Bachelor internship - Leuven | Just now
Biocompatible nanomaterials with electrocatalytic properties are widely used to modify electrode surfaces. Among these materials, metal nanoparticles are particularly common in the development of amperometric sensors. Platinum black (Pt black) is especially valuable due to its excellent catalytic properties and high surface area, making it well suited for applications in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and food safety.
This
internship will focus on developing a robust and reliable electroplating
process of black Platina that is compatible with wafer-scale manufacturing.
Establishing such a process could significantly reduce both the production time
and costs associated with manufacturing these sensors.
Objective:
To develop an optimized Pt black electroplating process specifically for biosensor applications by fine-tuning electrolyte composition, current density, temperature, and deposition time. Taking existing base recipe and adapt it to process on wafer level.
Scope of Work:
1. Literature Review:
- Review existing Pt black electroplating techniques and their applications in biosensors.
- Identify key factors affecting Pt black coatings for biosensors.
- Review existing Pt black process to adapt on wafer scale
2. Experimental Design:
- Design experiments to study the effects of electroplating parameters.
- Plan substrate preparation and electrolytic solution formulation.
3. Electroplating Process Development:
- Conduct experiments varying key parameters.
- Interpret SEM and XRD data and adapt the process accordingly.
4. Characterization and Analysis:
- Characterize Pt black coatings.
- Analyze data to determine optimal electroplating conditions.
- Potentially compare made electrode with existing commercially available electrode
Required Skills and Knowledge:
- Basic understanding of electrochemistry and materials science
- Familiarity with lab techniques and safety protocols
- Analytical skills for data interpretation and process optimization
- Interest in biosensor technology
- Fluency in English
Type of internship: Bachelor internship
Duration: 1 semester
Required educational background: Chemistry/Chemical Engineering
Supervising scientist(s): For further information or for application, please contact Alexey Podkovskiy (Alexey.Podkovskiy@imec.be) and Clement Leruth (Clement.Leruth@imec.be)
The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-331. Mention this reference code in your application.
Only for self-supporting students.
Applications should include the following information: