Download Faculty of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry

Faculty of
Materials Science
and Applied
Chemistry
Contents
6
Kārlis Agris Gross, Dr.sc.ing.,
Lead Researcher (IIC, 2016)
Facts and Figures
Gundars Mežinskis, Dr.habil.sc.ing.,
Professor (ISM, 2015)
10
Institute of Applied Chemistry (IAC)
Jānis Zicāns, Dr.sc.ing.,
Lead. Researcher (IPM, 2013)
14
Līga Bērziņa-Cimdiņa, Dr.sc.ing.,
Professor (IGCE, 2012)
Institute of Design Technologies (IDT)
Valdis Kampars, Dr.habil.chem.,
Professor (IAC, 2009)
18
Institute of General Chemical Engineering
(IGCE)
22
Institute of Inorganic Chemistry (IIC)
Biomaterials Research Laboratory
Māris Knite, Dr.habil.phys.,
Professor (ITP, 2007)
The honorary title of
RTU Young Scientist
of the Year
26
Kristīne Šalma-Ancāne, Dr.sc.ing.,
(IGCE, 2016)
Institute of Polymer Materials (IPM)
Dagnija Loča, Dr.sc.ing., Lead.
Researcher (IGCE, 2015)
31
Institute of Silicate Materials (ISM)
34
Institute of Technical Physics (ITP)
38
Institute of Technology of Organic
Chemistry (ITOC)
46
Study programmes of the faculty
2
The honorary title of
RTU Scientist of the
Year
Andris Šutka, Dr.sc.ing., Lead.
Researcher (ISM, 2014)
Jānis Ločs, Dr.sc.ing., Assoc.
Professor (IGCT, 2013)
Remo Merijs-Meri, Dr.sc.ing., Assoc.
Professor (IPM, 2011)
Māris Turks, Dr.chem., Assoc.
Professor (ITOC, 2010)
Facts and figures
Academic and research work have been
closely interconnected since the foundation
of the Faculty. The Faculty of Materials
Science and Applied Chemistry has
considered research excellence a priority
right from the start and attracted such
renowned scientists as Wilhelm Ostwald,
Paul Walden, Lidija Liepiņa and Gustavs
Vanags. The structure and research
directions of the Faculty have changed
in the course of time, but the Faculty has
been able to maintain high standards in
academic work and research.
Today the Faculty of
Materials Science and
Applied Chemistry has the
highest research potential,
external funding, developed
research infrastructure and
is ranked among the best
at Riga Technical University
(RTU).
In total, the Faculty received
28.65 % of core funding
allocated to RTU in 2015.
Main research
areas
Synthesis of multifunctional nanoparticles,
nanofibers and catalysts, development
of nanocomposites and nanocoatings
production technologies from polymer
and inorganic nanomaterials, products
application
Synthesis of components and materials for
electronics, photonics, optoelectronics and
information technologies, smart materials
Innovative biomaterials, materials/
biomaterials technology
Synthesis of topical organic substances,
structure research, technology solutions for
the needs of pharmaceutical, medical and
bioorganic chemistry
Control of interfacial and boundary
processes for design of micro-, submicroand nano- scale heterogeneous polymer and
inorganic composites to obtain materials
with a target-oriented functionality
Institutes of the faculty –
among 42 institutes of RTU
in 2014 and 2015
Science capacity*, %
2014
2015
2014
2015
6.27
6.12
2
3
Institute of Applied Chemistry
3.97
2.47
6
18
Institute of Design Technology
3.50
2.21
10
19
Institute of Silicate Materials
3.20
3.94
14
7
Institute of Polymer Materials
3.38
3.79
11
9
Institute of Technology of Organic
Chemistry
3.17
4.51
15
6
Institute of Technical Physics
3.95
2.81
7
13
Institute of Biomaterials and
Biotechnology
2.66
Institute of General Chemical
Engineering with Rūdolfs Cimdiņš Riga
Biomaterials Innovations and
Development Centre
Biomaterials Research Laboratory
Development, research and quality
assurance of alternative, renewable
and mixed fuels, lubricants and their
components
Rank in RTU/year
18
0.99
31
*Science capacity – an index characterizing the number of publications and patents,
attracted external funding and effectiveness of defended doctoral theses.
Modification of natural and chemical fibres
and optimisation their properties, smart
textiles and clothing
Synthesis, modification, investigation and
use of inorganic materials and composites
for special objectives and the economy
Ecological solutions in chemistry, chemical
engineering, materials science and allied
branches
Conversion of biomass, renewable and
mixed fuels
4
5
Institutes of the faculty
in national research
centres (NRC)
Funding
NRC of Technologies of Acquisition
and Sustainable Use of Energy and
Environmental Resources
€ 4.97
mill.
Leading institute – Riga Technical University (RTU)
for purchase
of research
equipment during
4 years
Faculty institutes: ISM, IAC
Partners: University of Latvia (UL), Agency of UL Institute
of Biology and Institute of Physical Energetics
NRC of Pharmacy and Biomedicine
Leading institute – Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis
(LIOS)
Faculty institute: ITOC
€
200,000
40
units or complexes
of purchased
research equipment.
for renovation
of premises (475 m2)
TOTAL FUNDING
€ 5.17 mill.
Partners: LIOS, UL, AUL Latvian Biomedical Research and
Study Centre
NRC of Nanostructured and
Multifunctional Materials, Structures
and Technologies
Leading institute – AUL Institute of Solid State Physics
(ISSP)
Faculty institutes: IBB, IAC, IP, ITP, IDT, IGCE
Partners: AUL ISSP, UL, AUL Institute of Physics, AUL
Institute of Polymer Mechanics, ARTU Institute of
Inorganic Chemistry (IIC)
NRC of Information, Communication
and Signal Processing Technology
Leading institute – VUC Engineering Institute «Ventspils
International Radio Astronomy Centre»
Faculty institute: IAC
Partners: UL, RTU, UL Institute of Electronics and
Computer Science, AUL Institute of Mathematics and
Computer Science
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7
Research in 2015
Contributions to
the 10 Top scientific
achievments in the
field of practical
applications in
Latvia
New catalytic processes for conversion of
biomass in fuels (IAC, 2015).
Synthesis and study of organic glasses
with original structure for application in
photonics equipment (IAC in collaboration
with AUL ISSP, 2013).
Development of new catalytic methods for
the production of glycerine acid and lactic
acid by means of oxidising glycerol with
air or molecular oxygen. Development of
a new method for the synthesis of more
active and more selective catalysts (IAC in
collaboration with ARTU IIC, 2012).
Development of a super-elastic sensor
prototype (composite of elastomers and
electroconducting nanoparticles) applicable
in wide-area detection of pressure and
impacts (ITP, PI in collaboration with JSC
Baltijas Gumijas Fabrika, 2011).
Technology for manufacturing novel porous
high-temperature oxide ceramics. The
intrinsic characteristics of these oxide
ceramics allow filtration of aggressive
and hot liquids and the use as thermal
insulation at high temperatures (ISM,
2009).
Technology for production of a novel heat
insulating building material from layered
silicates and by-products of biodiesel
production (ISM, 2009).
179 (65.22) - total number of elected researchers
(in full-time equivalent or FTE)
77 (36.73) leading researchers
79 (24.32) researchers
23 (4,17) research assistants
Organized
activities and
publications
Awarding of Paul Walden Prize (biannually, in
two nominations)
97 from them Doctors of Sciences
108 research projects with attracted external
funding
€ 1 576 791 - investments attracted from
external sources
€ 24 170 - annual external funding per one FTE
researcher
€ 570 819 - core (maintenance) funding
RTU International Scientific Conference,
section Materials Science and Applied
Chemistry (annually, in October)
€ 113 059 - attracted financing from research
Baltic Polymer Symposium (once every three
years, by IPM)
272 - total number of scientific publications
Baltic Conference on Silicate Materials
(biannually, by ISM)
RTU Students Scientific Conference
(annually, in April)
Scientific Journal of Riga Technical University:
Materials Science and Applied Chemistry (2
journals per year, issued 32 journals)
Materials Science (1 journal per year, issued 11
journals)
performance (second pillar)
1,52 (4,17) scientific publications per
one researcher (FTE)
174 scientific publications in databases
WoS and Scopus
0.97 (2,67) publications in databases WoS and Scopus
per one researcher (FTE)
7 awarded patents (Latvia)
7 patent applications (Latvia)
4 PhD study programmes
4 Promotion councils
144 000 - Grants for Doctoral students (second pillar),
EUR
83 PhD students
17 defended Doctoral theses
68% success rate (number of defended Doctoral theses
to number of enrolled students)
8
9
The Institute of Applied
Chemistry (IAC) at Riga
Technical University and all
laboratories of the institute
involved in the study process,
including the Laboratory
of Fuel Quality Control
and Investigation, were
established in 2006. The
Department of Chemistry
was founded in 2002 by
merging the Department
of General Chemistry, the
Department of Organic
Chemistry, the Department of
Inorganic Chemistry and the
Department of Analytical and
Physical Chemistry.
Director of the Institute of Applied Chemistry
Valdis Kampars, Dr.habil.chem.
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +371 29230958
www.mlkf.rtu.lv
10
Also several new scientific investigations
have been succesfully developed: production
of fuel from biomass conversion processes,
synthesis of organic glasses, dendronised
chromophores and luminophores, synthesis
of lanthanide complexes, functionalised
graphite and graphene oxides and the
synthesis and practical use of mezoporous
catalysts for biomass conversion processes.
Institute takes place in research supported
by two national programmes.
The Institute of Applied Chemistry is
responsible for the study programme
«Applied Chemistry» at Bachelor, Master
and Doctoral level and provides courses
within these study programmes. Academic
staff of the Institute of Applied Chemistry
also deliver courses within study
programmes «Chemical Technology» and
«Materials Science». Courses «General
Chemistry» and «Chemical Engineering»
are also taught to students of other
faculties of Riga Technical University.
