• This research, still at the experimental stage, is based on a new formulation of electrochromic material: MoWOx, a mixed molybdenum-tungsten oxide
• This advance makes it possible to envisage "dual-band" functionality, i.e. selective and independent modulation of incoming light and heat flows
• The results have been published in the journals Advanced Optical Materials and ACS Applied Optical Materials

Scientists from the University of Liège (ULiège) and the University of Namur (UNamur) have developed an innovative electrochromic material capable of independently regulating light and heat in buildings. This breakthrough, based on a mixed molybdenum-tungsten oxide (MoWOx), paves the way for even more efficient and energy-saving smart windows.

Electrochromic windows are smart glazings capable of modulating their coloration, or more generally their state of transparency or opacity, when an external electric current is applied to it. This property makes it possible to control the intensity of solar radiation entering a building, without the need for blinds or curtains. This type of window is already manufactured industrially and used technologically in some buildings, but current products do not allow separate control of visible light (VIS) and near-infrared radiation (NIR), respectively linked to incident brightness and heat.

Researchers at ULiège and UNamur, thanks to support from the Fonds de la Recherche Scientifique (FNRS), have thus developed a new formulation of electrochromic material, entitled MoWOx, based on a "dual-band" functionality enabling selective and independent modulation of incoming light and heat fluxes.

Through this new formulation, the scientific teams have demonstrated the occurrence of an innovative optical mode, known as "warm", for the first time for this type of oxide. In this mode, the glass remains transparent to infrared radiation, allowing heat to pass through, while only partially filtering out visible light. This feature is particularly interesting for cold climates and winter periods, where maximizing solar heat gain while reducing solar glare can significantly reduce building energy consumption, particularly in terms of heating and artificial lighting.

This "dual-band" functionality is based on the incorporation of nanostructured plasmonic compounds into the smart glass. A plasmonic material is one whose free electrons can oscillate collectively under the effect of light. It can then selectively absorb, reflect or scatter light, depending on its composition and structure. And it is precisely in the application of these plasmonic properties of MoWOx to the case of smart glazing that this innovation lies.

On this basis, the composition and morphology of plasmonic nanostructures directly influence the optical selectivity of filtering, enabling glazing to be tailored more precisely to users' needs.

Future intelligent glazing incorporating these new components could ultimately revolutionize energy management in buildings. In a context where the energy transition remains a top priority, these innovative windows will help to achieve carbon neutrality targets and build near-zero energy buildings.

Florian Gillissen, researcher at the University of Liège and first author of the paper published in Advanced Optical Materials:"Thanks to this technology, we can adjust the transmission of light and heat through windows in real time, which represents a giant step forward for the energy optimization of buildings."

Professor Michaël Lobet, FNRS Qualified Researcher and first author of the paper published in ACS Applied Optical Materials: "Theoretical and numerical modeling was carried out at UNamur in Professor Luc Henrard's team, while material synthesis and characterization was carried out under the direction of Professor Rudi Cloots and Dr. Anthony Maho from the University of Liège. It is these synergies between theoretical modeling and fabrication that have enabled the characterization of these MoWOx materials."

The aim of this FNRS-funded research project (PDR) is to deepen knowledge of the complex crystalline phases of simple salts. The project aims to strengthen international research activities, which began in 2016 and led to the publication of the first results in Nature in 2021. Read the article online...

FK phases have been known since 1959 as a large family of metal alloys, but the study demonstrated that simple pharmaceutical molecules can crystallize with similar complexity, something not previously known.

With this new project, the researchers aim to go one step further, using mainly solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques on powders and single crystals. This study will be carried out in collaboration with other researchers at the NISM Institute (Nikolay Tumanov, Carmela Aprile and Johan Wouters), as well as collaborators working in other countries, such as Riccardo Montis (University of Urbino, Italy) and Simon Coles (Director of the National Crystallography Service (NCS), University of Southampton, UK).

