Magnesium Nanoparticles: Earth-Abundant and Biocompatible Thermoplasmonics (MagNanoThermo)

Light is a form of energy that can be harnessed in various ways. Sunlight can be harnessed by solar cells, for instance, turning light into electricity, which can then power a wide range of devices. This is, however, a rather inefficient process and light can be used differently for various applications. One efficient way to utilize light is through photothermal materials, which convert light directly into heat. This approach is particularly significant because heat is a major consumer of fossil fuels, especially in industrial processes that rely heavily on fossil fuel energy sources.

The project targets the development of a new class of biocompatible photothermal material based on the eighth most abundant element in earth’s crust, magnesium. Magnesium, like gold and silver, is extraordinarily good at absorbing light because its interaction is different than that of simple “black” materials. Indeed, these nanoparticles act like antenna for light and consequently absorb more light than their physical footprint. The project, therefore, aims to develop ways to make large quantities of magnesium nanostructures, suitable for industrial-scale production and demonstrate their ability to efficiently produce heat from light. The ultimate goal of the project is to position itself to engage with industrial partners for further development and commercialization of these innovative green technologies.