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The Institute of Condensed Matter and Nanociences (IMCN) of the Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) focuses on condensed matter and nanoscience from the atomic and molecular levels to real materials

This research concerns the synthesis, design, manipulation, implementation and modeling of (bio)molecules, (bio)surfaces and solid materials. The latter are characterized or simulated by means of advanced techniques, which are also sometimes developed as an inherent part of the research. The obtained compounds, materials or devices are then investigated for their functions, properties or reactivity, leading up to applications. 

Thematics in the frame of this general methodology, and resulting research projects conducted in the institute, lead to the study of molecules, materials, surfaces and interfaces, with a strong connotation of nanosciences, nanotechnologies and nanomaterials.

Latest news

2025-07-02
Bimodal Spin Switch Emerging from Hybridized 2D MoS2/Ferromagnet Interfaces
This study demonstrates a novel integration of 2D semiconductors with ferromagnets using pulsed laser deposition, revealing hybridization-driven spin manipulation. Vertical spin valves with MoS2 and Ni(111) show exotic bimodal spin signals and strong deviations from Jullière’s model. These results highlight the « 2D spinterfaces » key role in unlocking 2D materials’ potential for advanced spintronic applications and novel spin functionalities.
2025-06-24
Ferroelectric Patterning at the Nanoscale for the 600th Anniversary
For this demonstration, a 50 nm-thick film of the ferroelectric polymer polyvinylidene fluoride–trifluoroethylene (PVDF-TrFE) was used to engrave the 600th anniversary logo at the microscale. Jean Spièce, a researcher in the BSMA division, programmed a scanning probe microscopy tool to locally “draw” arbitrary shapes by precisely modifying the material’s polarization.