Academic Work
Institute of
Applied Chemistry
The current scientific directions of IAC are
based on previous investigations at the
Faculty of Material Science and Applied
Chemistry. Several of these directions are
longstanding, for example, the synthesis
and investigation of non-linear optical
chromophores and catalytic oxidation with
air and oxygen.
The main task of the institute is providing
the development of higher education,
enhancement of its quality, realisation of
high level research work and cooperation
with Latvian producers, education of
highly qualified graduates and responsible
citizens.
All members of academic staff at the
Institute of Applied Chemistry hold the titles
of Doctor of Science or Habilitated Doctor
of Science and are engaged in research
and education. The academic work of the
Institute of Applied Chemistry is done in
close cooperation with the Latvian Institute
of Organic Synthesis, the University of
Latvia, the Institute of Solid State Physics,
and the Latvian State Institute of Wood
Chemistry.
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Research
The research of
the Institute of
Applied Chemistry
is conducted in
two main scientific
directions:
The synthesis of chemical
substances and materials for
components of optoelectronic
and information technology
devices (OE)
The production and use of
biofuels and the development of
new technologies for conversion
of biomass (BF)
BF
OE
The first direction (OE) is focused on the
development of new chromophores, luminophores
and the current transportation layers for
photovoltaics, as well as organic light emitting
devices, components for the optical information
records and treatment. OE research is done in close
cooperation with the Institute of Technical Physics
and the Institute of Solid State Physics.
The OE research includes synthesis and
investigation of new organic chromophores and
luminophores, including dendronised and glasses
formating, new ligands and new luminescent
lanthanide complexes, as well as research of
functionalised graphene oxide and graphene.
Synthesis of renewable fuels
In 2007, 2008, 2012, 2013 and
2015 research results of IAC
were mentioned in the Latvian
Academy of Sciences lists of
the 10 best Latvian scientific
achievements of the year.
Determination of composition
of complex mixture
Rotary evaporation
12
The second research direction (BF)
focuses on the development of chemical
and thermochemical methods for
conversion of biomass to fuel, improving
the methods of biodiesel fuel synthesis,
recycling of glycerine to valuable market
products, synthesis of hydrocarbons
from plant oils, pyrolysis of biomass
of various origins, gasification,
hydrothermal liquefaction, and
hydrodeoxygenation. Quality control
and quality assurance of mixed fuel,
the use of catalysts and development
of new catalysts are also researched.
Some work is also done in theoretical
organic chemistry, environmental
quality control and repeated use of
recycled chemicals or raw materials.
IAC has modern infrastructure and
provides facilities for students to use in
scientific research – currently 5 Doctoral
level students at IAC. The Institute of
Applied Chemistry participates in two
National Research Programmes.
The role of Professor Ojārs Neilands
as the creator of many scientific
research directions of IAC, such
as the investigation of non-linear
chromophores and catalytic
oxygenation, must be highlighted.
The research directions established by
Professor Ojārs Neilands are continued
by Professor Valdis Kampars, Professor
Valdis Kokars and Professor Svetlana
Čornaja. Professor Valdis Kampars
has developed the scientific direction
«Biofuels». The laboratories of the
Institute of Applied Chemistry are
well equipped for the synthesis and
characterisation of raw materials,
catalysts and synthesised products.
Chromatographic and spectroscopic
laboratories and laboratories for the
investigation of thermal conversion of
biomass and characterisation liquid
fuels allow modern investigations aimed
at solving different theoretical problems
and elaboration of new innovative
technologies for practical applications.
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Institute of
Design Technologies
The Department of Clothing
and Textile Technologies offers
study programme «Clothing
and Textile Technologies» at
three levels:
■■ Professional Bachelor’s degree
■■ Professional Master’s degree
■■ Doctoral degree
Director of the Institute of Design Technologies
Dana Beļakova, Dr.sc.ing.
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +371 26356510
dizains.rtu.lv
14
The Professional Bachelor’s programme (4
years) specialises in:
master programme have entered doctoral
studies and now own the scientific degree
Dr.sc.ing. or Dr.arch. Along with the graduates
from the master programme teaching staff
of Department of DMT includes experienced
professionals in Fashion and Furniture
Design, as well as the close collaboration with
manufacturers are kept.
Currently, IDT consists of two
departments:
■■ Department of Clothing and Textile
Technologies
■■ Department of Design and Material
Technologies
Bachelor studies at the
programme «Material
Technology and Design»
focus on textile, clothing,
wood and interior product
design and technologies.
The Professional Bachelor’s programme (4
years) specialises in:
■■ Clothing design and technology
■■ Textile design and technology
■■ Clothing technology
■■ Wood design and technology
■■ Pattern making
■■ Interior design and technology
■■ Textile technology (spinning, weaving,
knitting)
Academic activities
Predecessor unit of the Department
of Design and Material Technologies
- professor group was established in
1996 to develop a new multidisciplinary
study programme with using as a
prototype programme recently developed
design studies bachelor course in the
Design and Technology School of the
De Montfort University (GB). Umbrella
type programme was developed in
close collaboration with the prototype
programme director Dr. T. Cassidy and
teaching staff of Design School, and
Latvian Crafts Chamber. First graduates
had finished from the new engineer study
programme Crafts Technologies and
Design in 2000. In 2001 the programme
was transformed into the professional
bachelor Material Technologies and
Design programme, and the professional
master programme was launched with
the first graduates in 2002. Nowadays
11 graduates of master programme are
staff members of DMT teaching the
functional and market-led requirements
of product and furniture design, including
ergonomics, aesthetics and usability,
product collection development, branding
and visual language, as well as usercentred design, Computer Aided Design,
manufacturing technologies, sustainability
and the development of socially-conscious
products, supervise the projects were
students develop their comprehensive
designs within their own specialised area
of product design. 11 graduates from
The Professional Master programme lasts for
1.5 years.
15
Graduates become qualified product
designers. It is possible to obtain
a Master’s degree at the study
programme «Material Technology and
Design» in 2 years.
Research activities
Students of IDT can present their
best accomplishments in the annual
fashion show «The Spring of Kipsala»
and the exhibitions «Baltic Fashion &
Textile», «Design Isle» and «The Code
of Design».
The scientific research of IDT is based
on designing and improving the
manufacturing process of textiles,
clothing, and wood products. In the
last few years the field of research has
expanded significantly. In collaboration
with the Institute of Polymer Materials
and the Institute of Technical
Physics, as well as other Latvian and
foreign scientific institutions, several
interdisciplinary research projects have
been developed and are currently in
progress. These are:
■■ The development of new types of
functional textiles from natural
fibres;
■■ The modification of properties of
textile materials with metal and
metal oxide nano-coatings;
■■ The expansion of functional
properties of clothing by
integrating electronic systems;
■■ The improvement of design and
evaluation methods of special
purpose clothing.
16
IDT students take active part in international
exchange programmes with partner
universities or research institutes in order to
study or get an internship for a semester.
Successful graduates can continue their
studies at the Doctoral programme «Clothing
and Textile Technologies»- duration of studies
4 years.
The participation in the
National Research Centre
programme provides IDT
with modern equipment
for scientific research –
equipment for production
of nanofibres, among
others.
Doctoral students participate in a range
of exchange and research programmes
with partner universities and scientific
institutions. This provides additional
opportunities to work using modern
equipment. The list of partner universities
and scientific institutions includes: the
Institute of Natural Fibres and Medicinal
Plants in Poznan (Poland), Leibniz
Institute for Agricultural Engineering
in Potsdam (Germany), RWTH Aachen
University (Germany) and Kaunas
University of Technology (Lithuania).
Research results are summarised in
reports at international conferences or
in scientific publications and Doctoral
theses. Student exchange is promoted by
ERASMUS+ and scholarships for support
of Doctoral programmes, and that allows
our students to participate in at least two
international conferences abroad.
17
»
Rūdolfs Cimdiņš
The Institute of General Chemical
Engineering (IGCE) was established in
2010 by merging the Department of
General Chemical Engineering (DGCE),
Rudolfs Cimdins Riga Biomaterials
Innovations and Development Centre of
Riga Technical University (RBIDC). It is
now the largest institute in FMSAC by
scientific research output and the number
of graduates.
The Department offers
specialised studies in the
following fields:
■■ General Chemical Engineering
Institute of
General Chemical
Engineering
Director of the Institute of General Chemical Engineering
Līga Bērziņa-Cimdiņa, Dr.sc.ing.
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +371 67089211
vkti.rtu.lv
■■ Chemistry and Engineering of
Biomaterials
■■ Environmental Engineering
■■ Biotechnology
Researcher Marina Sokolova at work
with high-temperature differential
thermal analysis equipment
The forerunner of IGCE – the Department
of General Chemical Engineering – was
established in 1940 and was led by the following
respected professors: Alfrēds Ieviņš, Leonīds
Osipovs and Rūdolfs Cimdiņš. Since 2006 IGCE
is led by Professor Līga Bērziņa-Cimdiņa.
RBDIC was established in 2006 based on
Biomaterials Scientific Research Laboratory
(which, in turn, was established in 1996).
The aim of RBDIC is to develop biomaterials
intended for reconstructive medicine in
multidisciplinary collaboration with Latvian and
foreign scientists and medical professionals.
In 2012, RBDIC was renamed in honour of late
Professor Rūdolfs Cimdiņš. RBDIC is located on
Pulka Street 3, a short walk from the FMSAC.
The academic activity of IGCE spans all levels
(Bachelor, Master and Doctoral) and is part of
all study programmes offered at the Faculty
of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry.
Students from other faculties are also taught
at IGCE.
IGCE has a new and modern fluid mechanic,
heat and mass transfer training laboratory,
as well as scientific research laboratories
where students can do research required for
development of their theses.