The research project (PDR) "NPN cofactor synthesis and roles" is at the interface between fundamental biochemistry and enzymology. It is based on the recent discovery, by a team at UCLouvain, of a new cofactor, named NPN, with a highly original structure. It is a dinucleotide bearing a nickel complex. It is involved in important enzymatic reactions, but little is known about its reactivity, biosynthesis and mechanism of action. Moreover, it is present in 20% of bacterial genomes and 50% of Archaea (archaeobacteria) genomes, but only a tiny fraction of the enzymes employing it have been characterized.

The research project is based on the complementary expertise of Benoit Desguin (UCLouvain, biochemistry) and Stéphane Vincent (bio-organic chemistry). The main aim of the project is to understand the role and mechanism of this cofactor through biochemical, structural and kinetic studies. Analogues of the NPN cofactor will be synthesized by the UNamur team: they will be designed to elucidate the mode of interaction and reaction of the NPN cofactor with the enzymes employing it.

This research project (PDR) is a co-promotion of Professors Tom Leyssens (UCLouvain) and Johan Wouters (UNamur). It aims to bring the process of uprooting by crystallization into the era of "green chemistry".

Uprooting is a term used in chemistry to describe the process of separating a racemic mixture into its two enantiomers, i.e. the chiral (left and right) forms of a molecule. In the pharmaceutical industry, 50% of marketed drug compounds contain a chiral center, which is essential to their functioning. When one enantiomer has the desired pharmacological effect, the other may be inactive or have undesirable effects. For this reason, new drugs are often marketed as enantiopure compounds (i.e. free of their impure "chiral twin").

The most common way of obtaining chiral drugs still involves the formation of a racemic mixture. This can then be produced by chemical or physical separation techniques, with a yield loss of 50%. If the compound in question is "racemizable", the unwanted enantiomer can technically be converted back into a racemic mixture, resulting in a theoretical yield of 100%. Over the past decade, various crystallization-based uprooting methodologies have been developed. However, all these methods require the use of large quantities of solvent, as they are crystallization processes.

This research aims to take these processes to the next level, not only by making them more efficient (less time-consuming), but also by bringing them into the realm of "green chemistry". To this end, the researchers are proposing mechanochemical variants for conglomerates and racemic compounds.

These processes will be

• Inherently "green", since the unwanted enantiomer is transformed into the desired enantiomer;
• Enabled by mechanochemistry, which eliminates the need for solvent, making them "greener" than solution-based methods.
• The "greenest" possible, thanks to their efficiency (very fast timescale and low energy consumption).

This funding will enable the acquisition of high-throughput isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) equipment, unique in the Wallonia-Brussels Federation. This is a high-resolution, non-destructive method enabling complete characterization of the chemical details of an interaction in solution.

His acquisition will enable UNamur chemists, but also their collaborators, to analyze any bond, in a vast field of application, extending from biochemistry to supramolecular chemistry.

"ONL molecular switches "in all their states": from solutions to functionalized surfaces and solids."

This PhD thesis within the Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory (Department of Chemistry) and the Multiscale Modeling through High-Performance Computing (HPC-MM) Cluster of the NISM Institute aims to develop innovative multiscale computational methodologies to study and optimize multistate and multifunctional molecular switches, key components of logic devices and new generations of data storage technologies.

In addition to variations in linear optical responses, it is advantageous to consider changes in nonlinear optical responses (NLOs), which enable high-resolution data readout while avoiding their destruction. The main objective is to predict and interpret the ONL responses of these molecular switches in different matter environments, namely in solution, grafted onto surfaces and in the solid state.

In addition, particular attention will be paid to modeling defects and orientational disorder within materials to better represent real-world conditions. These predictive methods will be validated experimentally through close collaborations with synthesis and characterization teams.

Research at NISM revolves around a variety of research topics in organic chemistry, physical chemistry, (nano)-materials chemistry, surface science, optics and photonics, solid-state physics, both from a theoretical and experimental point of view.

Researchers' expertise is recognized in the synthesis and functionalization of molecular systems and innovative materials, from 0 to 3 dimensions.

This article was produced for the "Eureka" section of Omalius magazine #36, March 2025.

Capable of generating ion beams consisting of any stable element with energies of up to 16 Mega electron-Volt (MeV), the particle gas pedal enables the analysis (IBA) and modification (IBMM) of thin films of many materials. Stimulated by the critical need for new functional materials, the development of these techniques has accelerated in the 21st century. They are essential in many areas of fundamental research, and are also used in applied research, through industrial partnerships.

Tijani Tabarrant's role is essential to ensure the smooth running of this complex equipment. He is responsible for its maintenance to ensure continuity in research. At the same time, he makes a significant contribution to the research by designing and developing various vacuum chambers, which are crucial to our experiments. To carry out these projects, he works closely with the mechanical workshop, whose expertise and resources are indispensable.

The strength of IBMM (Ion Beam Modification of Materials) is its ability to modify the electronic, optical, mechanical or magnetic properties of various materials in a controlled way. This is known as "functionalizing materials".

IBA (Ion Beam Analysis) is a family of non-invasive, highly versatile analysis techniques for studying the chemical composition of materials. It has played a leading role for decades in nuclear astrophysics, materials science, life sciences and even heritage and archaeological sciences.

In microelectronics, ion implantation, essential for doping semiconductors, is a key stage in the manufacture of electronic chips. The IBA makes it possible to analyze the presence of these dopants, as well as that of hydrogen, an element that can influence the lifespan of electronic components.

In nuclear energy, ion beam irradiation makes it possible to simulate the effects of radiative damage on materials used for nuclear fuel cladding or radioactive waste storage. In this way, their long-term durability can be assessed.

In the aerospace field, ion beam irradiation is used to test the resistance of space materials to cosmic radiation, improving the design of satellites and spacecraft.

For hydrogen production and storage, the IBA helps design anti-diffusion coatings. Hydrogen is a tiny atom that diffuses easily through materials. Hydrogen storage is a key issue for the energy transition.

In everyday life, telephone screens, windscreens and even windows benefit from surface treatments that modulate their opacity, as well as their anti-scratch, anti-reflective or anti-smudge properties. These effects are achieved through the synthesis and optimization of thin surface layers, in collaboration with the glass industry. The IBA enables the characterization of these thin films, which helps in the development of new functionalities.

One of ALTAïS's terminal stations is dedicated to studying the response of cells to radiation (protons, helium, carbon).

Thus, researchers can carry out studies on:

• the generation of radioresistant cancer cells and the development of strategies to re-sensitize them,
• the involvement of mitochondria in resistance to radiotherapy;
• the influence of membrane lipid composition on the response to radiotherapy treatment

They are studying the FLASH effect - very high dose rate irradiation - on a worm C. elegans. The FLASH effect not only maintains tumor control but also spares healthy tissue, which is of key importance in tumor treatment.

They are also reprogramming immune system cells with gold nanoparticles and ionizing radiation (X-ray or proton).

At UNamur's Department of Physics, Professor Guy Demortier, was one of the pioneers in the use of IBAs to characterize ancient objects or fossils. These analyses help to determine the manufacturing methods and provenance of the materials used to make historical artefacts, as is the case at the AGLAE laboratory, based in the Louvre museum, which carries out this type of analysis on a daily basis. Analysis of the coloration of natural geological objects (e.g. speleothems) also provides its share of information about the evolution of the climate and environment of a particular geological area.

With the recent arrival of Professor Julien Colaux, a new impetus has been gained and is part of a broader perspective.

The ALTAïS gas pedal is part of the state-of-the-art equipment of the SIAM (Synthesis, Irradiation and Analysis of Materials) technology platform.

Researchers from the NISM Institutes, NARILIS and ILEE use it daily to push back the boundaries of the unknown. The Department also hosts practical work activities by physics and biology students.

