Faculty of Chemistry

Sukurta: 27 August 2013

chf24 Naugarduko, LT-03225 Vilnius
Tel. 233 0987, fax 233 0987
E-mail:
www http://www.chf.vu.lt

Dean – Prof. Habil. Dr. Aivaras Kareiva

STAFF

49 teachers (47 holding research degree), 9 research fellows (6 holding research degree), 59 doctoral students.

 

RESEARCH AREAS 

Synthesis and Investigation of Novel Materials and Nanostructures, Development of Analysis Methods

DOCTORAL DISSERTATIONS MAINTAINED IN 2015

J. Bucevicius. Pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine-based π-conjugated fluorophores with 1,2,3-triazole and ethynyl linkers: synthesis and photophysical properties.

N. Karlonas. Solid phase extraction and fast gas chromatography for a residue analysis of sedative-hypnotic drugs in biological samples.

I. Karpavicienė. Development of synthetic routes towards β’-hydroxy- or α-substituted enones and evaluation of structure – antiproliferative activity relationship of synthesized compounds.

E. Kielė. Development and application of new methods for the conservation of metal cultural heritage articles.

A. Linkevičiūtė. Preparation and characterization of flavonoids-loaded lipid liquid crystalline systems.

A. Makaravičiūtė. Site-directed antibody immobilization in immunosensor development.

V. Mažeiko. Polyaniline and polypyrrole gold nanoparticles and different electron transfer mediators’ application in glucose biosensors design.

L. Mikoliūnaitė. Application of polypyrrole for biosensor design and modification of living cells.

U. Samukaitė-Bubnienė. Investigation of polypyrrole modified biosensor systems by fluorescence techniques.

A. Strakšys. Poly(urethane urea) microparticles: synthesis, investigation and application for immobilization of maltogenic α-amylase.

V. Šmitienė. Microextraction and gas chromatographic determination of organotin compounds.

MAIN CONFERENCES ORGANIZED IN 2015

2nd international conference of chemists Nanochemistry and Nanomaterials 2015.

17th international conference-school Advanced Materials and Technologies 2015.

International conference of Lithuanian Chemical Society Chemistry and Chemical Technology 2015.

DEPARTMENT OF ANALYTICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY 

24 Naugarduko, LT-03225 Vilnius
Tel. 219 3117 fax  233 0987
E-mail:

Head - Prof. Dr. Stasys Tautkus

STAFF 

Professors:  Habil. Dr. A. Padarauskas, Dr. A. Ramanavičienė, Dr. S. Tautkus, Dr. V. Vičkačkaitė, Habil. Dr. E. Juzeliūnas (part-time).
Associate professors:  Dr. A. Kaušaitė-Minkštimienė, Dr. A. Katelnikovas, Dr. V. Olšauskaitė, Dr. E. Naujalis (part-time), Dr. K. Leinartas (part-time).
Doctoral students: I. Baškirova, L. Glumbokaitė, M. Janulevičius,  N. Karlonas, A. Linkevičiūtė, A. Makaravičiūtė, V. Mažeiko,  A. Popov, V. Poškus, E. Raudonytė-Svirbutavičienė, V. Šmitienė,   L. Taujenis,  A. Žarkov, A. Žilionis.

RESEARCH INTERESTS

Development of UPLC-MS techniques for the characterization and determination of organic and bioorganic compounds

Novel microextraction techniques for gas chromatographic analysis

Development of biosensors and immunosensors

Determination of trace elements using atomic absorption spectrometric, atomic emission spectrometric and spectrophotometric metods

Photochemical synthesis of metal oxide particles

Up-conversion phosphors for bio-imaging

Rare earth and transition metal doped phosphors

Hydrothermal synthesis of luminescent nanoparticles

RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2015

Projects Supported by University Budget  

Ultra-High Pressure Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry for the Investigation of Organic and Bioorganic Compounds. Prof. A. Padarauskas. 2011–2020.

