Center for Relativistic Laser Science

Our research team focuses its research on the synthesis of nanoparticles and respective applications. In particular, we have intensively studied the unlimited application potential for nanoparticles in the medical and energy sectors.

Because nanoparticles are one billionth of a meter in length, they show unique properties different to bulk materials: Nanotechnology attracts a great deal of worldwide attention as a core technology of the future. Nanoparticles represent unique electrical, optical, magnetic, and chemical properties different from those of bulk states, atoms, or molecules. These properties are determined by factors, including particle size, shape, and structure. In addition, the use of these unique properties presents opportunities to apply nanoparticles in numerous fields, including medicine, life sciences, the energy sector, and information technology. Therefore, what is required above all is to secure a technology that expands development of the synthesis process of uniform nanocrystals, and respective mass production processes.

Our research team's study strives to illuminate the fundamental principles of the formation of nanoparticles and their nature by synthesizing nanoparticles using chemical methods, and by elucidating the chemical and physical properties of nanoparticles. Furthermore, we aim to explore the formation mechanism of nanoparticles. In addition, we have tried to study alignment and modification of synthesized nanoparticles and manufactured nanostructures with multiple functions, and apply what we have learned to medical fields (e.g., medical diagnosis and treatment) and energy fields (e.g., electrochemical materials and catalysts).

Our nanoparticle research center, located in the basic science research institute, operates for the following purposes:

Its first purpose is to grow and become a world-leading laboratory that manufactures nanoparticles and applies them to medical and energy-related research. Secondly, the center heads nanotechnology efforts in the Republic of Korea, and contributes to training world-class researchers in the nanoparticle field (South Korea is, after all, emerging as a world-leading nation in nanotechnology.) Third, the center performs a crucial role in nanoparticle research for the rest of Asia as well.