Building on their long experience in functional (nano)materials, microelectronics, photovoltaics, batteries, life sciences and heritage sciences, the multidisciplinary teams of researchers are key players in the understanding of matter in the fundamental sense, physical interactions on the atomic scale and the development of new technologies applied to today's global challenges.

Throughout the world, there has been a significant gender gap in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) for years. Although women have made immense progress in terms of their participation in higher education, they remain under-represented in these scientific categories.

To promote the empowerment of women and girls in STEM and raise awareness of the need to include women in science and technology, in 2015 the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed February 11 "International Day for Women and Girls in Science".

February 13, 2025 | 5th edition of Women & Girls in science @ UNamur

This annual event aims to promote women's and girls' access to, and full participation in, science and technology. It serves as a reminder of the important role of women in the scientific community and is an excellent opportunity to encourage girls and young women to participate in scientific developments.

At the Laboratoire d'Analyses par Réactions Nucléaires de l'UNamur (LARN) we have a particle gas pedal which, among other things, produces protons and alpha particles. These particles can be used to irradiate cancer cell cultures to destroy their genetic material and prevent them from proliferating. In clinical practice, X-rays are usually used, as they are easier to produce, less bulky and less costly. But in terms of effectiveness, we hope to achieve better results with charged particles, such as the one used here. This is the basis of proton therapy.

What is your involvement in the European university alliance UNIVERSEH focused on the theme of space?

Ionizing radiation is also encountered in space. Astronauts on the International Space Station are exposed to doses far more intense than those received on the Earth's surface. This radiation has effects on living organisms.

In this context, I'm working on the RISE (Rotifer in Space) project, launched in 2013 with Boris Hespeels and Karin Van Doninck, in partnership with the Unité de Recherche en Biologie Environnementale et évolutive (URBE) at UNamur, ULB and SCK-CEN. This project focuses on rotifers, organisms that are extremely resistant to various conditions: cold, temperature variations, desiccation, a very high radiation dosage... Our aim is to understand how they would react in an environment such as the ISS and whether they develop particular strategies to protect their genomic integrity, which could be used to protect humans in space.

Do you think the fact that you're a woman influences your career as a scientist?

First and foremost, whether male or female, scientists are rather special animals: they eat, sleep and think science all the time. But then again, you have to have the opportunity to do so. When you're a woman, in today's society, that can be more complicated, not least because of the many clichés that persist.

I remember one Whitsun Monday when I was emptying my washing machine when I got a message from a colleague "I'm reading a great review!"And there I thought "Great, me, I'm cleaning underpants"We don't all live the same reality. There are those who have a family, a house, with all the mental load that goes with it. And then there are those who don't have children (yet) and have less to think about outside their job. Sometimes I tell myself that I have to continually catch up with people who are much more competitive, but who also have much more time to devote to research.

What do you think could facilitate and encourage the careers of women scientists?

I teach all first-year science students and I notice that there are a lot of girls in the life science streams like biology or veterinary medicine, but far fewer in mathematics or physics. It's quite unbalanced. So how can we encourage more women to take up these disciplines? I think it starts very early.

Interest in science is built up from childhood, through education and the image of the world passed on to them by their families. It's not at the age of 18 that you have to ask the question. We need to show them the horizon of possibilities, and make sure they understand that science is neither "for girls" nor "for boys".

The right time to awaken this curiosity is when children start to reason, to ask themselves questions: why does the sun always rise in the same place? What happens to an ice cube when it melts? Why does a cold glass fog up when you blow on it? That's when you can accompany them, explain things to them and encourage them to look for answers. We need to give children a taste for explaining and questioning the world.

What message would you like to pass on to a woman who might be hesitant to go into science?

I think the message is valid for all students, whether boys or girls: why do you want to do this or that study? What's your motivation? If it's because your parents advised you to, that's not a good reason. If it's because you're strong in a subject so you're going to study it, that might not be a good justification either. What counts above all is desire. The desire to understand, to discover, to question the world around us.

Do you think the fact that you're a woman influences your career as a scientist?

