TSSP NatSci 2023 projects
The main component of the summer program is an active participation in the selected research projects offered by the staff members of the Nicolaus Copernicus University from Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry, and Faculty of Earth Sciences and Spatial Management, please see the topics and their descriptions below. Interested students are welcome to contact possible advisors for more details concerning the foreseen projects and discuss the dates that the project could be undertaken.
Comparison of the antioxidative properties of the polymeric films containing different essential oils
Packaging materials, in particular the ones that come into contact with food, have to meet a significant number of requirements. One of the most important is the extension of the products’ shelf life. The addition of antioxidants, including phenolic compounds, is one of the prevailing methods employed for preserving food quality.
For this reason, different essential oils such as clove oil, tea tree oil and rosemary oil will be introduced into polymeric films.
Establishing the antioxidative properties of the obtained materials using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity will allow to determine if the proposed materials have the potential to be an effective and safe packaging prolonging the shelf life of products.
Research objectives: The main objectives of the project include:
- formation of new polymeric films based on polylactide with an addition of essential oils,
- study the antioxidative properties of the obtained materials by means of DPPH method,
- comparison the antioxidative properties of particular active additives
- Indication of the most promising essential oil as the ingredient leading to the extension of the shelf life of products.
Research tasks:
Task 1. Discussing the scope of the project. Formation of films based on biodegradable polymers and the indicated essential oils using solvent casting method.
Task 2. Determining the antioxidative properties of the obtained materials using the DPPH method.
Task 3. Analysis and discussion of the obtained results - formulation of scientifically viable conclusions, compilation of results in the form of a presentation.
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Novel hybrid systems based on 3D graphene and activated carbons from natural sources
Potential candidate will synthesize and then characterize a new hybrid carbon-based materials.
Student will be acquainted with a knowledge related to the carbon materials especially graphene and activated carbons derived from natural sources.
Project includes also the study of different carbons materials and influence different parameters on their structure (surface area, pore size, pore volume, elemental content). Final material could be used in electrochemistry (metal-air batteries, photovoltaic cells or in Biology). Biocompatibility test will be performed by dr J. Szczepanek from CMIT NCU.
The use of carbons in a new generation of power sources proves that this direction opens up new research perspectives and creates new values in science.
Research objectives: The aim of the project is to prepare novel hybrid systems based on 3D graphene and activated carbons from natural sources (Chlorella Vulgaris, melamine and cellulose) dedicated for metal-air batteries or photovoltaic cells. Additionally, to emphasize the innovative of the project, biocompatibility studies will be carried out.
Research tasks:
- synthesis of porous 3D graphene from graphite
- synthesis of activated carbons from natural sources
- synthesis of hybrid systems
- full characterization of obtained materials (SEM, SEM/EDX, TEM, elemental analysis, AFM, Raman spectroscopy, standard electrochemistry tests – CV, LSV, charge/discharge, biocompatibility tests).
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The amazing world of carbon materials – the synthesis of various carbon allotropes
Carbon is one of the most abundant elements at the Earth. Different forms of carbon have been known since ancient times, but nowadays the importance of carbon materials in our lives is constantly increasing and difficult to overstate. The existence of numerous allotropic forms of carbon in the solid state gives rise to a wide variety of physical properties.
Student will be acquainted with a knowledge related to the carbon allotropes (structurally different forms of the same element) as carbon nanotubes, fullerenes or graphene. Candidate will synthesize and fully characterize different allotropes of carbon. During the project Student will gain new knowledge about nanomaterials and methods of obtaining them.
Research objectives: The aim of the project is to prepare of various carbon allotropes (carbon nanotubes, fullerenes and graphene). Graphene will be synthesized from graphite by different exfoliation methods. Carbon nanotubes will be prepared from melamine foam by CVD method.
Moreover, obtained materials will be fully characterized to further potential applications.