Academic staff members are
experts in chemical engineering,
materials engineering
(especially ceramic and
polymer-ceramic composites
in the field of biomaterials and
ecomaterials), automation
and numerical modelling and
simulation, water treatment
and environmental engineering.
Academic activities
«
Nobody is interested in what you
cannot do, but instead in what you
can do.
Researcher Zilgma Irbe at work
with stereomicroscope
Director of Rudolfs Cimdins Riga Biomaterials
Innovations and Development Centre
Dagnija Loča, Dr.sc.ing.
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +371 67089628
vkti.rtu.lv
18
19
Research activities
Graduates of IGCE are
employed by scientific
research institutions,
centres for certification
and expertise and by many
industrial companies in
Latvia that produce building
materials, pharmaceuticals,
biofuel, foods and
cosmetics, manage water
and waste water treatment
facilities, as well as waste
recycling facilities and
landfills.
At IGCE the main field of research is
the development of novel biomaterials
and environmentally friendly materials,
investigation of production technologies
of materials and chemical and utilisation
of industrial by-products. Systematic
research in the field of biomaterials
has significantly benefitted from the
development of existing infrastructure
and the involvement of new scientists
from various fields of research – chemists,
chemical engineers, materials scientists,
physics, dentists, surgeons, etc.
Research fields of ICGE:
■■ Biomaterials for bone tissue repair and
tissue engineering;
Students are encouraged to engage in
research done at IGCE from the first years
of study and to take part in the annual
RTU Student Science and Technology
Conference, as well as in students’
conferences abroad. Bachelor and Master
theses can be prepared in collaboration
with industry or within the scope IGCE
scientific research projects.
All members of academic staff of IGCE
are also active in scientific research and
also consult the Latvian industry on the
matters of technology and environment.
The academic staff of DGCE consists
of 3 professors, 2 associated professors,
5 assistant professors, 5 lecturers, and
3 teaching assistants. Some members
of staff are young scientists already
acknowledged by students. Lectures are
also delivered by visiting academic staff
members from Lithuania, Germany, France,
India and other countries.
From 2012 to 2014 around 50 indexed
research articles have been published.
Since 2010 eight Latvian patents and one
European patent on innovative materials
for the use in medicine and for solving
environmental issues have been acquired.
IGCE collaborates with higher education
institutions and research centres in Latvia
and abroad − Germany, Switzerland, Finland,
France, Argentina, Poland, Lithuania, and
Estonia. IGCE takes part in three national
research projects and four international
research projects, as well as in the
establishment of the Research Centre of
National Significance. Members of scientific
and academic staff actively take part in
international internships.
■■ Materials for drug delivery systems;
■■ Innovative and energy efficient
materials designed to reduce
environmental pollution;
■■ Development and investigation of
properties of ceramics, glass and also
raw minerals;
■■ Mass transfer in solid-fluid systems;
■■ Biotechnology.
Scientific assistant Armands Bušs demonstrates the filter-press
Scientific assistants Anastasija Smirnova and Anna Vojevodova
demonstrate the stirring equipment
20
21
The Institute of Inorganic Chemistry was
founded in 1946. A large contribution to its
development was rendered by Professors from
Latvian universities as well as by the specialists
of industrial branches: A. Ievins (Director from
1946 to 1953 and from 1959 to 1962), L. Liepiņa,
A. Kesans, G. Vanags, K. Karlsons and A.
Vaivads.
Currently the Institute of
Inorganic Chemistry has three
laboratories:
■■ Laboratory of Plasma Processes (LPP)
■■ Laboratory of High-Temperature Synthesis
(LHTS)
■■ Laboratory of Electrochemistry (LE)
■■ Biomaterials Research Laboratory
Institute of
Inorganic
Chemistry
In 1998, the Institute of Inorganic Chemistry
of the Latvian Academy of Sciences was
reorganised and incorporated in Riga Technical
University as an independent structural unit.
In 2015 the Institute was reorganised and
incorporated as a structural unit in the Faculty
of Material Science and Applied Chemistry.
In the following years, the
research work has been
conducted by their students
and fellow members dealing
with the theoretical and
practical problems of current
interest in the fields of
inorganic chemistry and
technology (T. Millers, Full
Member of LAS, Director from
1984 to 1997; J. Grabis, Full
Member of LAS, Director since
1997), physical chemistry and
electrochemistry (B. Purins,
Full Member of LAS, Director
from 1962 to 1984, L. Maijs, I.
Vītiņa), analytical chemistry
and chemistry of coordination
compounds, as well as
environmental protection (J.
Bankovskis, Full Member of
LAS, J. Svarca).
Preparation of coatings
by using spray pyrolysis
technique
Director of the Institute of Inorganic Chemistry
Jānis Grabis, Dr.habil.sc.ing.
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +371 29450343
www.mlkf.rtu.lv
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23
The Institute performs
fundamental and applied
research in the following fields:
Plasma chemistry and technology: formation
laws of nanosized particles in a thermal plasma
flow; elaboration of technology and equipment
for manufacturing of nanosized powders of
nitrides, oxides, carbides, silicides, metals and
their homogeneous composites including coated
particles; functional materials - photocatalysts,
luminescent materials, flame retardants; pilot
production of nanosized powders.
Chemical methods for manufacturing of
ultrafine powders of oxides (combustion
synthesis, molten salts route, hydrothermal
synthesis, microwave synthesis).
Characterisation of nanosized particles (size
and shape of particles, phase composition,
chemical properties).
Processing of nanoparticles by using
nonreactive and reactive spark plasma sintering
technique.
Formation of thin oxide based coatings by using
spray pyrolytic technique.
Application of nanosized powders (together
with co-operation partners; matrix composites
of metals and ceramics, structure modification
of metals and polymers, functional ceramics,
construction materials).
The Institute offers
collaboration in the
following research
areas: passivation
of the nanosized
powders; development
of nanostructured
hard high-temperature
materials, determination
of their characteristics
and application areas;
application of the
nanosized powders for
modification of metals
and polymers and as
catalysts, photocalysts,
flame retardants and
luminescent materials.
The Institute has two pilot technological
apparatus based on radio-frequency
oscillators (100 KW) for preparation of
nanoparticles in the plasma flow and
spark plasma sintering technique (SPS825CE, SPS Syntex Inc.), apparatus
for XRD analysis (8 Advance, Bruker
AXS), photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS,
Pioneer, Bruker AXS) and chemical
analysis ELTRAON 900 (ELTRA GmbH),
DTA/TG apparatus up to 1800oC
(Linseis Messgerate GmbH), spray
pyrolysis technique (Holmarc).
The Institute provides research
opportunities for the Master and
Doctoral studies.
Production of inorganic oxides and platinum,
palladium, gold nanocomposites by extractivepyrolytic method, its functional properties.
Membrane extraction processes, accompanied
with heavy metals electrodeposition.
Development of new phosphate based
electrolytes and biomaterials.
The Institute collaborates with other RTU
institutions. The Institute of Solid State Physics,
PCT Ltd., NEOMAT as well as partners in
Germany, Lithuania, Bulgaria, Poland, Austria,
and Serbia.
24
25
The Biomaterials Research Laboratory (BRL)
was the first research group for biomaterials
in Latvia. It was initiated by Professor Rūdolfs
Cimdiņš in the 1990’s, but was then reactivated
by a researcher from Australia Associated
Professor Kārlis A. Gross in 2011. Until 2014 BRL
was part of the Institute of Biomaterials and
Biomechanics together with the laboratories of
biomechanics and biotextiles. Since 2015 it is an
independent research laboratory and the most
research productive unit at RTU.
Institute of Inorganic Chemistry
Biomaterials Research
Laboratory
Director of the Biomaterials Research Laboratory
Kārlis A. Gross, Dr.sc.ing.
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +371 20208554
www.mlkf.rtu.lv
26
General skills are taught
to researchers across
different disciplines. These
skills include reporting
research results, presenting
scientific outcomes for
contributions to the
discipline and presenting
new developments for
funding. At present, two
intensive courses include
Academic Writing and
Writing Scientific Papers
for International Journals.
These are general skills
required by all researchers
involved in scientific
research. This subject
provides the fundamentals
for preparation for scientific
research grant proposals.
Academic activities
Based on materials science and
engineering, the laboratory
works on the material structure,
characterisation, testing, and
properties. It applies new
ideas and developments for
the benefit of the industry
and society, particularly in
healthcare.
27
Research activities
The Biomaterials Research Laboratory
works broadly in the materials science
and engineering field, encompassing
inorganic (ceramics and metals) and organic
material (polymers). The development of
new materials is inspired by the design of
materials in nature.
The range of activities includes materials
synthesis, new methods for characterisation
of materials and testing, and new or
improved production strategies for
improving properties or adding functionality.
Research stems from activity in the field of
calcium phosphates, leveraging 28 years of
experience on synthesised powder, particles,
porous and dense bodies, films and coatings.
Of particular interest is the ability to change
material properties based on changes in
microstructure (structural rearrangements
and chemistry). Working with amorphous
materials and transition phases allows
greater flexibility in composition and
geometry. The crystal forming process limits
the possible changes due to the inability to
add any element during crystal growth.
Research on the amorphous and metastable
phases is driving the development of
additional characterisation tools and
more frequent characterisation to observe
material changes over time.
Changes to the surface of materials over
time drives material design decisions. The
change in environment may include the
change in biological landscape around
implants (in biomaterials research) or
the changing metal-ice interface during
relative movement (in subzero temperature
research).
Everything starts with a precise
characterisation of the material surface
and understanding the interactions on the
surface.
Collaboration is active
with two other faculties
of RTU (Faculty of Civil
Engineering, Faculty of
Mechanical Engineering),
The Faculty of Chemistry
at the University of
Latvia, and the Atomic
Spectroscopy Institute.
The Laboratory leads 2
EU co-ordinated projects.