A reliable, sensitive and rapid method for determination of nicotine and three minor alkaloids in tobacco by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography in hydrophilic interaction chromatography mode coupled with tandem mass spectrometry has been established. Separated analytes were determined by electrospray ionization MS/MS in the positive ion mode using multiple reaction monitoring. Alkaloids from tobacco were extracted in an ultrasonic bath with acetonitrile/water mixture containing ammonium acetate buffer. The performance of the proposed method was tested for the extraction and determination of the four alkaloids in cigarette tobacco fillers and satisfactory results were achieved.

Main publication:

Taujenis, L., Olšauskaitė, V., Padarauskas, A. 2015. Determination of nicotine and three minor alkaloids in tobacco by hydrophilic interaction chromatography-tandem mass sSpectrometry. Acta Chromatographica, vol. 27, p. 373–385.

Application of Polymeric Particles and Nanostructured Surfaces in Biosensors Design. Prof. A. Ramanavičienė, Doc. A. Kaušaitė-Minkštimienė. 2011–2020.

Some challenging bioanalytical problems as sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility and reliability can be resolved by applying nanostructure based electrochemical and optical biosensors.

3D gold nanostructures (AuNS) were electrochemically synthetized on a graphite electrode. p-p conjugated polymer polypyrrole (PPy) particles were synthesized by chemical oxidative polymerization of pyrrole (Py) monomers using H2O2 as an oxidant. A comparative study of different glucose oxidases and gold nanoparticles (AuNP) of different size for amperometric glucose detection by reagentless biosensor was performed. Deposition of charge-stabilized silver nanoparticles, from suspensions containing tannic acid (tannin), on mica covered by the poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) supporting layer was studied. The results were interpreted using the random sequential adsorption model. 

Main publications:

German, N., Kausaite-Minkstimiene, A., Ramanavicius, A., Semashko, T., Mikhailova, R., Ramanaviciene, A. 2015. The use of different glucose oxidases for the development of an amperometric reagentless glucose biosensor based on gold nanoparticles covered by polypyrrole. Electrochimica Acta, vol. 169, p. 326–333.

Kausaite-Minkstimiene, A., Mazeiko, V., Ramanaviciene, A., Ramanavicius, A. 2015.  Evaluation of chemical synthesis of polypyrrole particles. Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, vol. 483, p. 224–231.

Oćwieja, M., Popov, A., Adamczyk, Z., Morga, M., Ramanaviciene, A., Ramanavicius A. 2015. Deposition of silver nanoparticles from suspensions containing tannic acid. Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, vol. 477, p. 70–76.

Novel  Microextraction Techniques for Gas Chromatographic Analysis. Prof. V. Vičkačkaitė. 2011–2020.

Dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction based on the solidification of a floating organic drop (DLLME-SFO) in combination with an in situ derivatization was suggested for phenyltin compounds sampling and preconcentration from water solutions. Gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric conditions for the determination of extracted analytes were optimized. The analytical characteristics of the prepared technique were determined. This work demonstrated that DLLME-SFO coupled to gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric determination can be an adequate method for the speciation analysis of phenyltin compounds in aqueous solutions. The proposed technique is fast, reliable and environment-friendly as it consumes only 15 μL of the extraction solvent.

Main publication:

Šmitienė, V., Bugelytė, B., Vičkačkaitė, V. 2015. Phenyltin compounds: dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction and gas chromatographic–mass spectrometric determination. Chemija, vol. 26 (1), p. 32–37.

Investigation of Instrumental Methods of Analysis of Environmental, Industrial, Biological and Cultural Heritage Objects. Prof. S. Tautkus. 2011–2020.

The influence of different parameters on the absorbance of chromium was described in this work. Acetylene and air pressure, influence of hydrochloric, sulfuric and nitric acids on the analytical signal were investigated. The methodology for determination of chromium in coffee by flame atomic absorption spectrometry after extraction by a microwave system has been suggested. The obtained results demonstrated that the suggested methodology has a good reproducibility (Sr in the range from 1.0 to 4.8%) and high precision (recovery in the range from 95 to 103%).                   

Rare earth and Transition Metal Doped Phosphors. Assoc. Prof. A. Katelnikovas. 2011–2020.

