CLEAR-RN aims to establish fundamental principles for controlling defects and structural flexibility in nanozeolites by elucidating the mechanisms governing their growth kinetics. Rather than viewing defects solely as imperfections, the project will exploit them as a means of activating materials and tuning their properties. This knowledge will enable the rational design and synthesis of new nanozeolites and nanoporous materials with unprecedented structures and functionalities. A key innovation of CLEAR-RN is a bottom-up synthesis strategy based on the controlled formation of zeolite building units in colloidal suspensions, rather than the post-synthesis modification of conventional micron-sized zeolites. This approach will provide enhanced control over crystal size, defects, pore accessibility, and framework flexibility. The resulting materials are expected to offer faster molecular diffusion, improved catalytic and separation kinetics, more efficient regeneration, and enhanced cycling stability, thereby reducing the energy demand and environmental footprint of industrial processes.

Zeolites are key materials in adsorption, molecular separation, and shape-selective catalysis, with major applications in petroleum refining, chemical processing, gas separation, water purification, and pollution control. CLEAR-RN will expand their technological potential by establishing structure–defect–property relationships that enable the targeted development of next-generation nanozeolites. The project will contribute to the European energy and climate transition by providing advanced materials for more energy-efficient processes, including gas separation, CO₂ capture and conversion, catalysis, environmental remediation, and renewable-energy technologies. Beyond these applications, the fundamental knowledge generated on crystal growth, defects, and flexibility will benefit materials science, chemistry, nanotechnology, energy, and environmental research.

Ultimately, CLEAR-RN will establish a new approach to nanozeolite design in which defects and flexibility are controlled as functional parameters, enabling innovative materials and technologies that contribute to greater energy efficiency, reduced CO₂ emissions, and Europe's transition towards a sustainable, low-carbon economy.

With Dr. Svetlana Mintova, Head of CLEAR-RN, the CLEAR-RN Center is a multidisciplinary research hub advancing knowledge on zeolites and porous materials to drive innovation and scientific discovery. Through its Researcher Academy, and workshops, CLEAR-RN fosters advanced training, inspires the next generation of scientists, and strengthens collaboration between academia, industry, and society.

Role: Deputy Head