It offers consulting on
the problems related to
materials science and
engineering.
BRL organised the Scandinavian Society
for Biomaterials Conference on the Design
of Biomaterials theme on 6-8 May 2015 in
Sigulda, attracting participants from 21
countries. Some past and present projects in
the Laboratory include:
■■ Marie Curie project Realignment
– Enhancing Implant Performance
through Structural Rearrangements in
Hydroxyapatite, 2010-2013,
■■ Latvian national research council.
Processing of metal surface to lower
friction and wear, 2015-2017
■■ Marie Curie project Refined Step: An
International Network on New Strategies
for Processing Calcium Phosphates, 20132017.
■■ M-ERA Net project. Signaling Implant:
Implants signal to bone for bone growth
and Attachment, 2016-2019.
28
29
Institute
of Polymer
Materials
In 1994, both were amalgamated for greater
intellectual and technical potential and
the Institute of Polymer Materials (IPM)
was established. Professor Mārtiņš Kalniņš
was the founder and first director. Since
IPM is headed by Leading Researcher Jānis
Zicāns. IPM offers study programmes in
chemical engineering of polymer materials
and composites at the Bachelor, Master and
Doctoral level.
A new study programme
«Materials Science»
was started in 1999. It is
based on the examples
and experience of similar
programmes in European
and USA universities.
The programme provides
training for specialists
in materials science,
awards Bachelor’s and
Master’s academic
degrees and it is also
possible to continue
education in the Doctoral
level.
Academic activities
The training of polymer material specialists
and polymer materials research began in
1958 with the establishment of the Chair of
Chemical Technology of Polymers within the
Faculty of Chemistry, initialised by Professor
Vladimirs Karlivāns. In 1964, the newly founded
Research Laboratory of Polymer Composite
Materials joined the Chair.
IPM also provides support for
study programmes «Chemistry»,
«Chemical Technology», «Clothing
and Textile Technologies» and
«Material Technology and Design».
Director of the Department of Polymer Materials Technology
Remo Merijs-Meri, Dr.sc.ing., Professor
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +371 67089252
In order to optimise academic work
in multiple study programmes the
Department of Polymer Materials
Technology was resumed in 2003,
headed by Professor Skaidrīte
Reihmane. Today, Professor Remo
Merijs-Meri leads the Department.
Director of the Institute of Polymer Materials
Jānis Zicāns, Dr.sc.ing.
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +371 67089252
www.mlkf.rtu.lv
30
31
Research activities
32
Research of composite materials at
IPM includes the whole spectrum
of micro-, macro-, submicro-, and
nano-level structures of composite
materials – disperse-filled, reinforced,
sandwich-structured and hybrid
composites, both thermoplastic and
thermoreactive polymer matrices are
investigated. Research at IPM includes
investigation of polymer composites
and nanocomposites with extensive set
of rheological, stress-strain, relaxation,
adhesion, thermal, magnetic, electric,
and other specific properties. The
developed polymer materials are
intended for the use as coatings, for
electrostatic charge neutralisation
and for isolation from electromagnetic
radiation, for sensors, high-frequency
devices, electronics and electrical
engineering, for construction and for
mechanical engineering, packaging,
medicine, military industry, etc.
Research activity at IPM is funded by EC
Framework Program projects, ESF and ERDF
co-financed projects, other EU-supported
projects, National Research Programme
projects and thematic and cooperation
projects of the Latvian Council of Science.
The Testing Laboratory of
Polymer Materials, accredited
according to LVS EN ISO/IEC
17025, operates since 1999. It
is headed by Dr.sc.ing. Jānis
Zicāns. There are more than
10 testing methods within
the scope of accreditation
available. In the voluntary
scope the laboratory provides
testing of broad range of
mechanical, thermal and
structural properties of
polymers and composites,
including nanocomposites,
as well as carries out R&D
activities according to the
specific requirements of the
national and international
customers.
IMP possesses modern
equipment and facilities
for melt manufacturing of
polymer composites and
nanocomposites, as well as
examination of microstructure
and properties of a broad range
of materials.
IPM has equipment for injection moulding,
compression moulding and extrusion of
polymers, composites and nanocomposites,
as well as equipment for investigation of
rheological properties of polymer melts,
evaluation of viscoelastic, calorimetric,
thermal, thermo-mechanical and mechanical
(including under cyclic loading conditions)
properties, analysis of mass transfer
processes in polymers, composites,
nanocomposites and adhesive compounds,
etc.
The institute of Polymer Materials closely
cooperates with other “RTU and national
institutions such as the Institute for
Mechanics of Materials of the University of
Latvia, the Institute of Solid State Physics
of the University of Latvia, the Institute of
Physical Energetics, Latvian State Institute
of Wood Chemistry, as well as partners in
Poland, Czech Republic, Italy, Germany, and
Ukraine.
The Institute of Polymer Materials collaborates
with Latvian manufactures to help improve the
technology of production of polymer materials,
the design of composites, as well as to
evaluate properties of manufactured products.
The Institute of Polymer Materials cooperates
with many of the largest Latvian polymer
materials processing companies: Tenax Group,
Evopipes Ltd., Izoterms Ltd., Poliurs Ltd., PAA
Ltd., JSC PET Baltija, Fedak Ltd., etc.
Research at the Institute of Polymer Materials
is aimed to develop a theoretical basis for
design of polymer composite materials and
to create a technological process for the
manufacture of these materials. Staff at
the Institute of Polymer Materials performs
research on control, management, and
optimisation of the processes occurring on the
contact surface and regions of boundary layers
of components during development of polymer
composite materials.
The recycling of polymer materials and
corresponding technological solutions are
important research areas for the Institute of
Polymer Materials.
33
The parts of the X-ray diffractometer Rigaku
Ultima+. Gonimeter and optics, including
X-ray tube on the left, sample stage in the
middle and detector on the right.
Institute
of Silicate
Materials
Director of the Institute of Silicate Materials
Gundars Mežinskis, Dr.habil.sc.ing.
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +371 67089141
www.smi.rtu.lv/en
34
Courses devoted to hydraulic and nonhydraulic mortar binders, porcelain, clay and
glass production technologies were taught
within the study programme «Technical
Chemistry» at the Department of Chemistry
of Riga Polytechnicum already in the
academic year 1866/1867. The course Silicate
Technology was entrusted to Maximilian von
Glasenapp (1845-1923), who is regarded as
the founder of silicate technology science in
Latvia.
The Department of Silicate Technology was
established in 1947. The Institute of Silicate
Materials (ISM) was founded in 1994 on
the basis of the Department of Silicate
Technology.
During 68 years of activity the Department
was headed by such long-standing leaders
as Professor Jūlijs Eiduks (1947-1980) and
Professor Uldis Sedmalis (1980-1999).
Professor Gundars Mežinskis has led the
Professor’s Group of Silicate Materials
Technology since 1999 (the Group was
renamed in 2007 to the Department of
Silicate, High Temperature and Inorganic
Nanomaterials Technology) and since 2000
he has also led the Institute of Silicate
Materials.
Significant changes in
academic and scientific
activities of ISM began
in 2001 when lecturers of
Professor’s Group of Silicate
Materials Technology
started academic work
at the Materials Science
Programme and research
in two EC 5th Framework
projects.
The Department of Silicate Technology
became one of the units of ISM and was
reorganised into the Professor’s Group of
Silicate Materials Technology in 1999. On
June 20, 2007 the name of the Department
was restored based on the decision of RTU
Senate – the Department of Silicate, High
Temperature and Inorganic Nanomaterials
Technology. This name characterises the
strengthened educational and scientific
activities.
35
Academic activities
The main lecture courses in the study
specialisation Chemistry and Technology
of Silicate and High-Temperature
Materials are: Chemistry and Technology
of Silicate Materials, Physical Chemistry
of High Temperature Materials,
Crystallography and Chemistry of
Crystals, Mineralogy, Chemistry and
Technology of Building Ceramics, Fine
Ceramics, Glass and Binders, and
Sol-Gel Technology. It is also possible
to specialise in Chemical Technology
of Inorganic Nanomaterials. In the
academic year 2010/2011 admission
to an academic Master programme
Nanotechnologies of Materials was
started. Within this Master’s degree
programme the academic staff of the
Department ensures 8 lecture courses:
■■ Research Methods of Nano-Scale
Objects
■■ Inorganic Nanomaterials Chemistry
and Chemical Production Methods
■■ Nanotechnology Standardization and
Metrology
Research activities
■■ Physical Chemistry of
Nanostructured Electroceramics
The main research direction at ISM is
chemistry and technology of silicate
materials (ceramics, glass, and binders),
inorganic nanomaterials and hightemperature non-metallic materials.
The research in chemistry and technology
of ceramics is focused on Latvian mineral
raw materials and their use in the
national economy.
Intensive research is done in the field of
restoration and preservation of natural
and artificial stone materials, materials
corrosion research and practical
restoration.
Main research facilities of ISM:
■■ Introduction to the Physical Chemistry of
Nanostructured Electroceramics
■■ N2 adsorption porosimeter Nova 1200
E-Series, Quantachrome Instruments
and Hg porosimeter Pore Master 33,
Quantachrome Instruments
■■ Oxide Nanomaterials
■■ Chemistry and Technology of Inorganic
Nanoparticles
■■ Differential thermal and thermomechanical analysis device SETSYS
Evolution TGA-DTA / TMA Setaram for
temperatures up to 1750 °C
■■ Nanoporous Materials
■■ Nanostructured Thin Films and Sol-Gel
Coatings
■■ X-ray diffractometer Rigaku Ultima +
Professor G. Mežinskis is Director of the
programme; it is accredited till December 31,
2018.
Every year Bachelor and Master students are
informed about the subjects for their theses.