The synthesis and characterization of novel phosphors doped with rare earth and transition metal ions is the scope of this project. In 2015 several molybdate and phosphate based phosphors doped with Ce3+, Pr3+, Eu3+ and Sm3+ were prepared and their optical properties investigated. In relation with this project several publications are in preparation.

National Research Projects

Research Council of Lithuania. Perennial Legumes – A Value-Added Food Supplement and a Source of Functional Ingradients (SVE-14012 ). Prof. A. Padarauskas. 2014–2015.

The phytoestrogens, alkaloids and tannins in the different parts (leaf, flower and steam) of perennial legumes growing in Lithuania were studied using ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array and a mass spectrometric detector.

Research Council of Lithuania. Study of Optical Properties and Biocompatibility of Na(Y/Gd)F4 Nanoparticles (MIP-030/2014). Prof. G. Streckytė. 2014–2016.

2015 was focused on the investigation of various conditions for measuring up-conversion emission spectra and decay curves upon changing the laser power. The obtained results will give insight in up-conversion emission mechanisms.

Dr. Bronislovas Lubys Support and Charity Foundation. Synthesis and Investigation of Fluorescent Inorganic Markers. Assoc. Prof. A. Katelnikovas. 2015–2016.

Phosphate based inorganic nano-sized luminophores are synthesized by hydrothermal method. Various synthesis parameters (pH, time, temperature) on the size and phase purity of obtained particles are under investigation. The optical properties of rare earth and transition metal ions doped into these phosphate matrices are explored.

Contractual Research

CC Fermentas, part of Thermo Fisher Scientific (Lithuania)
CC Elme metalas (Lithuania)

MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION) PARTNERS

Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology (Lithuania)
CC Fermentas, part of Thermo Fisher Scientific (Lithuania)
Kaunas University of Technology (Lithuania)
State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine (Lithuania)
Malmo University (Sweeden)
Institute of Microbiology, National Academy of Sciences (Belarus)
Jerzy  Haber  Institute  of  Catalysis  and  Surface  Chemistry,  Polish  Academy  of  Sciences (Poland)
Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry
Tailorlux GmbH (Germany)
Monpellier University Institute of Membranes (France)

OTHER SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITIES

Prof. A. Padarauskas –

  • editorial board member of the journal Chemija (Chemistry).

DEPARTMENT OF APPLIED CHEMISTRY

24 Naugarduko, LT-03225 Vilnius
Tel. 219 3176, fax 233 0987
E-mail:

Head - Prof. Dr. Rimantas Raudonis

STAFF

Professors: Habil. Dr. V. Daujotis, Dr. R. Raudonis, Dr.  V. Kairys (part time), Dr. J. Senvaitienė (part time).
Associate professors: Dr. E. Garškaitė, Dr. S. Šakirzanovas, Dr. A. Žalga.
Lecturers: Dr. Kiuberis, Dr. Ž. Stankevičiūtė, Dr. R. Voronovič (part time), Dr. D. Ragauskienė (part time).
Research fellows: Dr. E. Garškaitė (part time), Dr. S. Šakirzanovas (part time).
Doctoral students: E. Kielė, Y. Barushka, G. Braziulis, S. Kareiva, J. Raudonienė, D. Sakalauskas, A. Zolumskis, D. Baziulytė, A. Pulmanas, P. Ušinskas, L. Alinauskas, R. Golubevas.

RESEARCH INTERESTS

Film and powder synthesis by wet chemistry methods, surfaces and interfaces, nanostructural materials, sol-gel chemistry

Nanoparticle synthesis and film deposition for biomaterials, water cleaning, antifouling surfaces, optoelectronics

Luminescent materials for solid state lighting, upconverting materials for theranostics

Interfacial liquid properties and development of techniques for their measurements

Solid state materials

Application of polymers for cultural heritage conservation

Synthesis and characterization of different molybdates and vanadates

RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2015

Projects Supported by University Budget

Investigation of the Comoposition of Historical Sealing-wax in Manuscripts Collection and Assessment of the Restoration Compounds. Dr. D. Ragauskiene. 2012–2016.

