Developing an excellent research group and the journey of bringing nanomaterials into practical life
In modern materials science, nanoparticles with ultra-small sizes can exhibit outstanding properties such as antibacterial activity, catalysis, adsorption and biological interaction. However, the challenge lies not only in creating new materials but also in bridging research with practical societal needs.
Based on this orientation, Prof. Dr Tran Dai Lam and colleagues at the Institute of Materials Science implemented the project “Development of a level I excellent research group on the fabrication of nanomaterials based on graphene, certain metal oxides and biopolymers for applications in biology, agriculture and the environment” (NCXS01.01/22-24). The project aims to establish an interdisciplinary research platform meeting international standards, not only to develop new nanomaterials but also to demonstrate their application effectiveness and train specialised research personnel.
Prof. Dr. Tran Dai Lam
According to Prof. Dr Tran Dai Lam, the group adopted an interdisciplinary approach combining theoretical and experimental research, in which nanomaterials are viewed as tools to address practical problems. The research focuses on developing hybrid nanomaterial systems, two-dimensional structured materials and nanocomposites combining biopolymers with domestic natural resources. This direction aims to tackle practical issues such as antibacterial activity, agricultural preservation, wastewater treatment and environmentally friendly material development, while also enhancing international publications and human resource training.
From nanomaterials to practical solutions for daily life
One of the project’s notable achievements is mastering the synthesis processes of various advanced nanomaterial systems, particularly hybrid silver nanoparticles combined with metal oxides such as ZnO-Ag, TiO₂-Ag, ZrO₂-Ag and CeO₂-Ag. These materials have been produced at the scale of hundreds of grams, sufficient for practical application trials.
The hybrid nano systems have small particle sizes (30–50 nm), relatively uniform distribution and large surface areas. The use of plant-derived reducing agents in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles helps minimise toxic chemicals and aligns with the trend of developing “green” materials.
Results of morphological and structural analysis of silver nanoparticles synthesised by a green chemistry method using Cleistocalyx operculatus bud extract as a reducing agent
Based on this platform, hybrid silver nanoparticles have been incorporated into paint and polymer coating systems, creating multifunctional coatings with antibacterial and self-cleaning properties. Experiments show nearly complete inhibition of E. coli bacteria, along with effective decomposition of organic contaminants under sunlight or UV radiation. These results open up prospects for applications in hospitals, schools and public spaces.
Images of control coating samples and samples containing 2% ZnO-Ag hybrid nanoparticles sprayed with artificial contaminants after 14 accelerated UV test cycles (8 hours UV exposure per cycle at 60 °C).
The research team has also achieved results in developing two-dimensional nanomaterials such as graphene oxide (GO) and MXene. When integrated into highly conductive composite electrodes, these materials enable efficient removal of salts, heavy metals and dissolved ions from water with low energy consumption. The electrodes can be regenerated over multiple cycles, helping to reduce operational costs and improve the sustainability of water treatment systems. This technology shows potential for application in small- and medium-scale desalination systems, particularly in coastal areas, islands or regions affected by saltwater intrusion.
Graphene and MXene materials can be used in fabricating anode electrodes for Li-ion batteries and CDI/HCDI desalination devices
In addition, the team has developed various biopolymer-based nanocomposites using natural materials, which can be fabricated into porous beads, membranes or filtration materials to remove heavy metals, dyes and microorganisms from water. The use of natural materials and agricultural by-products helps reduce costs and aligns with the circular economy approach.
The group has also developed a fruit preservation film-forming formulation based on chitosan combined with a rutin–cyclodextrin nano-complex, enhancing antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Experiments show that the coating can extend fruit shelf life by more than 60% at room temperature, making it suitable for preserving and transporting fresh agricultural products.
Some research results and evaluations of the preservation capability of chitosan-based nanocomposite films containing rutin–cyclodextrin nano-complex
During the implementation process, the team published 15 papers in international journals indexed in SCIE (IF ≥ 2 or Q2 and above). The evaluation council assessed the project as highly interdisciplinary and application-oriented, rating it as excellent (A).
In the context of increasing challenges related to the environment, food safety and sustainable development, these research results not only hold scientific value but also open up practical application directions for nanomaterials in Vietnam. They also provide a foundation for further development, technology transfer and the creation of positive impacts on social life in the coming period.
Translated by Phuong Huyen
Link to Vietnamese version