At the department potential themes are
selected from the proposals of the academic
staff. Additionally, students can propose their
own themes, which can be helpful for future
career choices. Companies can also propose
their topics of interest. Thereby, the themes
of Bachelor and Master studies indicate
the interests of students and the potential
use of their knowledge in the existing
industrial sectors or scientific activities of the
university.
M.sc. Liga Grase preparing for measurements
with the Nova nanoSEM 650” field emission
scanning electron microscope. The microscope
offers unique low vacuum capabilities, and ultrahigh resolution low voltage imaging enabling
the imaging of insulating materials without the
need for sample coating.
The main sources of funding for
scientific research in the last
10 years have been resources
from cooperation programs,
international scientific research
works and European Union projects.
Total funding for scientific work
over the last 10 years has exceeded
4.4 million EUR.
More than 1/3 of the funds raised
or 1,790,300 EUR were used for
acquisition of advanced research
and technological equipment.
■■ Atomic force microscope VEECO CP II
Scanning Probe Microscope
■■ Scanning electron microscope Hitachi
Table Top Microscope TM 3000
■■ High-resolution field emission (Schottky)
low vacuum electron microscope FEI Nova
Nano SEM 650
ISM currently has 5 structural
units and also supports the
activities of the Testing
Laboratory of Silicate
Materials:
■■ Department of Silicate, High Temperature
and Inorganic Nanomaterials Technology
(2007)
■■ Laboratory of Glass and Ceramics (1961)
■■ Restoration and Conservation Centre of
Stone Materials (1995)
■■ Laboratory of Materials Surface
Morphology and Structural Analysis
(2007)
■■ Laboratory of Chemical Engineering of
Nanoparticles and Nanomaterials (2007)
Within these structural units tuition of
students takes place and the research work
associated with modern requirements and
development trends is performed
High-level scientific studies are
performed in sol-gel technology.
The Nova NanoSEM 650 scanning electron
microscope with Quickloader designed to
load regular sample stubs into the specimen
chamber via a chamber port without
breaking the working vacuum.
36
The 208HR High Resolution Sputter Coater
(Cressington Scientific Instruments) for SEM
applications offers a full range of coating
materials and gives unprecedented control over
thickness and depostition conditions in order to
minimize the effects of grain size.
37
Department of Physics (1958-1994)
Institute of Technical Physics (since 1994)
Directors:
Assistant Professor J. Klāss (until 1965)
Assistant Professor U. Upmanis (1965-1976)
The Department of Physics was established in
1958. In 1964 it became part of the Faculty of
Device Design and Automation. The Institute
of Technical Physics (ITP) was established
based on the Department of Physics and the
Semiconductor Physics Research Laboratory by
RTU Senate Decision No. 394 as of May 30, 1994.
The newly established ITP was placed within the
Faculty of Transport and Mechanical Engineering.
Institute of
Technical
Physics
Director of the Institute of Technical Physics
Māris Knite, Dr.habil.phys.
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +371 67089380
www.mlkf.rtu.lv
38
Since June 1999 the ITP is located de facto Āzenes
Street 14/24 under the premises of the Faculty of
Chemical Engineering. With physicists working
alongside chemists, materials science research
became a part of the Faculty, which was one of
the reasons for the name change of the Faculty.
RTU Senate Decision No. 446 as of January
31, 2000 renamed the Faculty of Chemical
Engineering to the Faculty of Materials Science
and Applied Chemistry (FMSAC). RTU Senate
Decision No. 448 as of March 27, 2000 legally
adjoined the ITP to the Faculty of Materials
Science and Applied Chemistry.
Assistant Professor J.Berziņš (1976-1986)
Assistant Professor A. Kalnača (1986-1993)
Professor A. Prančs (1993-1999)
Professor M. Knite (since 1999)
There are the Department
of Materials Physics,
Department of Optics,
Department of
Semiconductor Physics,
Research Laboratory of
Biomechanics, Scientific
Research Laboratory of
Materials Optics, Scientific
Research Laboratory of
Semiconductor Physics and
Laboratory of Material
Physics under ITP at this
moment.
On September 1 2001, RTU Astronomy
and Physics Professor Council started
work (later it became the Joint RTU and
Daugavpils University Astronomy and
Physics Professor Council). RTU Senate
appointed Professor Andris Ozols the
chairman of the Council. The Council meets
within the ITP facilities. Numerous RTU and
DU professors and associate professors
in physics have been confirmed and reconfirmed by the Council.
39
Academic activities
Research activities
ITP academic staff teach the following
mandatory courses for Bachelor,
engineering and professional level
students: Physics, Physics Fundamentals
of Technologies, Materials Structure
and Properties. At Master’s level ITP
teaches mandatory courses Physics of
New Materials and Nanomaterials and
the Physics Methods of Their Production.
Under the leadership of the ITP Director
M. Knite and in cooperation with other
FMSAC institutes the Doctoral study
programme ‘Materials Science’ was
launched in 2004. At this program ITP
professors teach several courses: Materials
Science, Smart Materials and Sensors
Physics, Optical Recording Physics,
Semiconductor Physics, Fundamentals of
Solid State Electronics, Laser Technologies
for Treatment of Materials, Materials for
Information Recording, Semiconductor
Materials and Devices and others.
ITP academic staff initiated several new
research directions after joining FMSAC
in 1999. Professor M. Knite started active
collaboration with the scientists of the
Institute of Polymer Materials and the
Institute of Silicate Materials and signed a
cooperation agreement with JSC Baltijas
Gumijas Fabrika (www.bgfrubber.com)
in 2000. As a result, the staff of the
Department of Materials Physics works
in the following areas: phase transitions
and structural changes in thin sheet smart
materials induced by laser radiation;
design, development and investigation
of polymer matrices and conductive
nanoparticle composites with a goal to
produce new sensor materials; optically
active polymer nanocomposite design,
development, and investigation.
As a contributor for several Latvian
Council of Science cooperation projects
and having completed two state funded
research programmes «Materials Science»,
M. Knite has established Materials Physics
Laboratory which is equipped with modern
facilities for development of smart
nanomaterials and investigation of various
sensor effects.
40
Academic staff of ITP also supervise
student research within study programme
«Materials Science». Promotional council
«RTU P-18» in Materials Science has
been formed after initiation by ITP and
it is eligible to award scientific Doctoral
degrees either in Physics or in Engineering.
The young Doctoral degree recipients at
the study programme «Materials Science»
have received two L’Oréal Prize for Women
in Science Awards, the Werner von Siemens
Excellence Award, the Latvenergo Award
of the Year and the Latvian Academy
of Sciences Ludvigs and Maris Jansons
Named Award in physics.
The research work is carried
out in the FMSAC Scientific
Research Laboratory Materials
Optics, which is equipped
with two holographic setups
on vibration-isolated optical
tables, 10 lasers (including two
solid state, two He-Ne gas
and six semiconductor) and a
picosecond spectrometer based
on YAG:Nd3+ lasers.
The Department of Semiconductor Physics, led
by Professor A. Medvids, collaborates closely
with the Institute of Silicate Materials. The
main research areas of the Semiconductor
Physics Scientific Research Laboratory are the
formation of semiconductor quantum cones (Si,
Ge, SiGe, CdTe, SiC), micro cones, p-n junctions
using powerful laser radiation, as well as the
development of technological fundamentals.
Using the scientific research done in the
Laboratory, the capability to form a structure
with a varied band gap (vary band) in the
quantum cones of elementary semiconductors
has been shown for the first time. This structure
can be used in the development of a new
generation of solar elements, light emitting
diodes and electron sources − promoting a more
efficient use of energy resources.
The research group of Professor A. Ozols
in collaboration with the Institute of
Applied Chemistry is doing research in the
following areas: investigation of materials
(amorphous chalcogenides, organic
azocompounds, photoreactive crystals)
using holographic grating spectroscopy and
other optical methods; dynamic holography
including four wave interaction and wave
front inversion; polarization holography.
Picosecond laser pulse propagation
in optical fibres has been studied in
collaboration with the Institute of
Telecommunications, Faculty of Electronics
and Telecommunications.
Since 1999, the research group of
Professor A. Ozols has worked on four
Latvian Council of Science projects, has
participated in the completion of two state
programs concerning the development of
multifunctional materials and the ERDF
project The Development of Fast Optical
Access Networks and Elements.
The institute scientists perform research
in several internationally and EU funded
projects (for example, MATERA Plus). As a
whole ITP is involved in the implementation
of the 7th Research Centre of State
Importance (LATNANO); this provided an
opportunity to purchase a modern AFMRaman microscope RENISHAW in Via Raman
Microscope in 2013.
On February 23, 2015, RTU Senate Decision
No. 587 legally adjoined the Research
Laboratory of Biomechanics (RLB) to the
Institute of Technical Physics. Leading
researcher Dr.ing. V. Vītiņš is the head of RLB.
A new direction of research started
approximately two years ago (in
collaboration with the Institute of Design
Technology) is human motion and industrial
vibration energy harvesting (assoc. prof. J.
Blums)
The scientific results of
the ITP are published
in such SCI journals as
Journal of Optical Society
of America B, Radiation
Effects and Defects in
Solids, Central European
Journal of Physics,
Applied Surface Science,
Materials Science and
Engineering C, Journal
of Nanoscience and
Nanotechnology, Sensors
& Actuators: A. Physical,
Advanced Engineering
Materials and others.
41
In the past DCTBAC was headed by:
■■ Professor Emīlija Gudriniece (19631989);
■■ Professor Andris Strakovs (1989-2000);
■■ Professor Māra Jure (since 2000).
Institute of
Technology of
Organic Chemistry
Currently, 3 full professors, 1 associate
professor, 3 assistant professors and 2
lecturers are working at the DCTBAC.
DCTBAC provides courses for several study
programmes within the Faculty.