Research tasks:
- synthesis of various carbon allotropes (carbon nanotubes, graphene or fullerenes)
- getting to know new research method and their modifications
- full characterization of obtained materials (SEM, SEM/EDX, TEM, elemental analysis, AFM, Raman spectroscopy, standard electrochemistry tests – CV, LSV, charge/discharge)
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Influence of different essential oils on the water vapor permeability of polylactide based packaging materials
Behind the mechanical and antibacterial properties of the packaging, water vapor permeability belongs to the most important features of packaging materials.
Modifications resulting from the introduction of different compounds into the polymeric matrix can significantly influence the properties of packaging. Essential oils belong to active compounds that can be incorporated into the polymeric matrix.
Considering that essential oils are completely different in composition, they can affect the water vapor transmission rate (WVPR) of the obtained materials in different ways. For this reason, materials containing different essential oils such as clove oil, tea tree oil, and rosemary oil will be studied. The analysis of WVPR will allow to determine the resistance of particular polymeric films to water vapor.
Research objectives: The main objectives of the project include:
- obtaining new polymeric films based on polylactide with an addition of essential oils,
- study of the water vapor transmission rate,
- comparison of the resistance of particular polymeric films containing active additives to water vapor
- Indication of the material characterized with the lowest value of water vapor transmission rate
Research tasks:
Task 1. Discussing the scope of the project. Obtaining films based on biodegradable polymers and the indicated essential oils using the solvent casting method.
Task 2. Determining the water vapor transmission rate
Task 3. Analysis and discussion of the obtained results; formulation of scientifically viable conclusions, compilation of results in the form of a presentation.
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Hybrid catalysts for effective production of green hydrogen
Green hydrogen has emerged as a promising energy source for solving the challenges of climate transition, as it can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by replacing traditional fuels in various sectors. Due to the great interest in obtaining hydrogen by electrochemical water splitting, the search for efficient electrocatalysts with low overpotential and good stability began. Therefore, developing highly efficient, cost-saving electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) without noble metals (Pt, RuO2, IrO2) electrochemically active in aqueous electrolytes is a significant challenge in the energy field and the main aim of this project.
Research objectives: The main aim of the Project’s research work is the development of innovative strategies for the synthesis of materials with high catalyst activity. These can potentially be used, among others, as catalyst materials in water splitting. This Project will have an impact on integrative research in a diverse range of disciplines, including materials science, chemistry, and electrochemistry.
Research tasks:
- Preparation of hybrid materials containing electrochemically active phase.
- To evaluate the HER and OER catalytic activities, a three-electrode cell will be tested by using catalysts as working electrode. Linear sweep voltammetry will performed in KOH or H2SO4. The catalytic reaction kinetics and mechanisms of HER and OER electrolysis will be examined by the Tafel slope. Long-term stability will another important concern for assessing an HER and OER catalyst in practical application.
| Supervisor: | dr Anna Ilnicka (ailnicka[at]chem.umk.pl) |
| | Faculty of Chemistry |
| Internship period: | 17.07 - 12.08.2023 |
| Scientific disciplines: | Chemical Sciences |
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Multi-layered polymer inclusion membranes for the removal of toxic ions
The polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) are of the great interest because of their improved stability and durability. PIMs are prepared by slow evaporation of a volatile organic solvent from a solution containing: a polymer, carrier, and plasticizer. PIMs can be applied for selective transport of various chemical species depending on a specific carrier added to a membrane during its preparation. The transport properties of PIMs can be controlled by the membrane composition as well as by using multi-layer membranes. Their properties are not yet fully recognized and will be investigated during the project.
Research objectives: The efficiency of the membrane system depends mainly on the composition of the membrane. Therefore, research goals are focused on preparation new multi-layer PIMs and their applications in removal of toxic Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn ions from tap water.
Research tasks:
- Synthesis of new multi-layer PIMs composed of various carriers.
- Determination of transport properties (efficiency and selectivity) in new multi-layer PIMs.
