Where is our main focus?
In BMF-Science, we focused on the application of semiconductor nanomaterials in energy, environment, and health. Under the leadership of Professor Ramin Yousefi, we specialize in designing next-generation nanostructures for real-world impact—from photocatalysis and gas sensing to biosensing and hydrogen generation.
Currently, we are concentrating on four primary areas: developing gas sensors using metal oxides and 2D nanomaterials; employing photocatalysis to treat wastewater from hospitals and industries; splitting water to generate green hydrogen; and creating biosensing technologies with nanomaterials. For additional information on each section, please click on the corresponding option in the picture.
Also, our current available facilities and capabilities include:
- Nanomaterial Synthesis: Metal oxide/selenide production via CVD, hydrothermal, and solvothermal methods
- Characterization Suite: TEM, SEM, XRD, XPS, UV-Vis, PL, Raman
- Prototype Fabrication: Photocatalytic reactors, microfluidic biosensors, portable gas detectors
- Performance Testing: Photocatalytic degradation, water splitting under simulated sunlight, field-ready sensor calibration
- Modeling & AI: Machine-learning tools for material behavior prediction and sensor response analysis
Wastewater Treatment
Photocatalysis for Hospital and Industrial Wastewater Treatment
ClickBiosensing Technology
Biosensing Technologies Using Nanomaterials
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1.
Gas Sensors Based on Metal Oxides and 2D Nanomaterials
We develop high-performance gas sensors using metal oxides such as ZnO and WOₓ, enhanced with two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials like reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄).
These hybrid structures deliver:
- Exceptional sensitivity and selectivity for NO₂, VOCs, and NH₃
- Rapid detection and recovery cycles
- Strong stability and scalability for industrial and mobile platforms
Featured Work:
In partnership with a Chinese automotive company, we developed an rGO/ZnO-based NO₂ sensor.
2.
Photocatalysis for Hospital and Industrial Wastewater Treatment
Our group engineers advanced photocatalysts for visible-light-driven degradation of hospital, pharmaceutical, and chemical wastewater.
We focus on S-scheme heterostructures, incorporating:
- 2D materials like rGO and g-C₃N₄
- Metal oxides such as TiO₂, ZnO, and BiVO₄
- Metal selenide compounds, including ZnSe, SnSe, and CuₓSeᵧ, which offer narrow bandgaps, high charge mobility, and enhanced light absorption.
These systems have demonstrated excellent performance in degrading complex organic pollutants and antibiotic-resistant bacteria under indoor lighting and natural sunlight.
Noteworthy feature:
Collaborative projects with universities in China and Malaysia have contributed significantly to the validation of these photocatalysts in field-scale applications.
3.
Photocatalytic Water Splitting for Green Hydrogen Production
A key pillar of our research is solar-driven water splitting for clean hydrogen production, using visible-light-active photocatalysts based on advanced semiconductor systems.
- We develop and study:
Metal selenide photocatalysts such as ZnSe, SnSe, and CuₓSeᵧ, chosen for their favorable bandgap alignment, redox potential, and visible-light responsiveness - 2D/3D nanocomposites with rGO, g-C₃N₄, and metal oxides
- Co-catalyst-enhanced heterostructures to facilitate charge separation and hydrogen evolution
These materials are evaluated for photocurrent density, hydrogen evolution rate, and photostability, with the goal of scalable deployment for green energy systems.
Notice:
We collaborate with institutions in Brazil, Chile, Singapore, Malaysia, China, Qatar, Australia, Italy, Portugal, Greece, Turkey, and Iran to test and improve these systems across different climates and operating conditions.
4.
Biosensing Technologies Using Nanomaterials
Our biosensor development leverages nanomaterial properties to create highly sensitive, rapid-response, and portable detection platforms.
The key elements include:
- Electrochemical and photoluminescent detection mechanisms
- Integration of rGO, metal oxide nanoparticles, and selenide semiconductors
- Lab-on-chip systems for disease marker detection, glucose monitoring, and environmental diagnostics
These platforms are ideal for point-of-care diagnostics, with emphasis on affordability and portability in resource-limited settings.
Within the context of our approach, we adhere to a number of major visions and impacts. Therefore, BMF-Science Group is dedicated to the following:
- Transformative nanomaterials for environmental remediation
- Sustainable hydrogen energy systems
- Advanced biosensing for global health challenges
Furthermore, the work that we do is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, specifically:
- SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 13 – Climate Action
- SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being
Unleash the Power of Teamwork with Effective Leadership.
Professor Ramin Yousefi, a leading expert in nanostructured semiconductors, guides the center with a vision rooted in scientific rigor and global collaboration. His leadership supports impactful, ethically-driven research and fosters the training of the next generation of innovators.