Bachelor’s studies:
42
■■ Medicinal Chemistry (Selected
Chapters)
■■ Patents
■■ Teaching Assistant Practice in Specialty
■■ Chemistry Experiments and
Demonstrations
■■ Chemistry Informatics
■■ Electron Flow in Organic Compounds
■■ Information Literacy
The following professors supervise the
research in organic synthesis, medicinal
chemistry and transition metal catalysed
reactions:
■■ Ērika Bizdēna
■■ Aigars Jirgensons
■■ Māra Jure
■■ Edgars Sūna
■■ Māris Turks
Master’s studies:
Māris Turks, Dr.chem.
■■ Chemistry and Technology of Medicinal
Compounds
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +371 67089251
www.mlkf.rtu.lv
■■ Drug Dosage Forms
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +371 67089220
■■ Heterocyclic Chemistry (Selected
Chapters)
■■ Specialised Research Seminars
■■ Methods of Organic Synthesis
Māra Jure, Dr.chem.
Doctoral studies:
■■ Biological Chemistry
■■ Management of Chemicals
Director of the Department of Chemical Technology of
Biologically Active Compounds
The number of ITOC
employees varies from 20
to 30, including students,
who are actively involved in
research.
■■ Bioorganic Chemistry
■■ Introduction to Study Field
Director of the Institute of Technology of Organic Chemistry
Professor Māris Turks
is the Director of the
Institute of Technology of
Organic Chemistry since its
establishment in 2010.
Academic activities
The Institute of Technology of Organic
Chemistry (ITOC) was established in 1963,
when the Department of Technology of
Fine Organic Synthesis (in 2006 renamed to
the Department of Chemical Technology of
Biologically Active Compounds − DCTBAC)
was founded.
■■ Medicinal Chemistry
■■ Nanotechnologies in Drug Delivery and
Diagnostics
■■ Organic Chemistry of Transition Metals
■■ Purification and Analysis of Organic
Compounds
■■ Special Chapters of Biochemistry
■■ Structure of Organic Compounds and
Their Biological Activity
■■ Chemistry and Technology of
Pharmaceuticals
Research in physical chemistry, such as
X-ray analysis, is supervised by assistant
professor Anatoly Mishnev from the Latvian
Institute of Organic Synthesis (LIOS).
Many our graduates have received various
prizes for their Master’s theses. During the
studies our students have been awarded
with:
■■ E. Gudriniece & A. Ieviņš scholarship by
LAS
■■ K. Morbergs scholarship by University of
Latvia
■■ S. Hillers scholarship by JSC Olainfarm
■■ Scholarship by JSC Grindeks
■■ Scholarship by European Social Fund
43
Research activities
The synthesis and properties of
carbohydrates, purine nucleosides,
aziridines, tetrahydroindazoles and
quinazolines are researched. Vegetable
oils and the possibility to increase their
oxidative stability with natural and
synthetic antioxidants are also studied.
The fundamental research of organic
chemistry is devoted to secondary
structures of carbopeptoids and sulfur
dioxide as a solvent and reagent in
organic synthesis. Our studies devoted
to novel synthetic methodologies and
drug discovery are also carried out at
LIOS under supervision of Professor A.
Jirgensons and Professor E. Sūna.
■■ ERAF 2.1.1.1. project No.
2010/0278/2DP/2.1.1.1.0/10/APIA/
VIAA/045 «Biosynthesis and isolation
of macrolide type of antibiotics and
antiparasitic agents and production of
synthetic derivatives thereof» (2010-2013)
The applied research is done in cooperation
with JSC Grindeks, JSC Olainfarm,
PharmIdea Ltd., the Latvian Institute
of Organic Synthesis, Latvia State
Institute of Fruit-Growing, JSC Silvanols,
JSC Dzintars, Iecavnieks Ltd. and other
enterprises. Based on our research
manufacture of several products has
been started in Latvian pharmaceutical
factories. Some of our investigations have
been patented.
Few representative
publications of the research at
ITOC:
We are also elaborating technologies
for the synthesis of pharmaceutically
active substances, synthesising reference
compounds for impurities, as well as
isolating and modifying biosynthetically
produced biologically active compounds.
Few of the latest projects
realised at ITOC:
■■ Latvia-Lithuania-Taiwan joint project
«Synthesis of novel (deaza) purinetriazole conjugates and applications of
their fluorescent properties» (20152017)
■■ Latvian Council of Science (LCS) grant
No. Z14.0593 «Development of novel
agents for antitumor and antimicrobial
therapy» (2014-2017)
■■ RTU project «Plant extracts of
Camelina sativa oil as valuable
neutraceutical» (2014-2015)
■■ Latvia-Belarus joint project No. 11-13/
IZM14-18-L8027 «Design and synthesis
of triterpenoids modified with cyclic
triacylmethanes and heterocycles as
additional pharmacophores» (20142015)
■■ LCS grant No. Z12.0291 «Organic
reactions in and with liquid sulfur
dioxide» (2013-2016)
44
■■ LCS grant No. 09.1557 «Synthesis and
secondary structure elucidation of novel
carbopeptoids and triazole analogs
thereof» (2009-2012)
ITOC consists from the
Department of Chemical
Technology of Biologically
Active Compounds and two
scientific laboratories:
■■ Laboratory of Organic Synthesis
Research and Development
■■ Laboratory of Natural Products Research
■■ Marković, D.; Tchawou, W. A.; Novosjolova,
I.; Laclef, S.; Stepanovs, D.; Turks, M.;
Vogel, P. Synthesis and Applications of
Silyl 2-Methylprop-2-ene-1-sulfinates
in Preparative Silylations and GC
Derivatizations of Polyols and Carbohydrates.
Chem. Eur. J. 2016, 22, 4196–4205.
ITOC posses fully equipped laboratory
space (total area ~400 m2) for fine
synthesis and technology research
of organic compounds. The following
equipment is available at ITOC:
■■ Nuclear magnetic resonance
spectrometer Bruker Ultrashield 300
MHz
■■ Agilent Technologies 1200 Series HPL
chromatographs with DAD, RID and UV
detectors
■■ Lugiņina, J.; Uzuleņa, J.; Posevins, D.; Turks,
M. A ring-opening of carbamate-protected
aziridines and azetidines in liquid sulfur
dioxide. Eur. J. Org. Chem. 2016, 1760–1771.
■■ Waters ACQUITY H-Class UPLC-MS/
MS chromatographic system
■■ Ozols, K.; Cīrule, D.; Novosjolova, I.; Stepanovs,
D.; Liepinsh, E.; Bizdēna, Ē.; Turks, M.
Development of N6-methyl-2-(1,2,3-triazol-1yl)-2’-deoxyadenosine as a novel fluorophore
and its application in nucleotide synthesis.
Tetrahedron Lett. 2016, 57, 1174–1178.
■■ Perkin-Elmer FT-IR System Spectrum
BX IR spectrometer
■■ Stepanovs, D.; Jure, M.; Kuleshova, L.N.;
Hofmann, D.W.M.; Mishnev, A. Cocrystals
of Pentoxifylline: In Silico and Experimental
Screening. Crystal Growth and Design, 2015,
15, 3652-3660.
■■ Stepanovs, D.; Tetere, Z.; Rāviņa, I.; Kumpiņš,
V.; Zicāne, D.; Bizdēna, Ē.; Bogans, J.;
Novosjolova, I.; Grigaloviča, A.; Merijs Meri, R.;
Fotins, J.; Čerkasovs, M.; Mishnev, A.; Turks,
M. Structural characterization of cevimeline
and its trans-impurity by single crystal XRD. J.
Pharm. Biomed. Anal. 2016, 118, 404–409.
■■ Rjabovs, V.; Ostrovskis, P.; Posevins, D.;
Kiseļovs, G.; Kumpiņš, V.; Mishnev, A.;
Turks, M. Synthesis of Building Blocks for
Carbopeptoids and Their Triazole Isoster
Assembly. Eur. J. Org. Chem. 2015, 5572-5584.
■■ Agilent Technologies 6890N gas
chromatographs with FID and MS
detectors
■■ High accuracy polarimeter Anton Paar
MCP 500
■■ Automatic potentiometric titrator
Metrohm 877 Titrino Plus
■■ Camspec UV spectrometer
■■ Freeze-dryer (2 kg ice capacity)
■■ Pressure reactor Anton Parr series 4520
(work volume 1 L; pressure 130 atm)
■■ Carl-Fisher titrator
■■ Dosed liquid pump (capacity 2 l/h, 6
bar)
■■ Viscometer Cannon Instrument
Company CT500 series II
■■ Oil press Täby Press Type 20
■■ Porta ZoneTM portable ozonator
■■ Conradson apparatus
■■ Bizdēna, E.; Kumpiņš, V.; Turks, M. Process for
isolation of milbemycins A3 and A4. Eur. Pat.
Appl. EP2886640 (A1), 2015-06-24.
■■ Mierina, I.; Stikute, A.; Jure, M. Synthesis
and antiradical properties of 4-aryl-3,
4-dihydroquinolin-2-(1H)-ones, aza analogs of
neoflavonoids. Chem. Heterocycl. Comp. 2014,
50, 1137-1146.
45
Academic Bachelor study
programme
(KBK0)
Chemistry
4
Duration of studies:
4 years
Resultant degree:
Bachelor Degree of
Natural Sciences in
Chemistry
Programme prerequisites:
General Secondary
Education or 4-year
Vocational Secondary
Education
Study programme is envisaged to train
chemistry specialists for laboratories of
quality control and enterprises dealing with
environmental chemistry problems, chemical
processes and products, restoration of art
and cultural heritage objects, as well as to
prepare students for further studies.
During studies basic knowledge, skills and
competences in inorganic, analytical, physical,
organic and biological chemistry subjects
with specialization in practical methods
of analyses (testing), organic synthesis,
chemistry of renewable fuel, chemistry of
restoration and conservation, as well as
environmental chemistry are obtained.
