Engineering Functional Materials for Real-World Applications: Biosensing, Gas Sensing, and Energy Storage
Talita MAZON
CTI – Renato Archer Information Technology Center (CTI), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
Bio
Dr. Talita Mazon is a Senior Researcher at the Renato Archer Information Technology Center (CTI) in Brazil, with a background in chemistry (B.S. – 1994, M.S. – 1997, and Ph.D. – 2001) and expertise in materials science and nanotechnology. Her research focuses on the design and synthesis of advanced functional materials, including nanostructured metal oxides, ceramic systems, and carbon-based composites. She has extensive experience in developing electrochemical biosensors for the detection of clinically relevant biomarkers, as well as in integrating these materials into portable, low-cost diagnostic platforms. She has authored over 45 scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals. Her work also encompasses energy storage and environmental applications, including nanomaterials for gas sensors, supercapacitors, and photocatalytic systems for pollutant degradation. Prof. Mazon has coordinated and participated in several national and international research projects and collaborates closely with academic and industrial partners. Her research aims to bridge the gap between fundamental materials development and real-world technological applications, contributing to innovation in health, environmental solutions, and energy.
Abstract
This talk will present recent advances in the design and engineering of functional materials for real-world applications, with a focus on biosensing, gas sensing, and energy storage. The work highlights the development of nanostructured materials—including metal oxides, carbon-based composites, and hybrid nanoarchitectures—tailored to achieve enhanced electrical, catalytic, and surface properties.
In the field of biosensing, emphasis will be placed on integrating these materials into electrochemical platforms for the detection of clinically relevant biomarkers, enabling sensitive, low-cost, and portable diagnostic solutions. Strategies such as surface engineering, nanoheterojunction design, and the use of catalytic nanomaterials will be discussed as key approaches to improving sensitivity, selectivity, and stability.
For gas-sensing applications, the presentation will explore the use of semiconductor metal oxides and nanostructured heterojunctions for the detection of gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Particular attention will be given to the role of morphology control and surface functionalization, as well as to strategies for enhancing selectivity and response under real operating conditions.
In the field of energy storage, this presentation will address recent advances in the development of biochar-based nanostructured materials for supercapacitors, focusing on improving charge storage capacity, cycling stability, and energy density through controlled composition and architecture.
Overall, the talk will explore the challenges and opportunities involved in translating functional materials from laboratory-scale research to practical applications, with a focus on scalability, sustainability, and the development of cost-effective technologies that have a real societal impact.
Contact: Mireille Richard-Plouet (PCM)