- Application of the most effective system for removal of toxic ions from tap water.
| Supervisor: | dr hab. Piotr Szczepański (piotrs[at]chem.umk.pl) |
| | Faculty of Chemistry |
| Internship period: | 10.07 - 4.08.2023 |
| Scientific disciplines: | Chemical Sciences |
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Emulsification process with membranes possessing asymmetric wettability
The stability of the material is one of the essential features in science and engineering applications. In the frame of the project, the procedure of emulsion (water-oil or oil-water) stabilization with different types of emulsifiers (different hydrophilic–lipophilic balance - HLB factor) will be developed. The emulsions will be formulated with premix membrane emulsification process. The emulsion formation will be done under various conditions of pressure and membrane materials (synthesized in our lab – membranes with asymmetric wettability). The produced emulations will be systematically studied with the application of instrumental analyses. The enhancement of emulsion stability is foreseen. Finally, the correction between the process conditions and quality of the emulsion will be performed.
Research objectives: The aim of the work is to prepare the emulsions via premix membrane emulsification and characterized them. The characterization of the emulsions with various analytical methods is foreseen. Finally, the correlation between the experimental condition of membrane emulsification, emulsion stability and properties of membranes will be done.
Research tasks:
- Emulsion formulation under different conditions (pressure, type of membrane, type of stabilizer);
- Emulsion characterization (particle size, zeta potential, stability);
- Assessment of relationship between experimental protocol of premix membrane emulsification (type of stabilizer, emulsion composition, type of membrane) and stability, quality of the emulsions.
| Supervisor: | dr hab. Joanna Kujawa, prof. UMK (joanna.kujawa[at]umk.pl) |
| | Faculty of Chemistry |
| Internship period: | 17.07 - 12.08.2023 |
| Scientific disciplines: | Chemical Sciences |
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Tailored protein-coated magnetic nanoparticles as carriers for doxorubicin
Selective delivery of drugs to cancer-transformed cells is one of the most important goals of modern oncology medicine. The solution is to design and obtain carriers from biocompatible materials. Examples of promising systems are magnetite-based nanoparticles coated with proteins naturally occurring in living organisms. Obtaining a protein-coated magnetite-based drug carrier should ensure good drug distribution without forming aggregates and protein corona in body fluids. Considering this, the proposed project will aim to obtain magnetite nanoparticles coated with a protein found in blood and then deposit the clinically used doxorubicin on their surface to form a novel drug carrier system.
Research objectives: The research objective of the proposed project is to design and optimize the synthesis of Hgb-coated magnetic nanoparticles and then explore the possibility of using them as effective carriers for doxorubicin.
Research tasks: Research tasks under the project will include:
- synthesis of protein-coated magnetite nanoparticles,
- characterization of the obtained nanomaterials (structure, particle size),
- deposition of doxorubicin on the obtained carrier,
- characterization of the carrier-drug system (structure, particle size, aggregation capacity),
- study of the kinetics of drug release from the carrier.
| Supervisor: | dr Marta Ziegler-Borowska (martaz[at]chem.umk.pl) |
| | Faculty of Chemistry |
| Internship period: | 17.07 - 12.08.2023 |
| Scientific disciplines: | Chemical Sciences |
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The film forming properties of selected gelatin based mixtures and effect of crosslinking on mechanical properties of cast films
The aim of this project is to provide with preliminary data for further investigation toward gelatin based biodegradable packaging materials. The ongoing research towards biopolymer packaging materials is extremely important in context of growing pollution caused by post-consumer packaging. The concept of biodegradable packaging is thought to deliver efficient solution of the plastic waste issues. In the frame of wider research concerning biobased food packaging materials Physicochemistry of Polymers Research Group is conducting a study concerning new generation of gelatin based films. Announced project is a part of preliminary studies in this field.
Research objectives: The aims of this project is focused on the preliminary tests of film forming abilities of a series of mixtures containing gelatin as supporting matrix. The film formation properties especially in dip coating mode will be investigated in context of varying viscosity of film-forming solution
Research tasks: The project include:
- preparation of aqueous mixtures of film-forming solutions based on gelatin including chosen additives.
- determination of mixtures’ viscosity and density.