Special importance is ascribed to the
knowledge and skills necessary for innovative
use of local resources, particularly renewable
resources. Studies include advanced methods
of synthesis and instrumental analysis used
for quality control of processes, products and
environment. Student can specialise in one of
two specialisations: chemistry or restoration
and conservation. The last concerns cultural
heritage objects of various type, size and
different materials based.
Specialisation is realised by involvement of
students in research projects of the faculty
or outside the faculty and during elaboration
of qualification work; basics of research work
and methods of investigation are acquired.
Study
programmes
of the faculty
46
47
Academic Master study programme
(KMT0)
Applied Chemistry
2
Duration of studies:
2 years
Resultant degree:
Master Degree of Natural
Sciences in Chemistry
Programme prerequisites:
Bachelor Degree in
Chemistry, Chemical
Technology or Materials
Science
Study programme is envisaged for training
of chemistry specialists for enterprises
producing chemical, biotechnological,
pharmaceutical, cosmetics, food processing
and wood processing industries, waste
recycling and production of construction
materials, ceramics, textile materials, fuels
etc., respective specialists for quality control
of products and processes, for research work
in laboratories and institutions, business
companies and public authorities.
During studies chemistry, some subjects of
chemical engineering, as well as subjects
of conservation and restoration of cultural,
art and historical heritage are studied in
depth; besides, the programme envisages
humanitarian and social, as well as free choice
subjects. Specialisation in food chemistry,
restoration, low carbon emission chemistry or
materials for photonics is feasible.
Knowledge in chemistry, chemical technology
and material science allows working at
various enterprises in different fields where
leading chemistry specialists are required,
which manage chemical processes and
are able to ensure quality, to develop new
methods for laboratories and industry. Such
knowledge is necessary for work at testing,
quality control and research laboratories
in order to create various materials and
products.
Doctoral study programme
(KDK0)
Chemistry
4
Duration of studies:
4 years
Resultant degree:
Doctor in Chemistry
Programme prerequisites:
Master of Engineering
Sciences in Chemistry,
Master of Chemistry
Study programme is envisaged for training
of chemistry specialists for enterprises
producing chemical, pharmaceutical,
cosmetics and food products, constructional
materials, ceramics, fuel, processing wood
etc., respective research laboratories and
institutions.
During studies essential knowledge about
chemical processes of various fields of
chemistry - organic, analytical, inorganic and
physical chemistry, as well as chemistry of
fuel, biologically active compounds, wood,
environmental chemistry, etc. – is acquired.
Besides theoretical knowledge a student gets
practical skills in pedagogy, acquires research
methods and technique, participates in
research seminars.
Knowledge in chemistry ensures ability to
work in different kinds of enterprises of the
field where leading chemistry specialists,
familiar with chemical processes, can provide
quality and are able to develop new methods
for routine work in laboratory and industry.
Such knowledge is essential to work in
various testing, quality control and research
laboratories of materials and products.
Graduates oriented to research are prepared
for further studies at the Doctoral level.
48
49
Academic Bachelor study programme
(KBK0)
Chemical
Technology
Study programme is the only program
in this field in Latvia. The programme
envisages basic theoretical education
in chemistry and chemical engineering,
acquisition of practical skills in teaching and
research laboratories, as well as practice
in specialty. The programme includes
specialisation in different directions of
chemical technology: Biologically active
compounds and their dosage forms;
Chemistry and technology of biomaterials;
Chemistry and technology of polymer
materials; Chemistry and technology
of silicate materials; Environmental
engineering; General chemical technology.
Simultaneously to theoretical studies
during elaboration of Bachelor thesis and
within specialty subjects a student acquires
research methods and techniques, as well as
can obtain practical skills at an enterprise.
The study programme trains specialists for
enterprises dealing with processing and
manufacturing chemistry, biotechnology
and pharmaceutical products, food,
cosmetics, fuel, wood, ceramics, textile and
building materials, as well as specialists for
corresponding research and quality control
laboratories, research institutions and
commercial companies.
Education in chemical engineering enables
to work in enterprises of different branches,
where specialists in engineering sciences
- who can manage chemical processes,
can ensure quality, are capable to develop
new methods and equipment, are able
to create, design and introduce new
innovative technologies - are needed. Such
knowledge is necessary to work in testing,
quality control and research laboratories of
different products and materials. Graduates
intended to research are prepared for
further studies at Master programmes.
50
Academic Master study programme
(KML0)
Chemical
Technology
4
Duration of studies:
4 years
2
Duration of studies:
2 years
Resultant degree:
Bachelor Degree of
Engineering Science in
Chemical Technology
Resultant degree:
Master of Engineering
Science in Chemical
Technology
Programme prerequisites:
General Secondary
Education or 4-year
Vocational Secondary
Education
Programme prerequisites:
Bachelor Degree in
Chemistry, Chemical
Engineering or Materials
Science
Study programme is the only program in
this field in Latvia. The program envisages
training of chemical engineering specialists
for enterprises dealing with processing and
manufacturing chemistry, biotechnology
and pharmaceutical products, food,
cosmetics, fuel, wood, ceramics, textile and
building materials, as well as specialists for
corresponding research and quality control
laboratories, research institutions and
commercial companies. Studies include typical
education of this branch: management and
automation of chemical processes, design
of production units, computer modelling,
chemometry, molecular spectroscopy,
crystallography and crystallochemistry,
ageing and protection of materials, chemistry
and technology of polymer and silicate
materials, fuels and lubricants, pharmaceutical
compounds and environmental protection.
Depending on the student’s choice he/she can
specialise in one of the following directions:
Biologically active compounds and their
dosage forms, Chemistry and technology
of biomaterials, Chemistry and technology
of polymer materials, Chemistry and
technology of silicate materials, Environmental
engineering, General chemical technology.
Simultaneously to theoretical studies during
elaboration of Master thesis and within
specialty subjects a student acquires research
methods and techniques, as well as can obtain
practical skills at an enterprise.
Education in chemical engineering enables
to work in enterprises of different branches,
where leading specialists in engineering
sciences - who can manage chemical
processes, can ensure quality, are capable to
develop new methods and equipment, are able
to create, design and introduce new innovative
technologies - are needed. Such knowledge
is necessary to work in testing, quality
control and research laboratories of different
products and materials. Graduates intended
to research are prepared for further studies at
the Doctoral programmes.
51
Doctoral study programme
(KDL0)
Studies include typical for this branch
education in processes and apparatus
of chemical technology, specialisation
in chemistry and technology of polymer
and silicate materials, fuels, biologically
active compounds and wood, as well as
environmental chemistry and technology.
Simultaneously with theoretical studies a
student gains practical skills in pedagogy,
acquires research methods and techniques,
participates in scientific seminars.
(WCV0)
Clothing and
Textile Technology
Chemical
Engineering
Study programme «Chemical Engineering»
is the only program in this field in Latvia.
The program envisages training of chemical
engineering specialists for enterprises
dealing with processing and manufacturing
chemistry, biotechnology and pharmaceutical
products, food, cosmetics, fuel, wood,
ceramics, textile and building materials,
etc., as well as specialists for corresponding
research laboratories and research
institutions.
Professional Bachelor study programme
4
Duration of studies:
4 years
Resultant degree:
Doctor of Engineering Sciences
Programme prerequisites:
Master of Engineering in
Chemistry or Chemical
Technology, Master of Natural
Sciences in Chemistry, Master
in Chemical Engineering,
Master of Engineering in
Materials Science
4
Duration of studies:
4 years
(Extramural – 5 years)
Resultant degree:
Professional Bachelor
Degree in Clothing and
Textile Technology and
Qualification of Engineer
in Clothing and Textile
Production
Programme prerequisites:
General Secondary
Education or 4-year
Vocational Secondary
Education
The study programme is implemented by
the Department of Clothing and Textile
Technologies of the Institute of Technology
and Design of Textile Materials of the Faculty
of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry,
Riga Technical University (RTU). The study
program has been developed on the basis of
the engineering study programme «Textile
and Clothing Technology» by expanding
the specialisation possibilities according
to market demand. The study programme
has been implemented since 2007. It was
accredited in 2008.
The study programme foresees the
opportunity of specialising in one of the four
study directions – textile technology, apparel
technology, apparel designing or textile and
apparel consumer science. The graduates
of the study programme are awarded
the qualification of a Textile and Apparel
Production Engineer and the professional
Bachelor degree.
Education in chemical engineering enables
to work in enterprises of different branches,
where leading specialists in engineering
sciences - who can manage chemical
processes, can ensure quality, are capable
to develop new methods and equipment,
are able to create, design and introduce new
innovative technologies - are needed. Such
knowledge is necessary to work in testing,
quality control and research laboratories of
different products and materials.
52
53
Professional Master study programme
(WGV0)
Clothing and
Textile Technology
The professional Master study
programme has been developed based
on the technical basis of the academic
Master study program «Textile and
Apparel Technology» (discontinued in
2010) by developing it and adapting
for the needs of professional studies.
Considering the significance of the
industry for the national economy
and the production versatility, as well
as the rapid development of textile
materials and technologies, the MSc
studies are directed towards broadening
professional expertise, taking as the basis
the professional qualification acquired
upon completion of the Bachelor study
programme and supplementing the
professional knowledge of academic
Bachelor students to the level of a
professional qualification of a production
engineer. Special attention is devoted to
the acquisition of the research methods
and versatile new technologies related to
the textile and apparel industry.
54
2.5
Duration of studies:
2.5 years
(Extramural - 3,0 years)
Resultant degree:
Professional Master Degree in
Clothing and Textile Technology
and
Qualification of Engineer in
Clothing and Textile Production
Programme prerequisites:
Bachelor Degree of Materials
Science
Doctoral study programme
(WDV0)
Clothing and
Textile Technology
4
Duration of studies:
4 years
Resultant degree:
Doctor of Engineering
Sciences
The study programme is implemented by the
Institute of Textile Material Technology and
Design of the Faculty of Material Science
and Applied Chemistry, Riga Technical
University (RTU). According to the sectoral
classification of the Republic of Latvia, the
study programme covers the subsector of
Materials Science – Textile and Clothing
Industry Technology.