I think being a woman can influence a scientific career because of the stereotypes that still exist, but it should reinforce our desire to change mentalities and inspire other women.

What do you think could facilitate and encourage the careers of women scientists?

We should give greater visibility to the contributions of women in the scientific world, encourage their input and value their often underestimated historical role. I also think it's important to combat gender bias and create a more inclusive working environment.

Do you think that the fact that you're a woman influences your career as a scientist?

I think that all facets of my identity influence and will influence my career: my gender, my age, my nationality, etc., whether in the way I approach my career or the way I'm viewed by my colleagues.

What do you think could facilitate and encourage the careers of women scientists?

All career projects should be encouraged and supported, regardless of gender. Everyone cites Marie Curie as an example, but that's just the tree that hides the forest. Let's talk about Verra Rubin, Margaret Burbidge, Henrietta Leavitt and all their colleagues. Women in science are not a novelty or a rarity, but they are forgotten and erased names.

What message would you like to pass on to a woman who might be hesitating to go into astronomy?

Why are you hesitating? This career is gripping, exciting, testing, overwhelming and rewarding. You have to be motivated and ready to give it your all. Your gender doesn't affect your skills, so if you're tempted, GO FOR IT!

An inspiring message to share?

I like to share Fred Hoyle's quote: "You must understand that, cosmically speaking, the room you are now sitting in is made of the wrong stuff. You, yourself, are odd. You are a rarity, a cosmic collector's piece." To study astronomy, or cosmology, is to confront immensity and sometimes wonder where we fit in. I find it quite comforting to remember that our uniqueness makes us a little treasure.

We are also led to practice experimentation and discover scientific research.

In 2024 I joined, with a small group of students, the UNIVERSEH alliance as a member of the Local Student Club of Namur which is also registered as a new kot-à-projet on the university campus. We were able to take part in the organization of the General Meeting last November as part of an activity aimed at European students. I also took part in the Spring School organized in 2024 by UNamur on the site of the Euro Space Center and am preparing for a trip to Sweden in early March as part of the Arctic Winter School.

Do you think the fact that you're a woman influences your career as a scientist?

I've always been encouraged to do what I liked, so societal ideas categorizing fields as "masculine" or "feminine" didn't really influence my choice of study. Lack of support and self-confidence can be a hindrance when entering a world that doesn't seem to be our own. Admittedly, you may have to battle with some people, but you can make your mark, like anyone else, as a woman.

What do you think would facilitate and encourage a woman to study science and, ultimately, a career in science?

You only need to look at the history of science to understand that every human being is capable of great things if they are allowed to. Nowadays, female figures who have left their mark on science are increasingly recognized, which is a good thing and gives the future generation of scientists a diversity to identify with. They, like them, have paved the way for us to have the freedom to choose what we want to do with our lives.

I find it unfortunate that it still takes days like these to emphasize the fact that we are all equal. I just think that everyone should be pushed to pursue what they're drawn to, and valued according to their abilities.

What message would you like to give to a woman who might be hesitant about taking up astronomy studies?

When you find your path, you have to follow it. I'd tell her not to hesitate, and that if it turns out in the end that the path doesn't suit her, this is in no way a sign of inferiority or inability.

An inspiring message to share?

The message I'd like to share is a short phrase that I've been trying to keep in mind ever since it was passed on to me: Don't try, just do it.

"Research has always fascinated me. I studied biology with the aim of studying plant biotechnology, but ended up in a human cell biology laboratory. I've never regretted that choice. Over 40 years later, I'm still fascinated by the complexity of cellular behavior, and in particular by the plasticity of cancer cells. Teaching scientific methodology to students and mentoring young researchers is something I particularly enjoy. "

UNamur is a member of the European alliance European Space University for Earth and Humanity (UNIVERSEH), which focuses on the theme of space. This is a real recognition of UNamur's expertise in the field of space, and a gateway to new international collaborations in both teaching and research, around a field that is driving employment and socio-economic development.