed of particles smaller than 100 nanometers. At this scale, materials begin to behave differently than in their conventional form. Reducing particle size reveals new, size-dependent physical, chemical, and biological properties that are not present in macroscopic materials.

Our mission is to translate these unique properties into practical applications in industry and medicine.

We employ high-pressure techniques, high-power microwave solvothermal synthesis, and ultrasound-based technologies. These methods enable precise control over nanoparticle size and also the formation of functional coatings on a wide range of materials - also at room temperature. We develop our own synthesis equipment, ensuring technological independence and a competitive advantage confirmed by patents.

The Laboratory’s most significant achievement is the development of nanomaterials for medical applications, especially hydroxyapatite nanoparticle technologies - hydroxyapatite being the primary mineral component of natural bone tissue. These nanoparticles are produced in proprietary reactors and under Clean Room conditions. The material supports bone regeneration after complex fractures and oncological surgeries. It is currently successfully used in veterinary medicine for the treatment of horses, dogs, cats, and exotic animals.

Nanohydroxyapatite also serves as a bioactive coating for orthopedic implants, enhancing implant-bone integration.

We also develop:

nanoparticles with strong antibacterial and antifungal properties (including applications in dentistry),
nanomaterials with advanced optical properties suitable for sensor applications.

Materials intended for medical applications must be produced reproducibly and under strictly controlled conditions. Therefore, we have implemented a quality management system compliant with ISO 13485 for medical devices, as well as ISO/IEC 17025 for testing and analytical methods.

The combination of advanced synthesis technologies and rigorous quality standards results in strong interest from industrial partners.

The Laboratory operates in the New Technologies Building (98 Prymasa Tysiąclecia Avenue) and at the Institute’s main headquarters (29/37 Sokołowska Street) in Warsaw.

The Laboratory team consists of a highly qualified, interdisciplinary scientific staff conducting research with strong implementation potential.

Laboratory website