The aims of the programme are to provide the
opportunity to acquire in-depth knowledge
and skills required for an independent
research, and to educate and train textile
and apparel technology experts of an
international level, including the competence
of the scientific work in the sectors related to
Materials Science, technology and business
decision-making processes.
55
Professional Bachelor study programme
(WCH0)
Materials
Technology and
Design
Studies cover the entire product
manufacturing cycle from the development
of product conception corresponding to the
specialisation, market research, elaboration
of compositional, constructive and
technological solutions to the manufacturing,
advertising and sales strategy selection.
The design studies are important elements
of the study process covering the skilful use
of colours, shapes, textures, volume, as well
creating visualizations at different stages of
product/collection development. Students
develop their abilities to use appropriate
research techniques, general purpose and
specialised vector and raster design software,
as well as enhance their modelling and
presentation skills through combination of
different media and methods. The prototypes
and/or collections developed within the
scope of term papers, projects and Bachelor
theses are demonstrated in fashion shows,
exhibitions of student works and are exposed
in the international exhibitions.
The study programme involves four years of
full-time study. Within the framework of the
study programme, students may spend one
or two semesters studying at universities of
the European Union, undertake internships
abroad in enterprises, design or architecture
bureaus.
Study programme «Materials Technology and
Design» is an «umbrella type» multidisciplinary
programme leading to the Bachelor’s Degree
in Materials Technology and Design and the
Professional Qualification «Product Designer»
in one of the following specialisations:
4
Duration of studies:
4 years
Resultant degree:
Professional Bachelor
Degree in Materials
Technology and Design and
Qualification of Product
Designer
Programme prerequisites:
General Secondary
Education or 4-year
Vocational Secondary
Education
Professional Master study programme
(WGD0)
Material
Design and
Technology
2
Duration of studies:
2 years
(Extramural – 2,5 years)
Resultant degree:
Professional Master Degree
in Material Design and
Technology
Programme prerequisites:
Bachelor of Materials
Technology and Design or
comparable education
Professional Master study programme
is a multidisciplinary study programme
that not only involves specialisation in a
certain field, but also focuses on scientific
and practical solution-oriented research
planning, implementation, result analysis,
explanation, description writing, development
of the forecasts, as well as the integration of
obtained results in product/service qualities.
The designer portfolio can be developed
through participation in the international
exhibitions, competitions, fashion shows, other
mass events and their organisation.
Within the framework of the study programme,
students may get acquainted with the study
programmes of other universities, spend one
semester studying at leading universities of the
European Union within the scope of ERASMUS
or other exchange programmes, undertake
internships abroad or continue studies at other
universities of the European Union.
The aim of the study programme is to provide
professional education in materials design
and technology in order to obtain a Master’s
degree, which ensures the acquisition of
relevant knowledge and skills allowing the
designer to operate as an industry artist and
mediator, who is able to combine the material,
produced research ideas and manufacturing
technology choices with market and costeffectiveness studies, to identify new types of
problems and ways of solving them, as well as
allow carrying out research and pedagogical
activities, continuing studies at the Doctoral
study programme.
■■ clothing design and technology;
■■ woodwork design and craft technologies;
■■ leather design and technologies;
■■ textiles design and technologies.
56
57
Academic Master study programme
(KMN0)
Nanotechnologies
of Materials
2
Duration of studies:
2 years
Resultant degree:
Master Degree of Engineering
Science in Nanotechnologies
Programme prerequisites:
Bachelor Degree or
Professional Bachelor
Degree in Chemistry,
Chemical Technology,
Physics, Materials Science, or
comparable education
58
The aims of the academic Master study
programme «Nanotechnologies of
Materials» are to educate and train high
level specialists in the fields of nanomaterials
and nanotechnologies, inorganic, organic,
polymer nanomaterials, nanobiomaterials; to
develop students’ understanding of production
technologies of nanomaterials and to enable
them to apply these technologies in their
scientific research. Name of qualification:
Master of Engineering Sciences in
Nanotechnologies.
The basic tasks of the Master study
programme are to provide the students with
the opportunity to acquire the knowledge of
several fields of fundamental sciences related
to technologies of nanomaterials, to acquire
knowledge of specific professional disciplines
related to the synthesis of nanomaterials and
their research methods.
Academic Bachelor study programme
(WBW0)
Materials Science
The study programme «Materials Science»
is a multidisciplinary study programme,
which has been implemented since the
academic year 1999/2000.
The volume of the study programme is 120
credit points. 86 credit points are allocated
to the compulsory study courses. Besides
traditional study courses (mathematics,
physics, chemistry, etc.), more than a
half of the credits are allocated to the
courses, which deal with general aspects
of materials science (structure-property
relationships, the guide to materials
development, materials of different
origin, composite materials, handling
and processing of materials, quality
assessment and certification of materials,
aging, recycling, ecology, and selection of
materials, etc.).
Field-specific study courses (15 credits)
are based on the study of a wide range
of materials, devoting attention to their
applications (construction, electronics, fibre
materials, coatings, adhesives, etc.). The
study programme ensures students with
the background knowledge that enables
them to continue their studies achieving
Master’s and Doctoral degrees in materials
science.
3
Duration of studies:
3 years
Resultant degree:
Bachelor of Engineering
Science in Materials
Science
Programme prerequisites:
General Secondary
Education or 4-year
Vocational Secondary
Education
The study programme is
implemented by experienced
lecturers and scientists of the
Institute of Polymer Materials
of the Faculty of Materials
Science and Applied Chemistry in
collaboration with the academic
staff of the Departments of
Chemistry, Silicate Materials,
Technical Physics, General Chemical
Technology, and the Institute of
Biomaterials and Biomechanics.
The study programme aims to
ensure that students acquire
research skills and gain experience
in the novel experimental
techniques and equipment of the
above-mentioned departments.
The study programme envisages
the elaboration and defence of the
Bachelor thesis that is independent
mandatory research conducted by
a student on a chosen topic in the
relevant field.
59
Academic Master study programme
(WMW0)
Duration of studies:
2 years
Resultant degree:
Master of Engineering
Science in Materials
Science
Programme prerequisites:
Bachelor of Engineering
Sciences, Natural Sciences
(WDW0)
Materials
Science
Materials
Science
2
Doctoral study programme
The study programme «Materials Science» is a
multidisciplinary study programme, which has
been implemented since the academic year
2002/2003. Within the compulsory courses
(37 credit points) of the study programme
students first of all acquire deeper theoretical
knowledge and practical skills on key
disciplines of materials science. Students are
enabled to specialise in some particular topics
of materials science and technology (polymeric
materials and composites, glass and ceramics,
wood, fibres, biomaterials, etc.) by acquiring
respective field-specific study courses and
necessary spectra of experimental techniques
in this field and to make an independent
experimental research work in this area. When
completed and peer-reviewed, it is presented
as a Master thesis.
The programme is the foundation for further
studies at the Doctoral programme. The study
programme is implemented by experienced
lecturers and scientists of the Institute of
Polymer Materials of the Faculty of Material
Science and Applied Chemistry in collaboration
with the academic staff of the Departments
of Chemical Engineering, Silicate Materials,
Technical Physics, as well as the Institute of
Inorganic Chemistry, Institute of Materials
and Structures, Institute of Biomaterials and
Biomechanics.
The students of the so far only Doctoral
study programme «Material Science»
in Latvia are given chance to take high
standard theoretical courses in material
science and technology of innovative
materials which are based on materials
physics and material chemistry. They
can focus their studies in one of three
study branches: «Materials for electronics
and photonics», «Polymer, silicate and
composite materials for constructions»,
«Biomaterials».
4
Duration of studies:
4 years
Resultant degree:
Doctor of Physics or
Doctor of Engineering
Science
Programme prerequisites:
Master of Engineering
Sciences, Master of
Natural Sciences
The graduates of Doctoral programme
have been given a chance to defend their
Doctoral thesis in the Doctorate Council
RTU P-18 in one of following sub-branches
of Materials Science: material-physics,
polymers and composite materials, ceramic
materials and biomaterials. After successful
defence they acquire Doctoral degree in
physics or engineering science. Doctoral
students are allowed to perform their
scientific work using just obtained and
modern scientific equipment at the Institute
of Technical Physics, Institute of Polymer
Materials, Institute of General Chemical
Technology, Institute of Silicate Materials,
Institute of Biomaterials and Biomechanics
and Riga Biomaterial Innovation and the
Development Centre of RTU, named after
Rūdolfs Cimdiņš.
During their Doctoral course students
gain skills to appropriately develop new
materials, perform systematic and versatile
research on their physical and other
properties, as well to utilise these materials
to elaborate new innovative prototypes or
point out their prospective application.
60
61
Faculty of Materials
Science and Applied
Chemistry
3/7 Paula Valdena Street,
Riga, LV 1048, Latvia
Phone: +371 67089249, fax: +371 67615765
E-mail: [email protected]
www.mlkf.rtu.lv
62
Dean
Associate Dean for
Academic Affairs
Valdis Kokars, Dr.chem.,
Professor
Māra Jure, Dr.chem.,
Professor
Phone: +371 67089224
Phone: +371 67089220
E-mail: [email protected]
E-mail: [email protected]
Associate Dean for
Research
Associate Dean for
Research Strategy
Mārcis Dzenis, Dr.sc.ing
Professor
Jānis Ločs, Dr.sc.ing.
Assoc. Professor
Phone: +371 67089220
Phone: +371 67089628
E-mail: [email protected]
E-mail: [email protected]
63
www.rtu.lv