- casting of polymer films on glass substrates using dip coating technique.
- determination of the film thickness
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Soils as tourism attractions
The aim of the project is to assess the awareness of residents and tourists about soil resources and to evaluate the perception of soils as a potential tourist attraction. The research work will consist of several elements: 1. queries of scientific literature on soil reserves; 2. a PAPi survey conducted among the inhabitants of Toruń and tourists visiting it; 3. Quantitative (statistical) and qualitative analysis of the collected material. The obtained results will make it possible to assess whether and how it is possible to increase the awareness of societies about the role of soils in the environment and society, and to answer the question of whether it is possible to use soils in tourism and to present proposals for activities that may enable the implementation of such tourist projects.
Research objectives:
- to assess the awareness of residents and tourists about soil resources;
- to evaluate the perception of soils as a potential tourist attraction;
- to answer the question of whether it is possible to use soils in tourism and to present proposals for activities that may enable the implementation of such concept.
Research tasks:
- literature query
- conducting surveys
- collecting illustrative material
- compilation of results – analysis and synthesis
- preparation of the study results
| Supervisor: | dr hab. Przemysław Charzyński, prof. UMK (pecha[at]umk.pl) |
| | Faculty of Earth Sciences and Spatial Management |
| Internship period: | 17.07 - 12.08.2023 |
| Scientific disciplines: | Earth and Environmental Sciences |
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Assessment of quantitative and qualitative resources of small water reservoirs on the example of the city of Toruń in the light of climate change
The aim of the project is to acquire the ability to conduct environmental analyzes and studies of small water reservoirs. The research will be carried out on selected water reservoirs (up to 10) located in different parts of Toruń. The research includes field work (water intake and measurements of selected physicochemical parameters of water) and laboratory analyzes of water samples. Water quality analyzes will be performed in the laboratory with the support of employees of the Faculty of Earth Sciences and Spatial Management. The obtained results will make it possible to assess the trophic state of the reservoirs, which is crucial for determining the suitability of water resources and their use for various purposes. The proposed solutions can be used to compare genetically similar reservoirs under city pressure in other climatic zones.
Research objectives:
- determination of the capacity of water reservoirs and their changes as a result of changing meteorological conditions
- determination of physicochemical parameters of water in water reservoirs
Research tasks:
- conducting soundings of water reservoirs and drawing up bathymetric plans
- field measurements: water temperature, pH and conductivity in water reservoirs
- water sampling from water reservoirs for the needs of physicochemical analyzes
- conducting physicochemical analyzes of water in the laboratory
- compilation of results
| Supervisor: | dr Katarzyna Kubiak-Wójcicka (kubiak[at]umk.pl) |
| | Faculty of Earth Sciences and Spatial Management |
| Internship period: | 17.07 - 12.08.2023 |
| Scientific disciplines: | Earth and Environmental Sciences |
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Revitalization of riverside areas and their impact on the development of tourism
The aim of the internship is to develop the scientific skills of conducting research in the field of revitalization of riverside areas and their impact on the development of tourism, with particular emphasis on water tourism. The research will be carried out in Toruń and Bydgoszcz. The starting point for the research is the assessment of the needs of water tourism and the state of development of waterways. The collected data will be analyzed and synthesized. The obtained results will allow to assess the effects of revitalization and compare them with the state of development of other riverside areas in Poland and in the world.
Research objectives:
- determining the impact of revitalization of riverside areas on the development of water tourism
- showing various solutions adapted to environmental conditions
- conducting research among tourists and learning their opinions on the revitalized areas
Research tasks:
- collection of thematic literature
- conducting surveys and field interviews
- collection of illustrative materials
- compilation of results
- preparation of a synthetic study
| Supervisor: | dr Katarzyna Kubiak-Wójcicka (kubiak[at]umk.pl) |
| | Faculty of Earth Sciences and Spatial Management |
| Internship period: | 17.07 - 12.08.2023 |
| Scientific disciplines: | Earth and Environmental Sciences |
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Spatial variability of the pH values in arable layer of morainic soils
The human-induced erosion leads to formation of wide range of different types of soils - truncated in the upper parts of the slopes and accumulative - at the foot of slopes and in the depressions. These changes affect the differentiation of various features of soil surface horizons - humus content, texture, color. In many places, there is also erosional exposure of materials rich in calcium carbonate on the soil surface. The aim of the project is to assess the spatial variability of pH values in arable layer of agricultural soils within hummocky and undulating moraine plateaus mainly in the context of changes caused by slope processes.
