Utilization of by-products and waste for the synthesis of new materials for energy and environmental applications - Faculty of Materials Science and Technology

This project explores innovative ways to transform industrial waste and by-products from the Moravian-Silesian region into valuable materials for cleaner energy and environmental protection. By reusing residues from steel production, coke manufacturing, food packaging, and biomass, the research aims to develop new materials that can both reduce pollution and support hydrogen-based technologies. One research line focuses on synthesizing magnetically recoverable photocatalysts capable of breaking down harmful pollutants in water and air, with potential applications in self-cleaning surfaces. The second line targets advanced materials for safe hydrogen storage, based on the preparation of MAX phases from by-products and their derived MXenes. By combining waste valorization, advanced material synthesis, and practical performance testing, the project contributes to circular economy strategies and supports the transition toward more sustainable and low-carbon industrial processes.

This project is co-funded by the European Union.

Dr. Facundo Barraque

I am an Argentine researcher who graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry in 2015 and earned my Ph.D. in Materials Science in 2020 at the National University of La Plata, Argentina. During my Ph.D., I had the opportunity to complete a research internship at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava in 2017, which was my first visit to the city. After completing my doctorate, I moved to Philadelphia, where I taught Chemistry at Thomas Jefferson University and worked as a Research Assistant in Dr. Prof. Sheu’s biochemistry laboratory. I have authored more than ten publications in high-impact scientific journals, and my current H-index is 8. In 2025, I was fortunate to return to VSB-TUO through funding from the Moravian-Silesian Region. I am currently working alongside highly experienced researchers, benefiting from an excellent scientific environment and advanced research facilities. During weekends, I enjoy spending time in nature and practicing outdoor sports. I found Ostrava, and the Czech Republic as a whole, to be a beautiful place to live, offering close access to the mountains and the chance to experience living history in every town and village.