Research objectives:
- estimation of spatial variability of pH values in plowed horizons of soils within moraine uplands;
- creating maps of spatial variability of the examined feature;
- an attempt to estimate the impact of erosion on the variability of pH in the studied arable soils;
Research tasks:
- field research on 3 research plots - sampling of soil material from arable horizons (about 150 samples);
- laboratory tests - determination of pH and calcium carbonate content;
- creating maps of spatial variability of pH values;
- interpretation of the obtained results in the context of erosion transformations and their use in agrotechnical treatments.
| Supervisor: | dr hab. Marcin Świtoniak, prof. UMK (swit[at]umk.pl) |
| | Faculty of Earth Sciences and Spatial Management |
| Internship period: | 17.07 - 12.08.2023 |
| Scientific disciplines: | Earth and Environmental Sciences |
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Desalination by using pervaporation process
The access to the potable water and waste water treatment are two great concerns of the 21st century. Membrane techniques like reverse osmosis, nanofiltration, electrodialysis or forward osmosis are widely used for the water and waste water treatment. However, new methods are needed. Pervaporation (PV) is a membrane technique used mainly for the separation of liquid mixtures. However, the newest potential application of pervaporation is related with application for desalination, i.e. recovery of the potable water from sea water and brackish water. In pervaporation various types of membranes can be used, both polymeric and ceramic. The project deals with the potential application of chosen membrane materials for the desalination by pervaporation. The influence of the type of the membrane material (hydrophobic mixed matrix membranes) and feed composition will be evaluated.
Research objectives:
- Evaluation of the applicability of vacuum pervaporation for the desalination of sea water and brackish water, comparing to RO and FO.
- Influence of fillers on the membrane morphology and separation properties in pervaporation desalination
Research tasks:
- Literature overview related to pervaporation; getting familiar with pervaporation setup.
- Preparation and characterization of hydrophobic PV membranes (mixed matrix membranes containing various fillers)
- Evaluation of chosen parameters (feed composition, feed temperature) on the `process effectiveness)
- Investigation of the presence of liquid organic component (e.g. methyl acetate, ethanol) on the transport properties of membranes
| Supervisor: | prof. dr hab. Wojciech Kujawski (kujawski[at]chem.umk.pl) |
| | Faculty of Chemistry |
| Internship period: | 17.07 - 12.08.2023 |
| Scientific disciplines: | Chemical Sciences |
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Analysis of light pollution in Toruń
The project concerns the study of the pollution of the night sky with artificial light in selected housing estates of Toruń. The measurement will be made by a manual SQM recorder and a drone with an automatic recorder. A housing estate with traditional lighting and modern, LED, will be selected for research. Based on the collected spatial data and analyzes performed, the monthly variability of light pollution of the night sky will be determined. In the future, the project may be continued as a diploma thesis comparing selected areas.
Research objectives:
- The main research goal of the project is to determine the spatial variability of the night sky of the artificial light in selected Toruń housing estates depending on the type of street lamps installed and other factors.
Research tasks:
- The project will be implemented using geographical information systems (GIS) and SQM recorder.
- The main research tasks are regular night measurements of the brightness of the night sky, analysis of collected data and determining spatial variability in Toruń.
| Supervisor: | dr hab. Mieczysław Kunz, prof. UMK (met[at]umk.pl) |
| | Faculty of Earth Sciences and Spatial Management |
| Internship period: | 17.07 - 12.08.2023 |
| Scientific disciplines: | Earth and Environmental Sciences |
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