The study is focused on the composition of seals in manuscripts dated from 16–19th century and collected in Wroblewski Library of the Lithuanian Academy of Sciences. Binding medium of the seals was identified using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. Elemental composition was investigated by SEM-EDX analysis in order to detect pigments and fillers.

Investigation of Bookbindings and the Components of the Books Printed in 17th Century Lithuania. Dr. D. Ragauskiene. 2012–2016.

The purpose of this study was: to select methods of analysis in order to identify classes of tannins in new-made and historical vegetable tanned leather; to identify main components of the books printed and bond in 17th century Lithuania; to confirm binding period and territory of selected books.

Main publication:

Čiuladienė, A., Steponavičiūtė, M., Ragauskienė, D. 2015. What is dicovered by complex examination of bookbinding and bookblock? Book Science, WLLAS edition.

Project funded by Research Council of Lithuania. Upconverting Nanoparticle Synthesis. Study of Optical Properties and Biocompatibility of Na(Gd/Y)F4 Nanoparticles. Assoc. Prof. S. Sakirzanovas. 2014–2016.

Fluoride based nanoparticles exhibit higher upconversion efficiency compared to oxide materials. Reliable and repeatable fluoride nanoparticle synthesis procedure was prepared. Chloride salt thermal decomposition method offers reliable strategy for controllable particle size nanomaterials, starting from 10 nm. Scanning electron microscope images show highly monodisperse samples. In order to adapt those materials for biosystems suitable particle surface properties are necessary. 

Electrochemical Adsorption.  Prof. V. Daujotis. 2011–2020.

Piezoelectric resonator measurements in perchloric acid, sodium tetrafluoroborate and sodium sulphate solutions and comparison with earlier reported measurements in hexafluorophosphate, perchlorate and chloride solutions show that a decrease of interfacial viscosity of anion solutions, when gold electrode is polarized towards potential of zero charge, is mostly governed by surface charge. The findings provide additional arguments to earlier presuposition that by controlling the applied potential, it is possible to control the viscosity of liquid layer close to the solid interface what increases the ability to actively manipulate a wall-bounded liquid flow field to effect a desired change.

Main publications:

Pulmanas, A., Plaušinaitis, D., Daujotis, V. 2015. Influence of applied potential on wall-bounded water flow. International Journal of Electrochemical Science, vol. 10, p. 1742–1751.

Plausinaitis, D., Ambrulevicius, F., Daujotis, V. 2015.  Piezoelectric resonator study of the viscosity of interfacial layers at gold electrode surface in perchloric acid, tetrafluoroborate and sulphate solutions. International Journal of Electrochemical Science, vol. 10, p. 7251–7260.

Synthesis and Characterization of Different Molybdates and Vanadates. Assoc. Prof. A. Zalga. 2015–2020.

Main publication:

Kazakevičius, E., Kežionis, A., Žukauskaitė, L., Barré, M., Šalkus, T., Žalga, A., Selskis, A., Orliukas, A. 2015. Characterization of Na1.3Al0.3Zr1.7(PO4)3 solid electrolyte ceramics by impedance spectroscopy. Solid State Ionics, vol. 271, p. 128–133.

Synthesis of Calcium Phosphates by Sol-Gel Method. Z. Stankevičiūtė. 2015–2020.

Synthesis of calcium phosphate powders and coatings on titanium, silica and fused silica substrates.

Main publication:

Malakauskaite-Petruleviciene, M., Stankeviciute, Z., Niaura, G., Prichodko, A., Kareiva.A. 2015.  Synthesis and characterization of sol–gel derived calcium hydroxyapatite thin films spin-coated on silicon substrate. Ceramics International, vol. 41, p. 7421–7428.

Film and Powder Synthesis by Wet Chemistry Methods. Surfaces and Interfaces. Nanostructural Materials. Sol-Gel Chemistry. Assoc. Prof. E. Garškaitė. 

MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION) PARTNERS

Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology (IPHT), Jena (Germany)
National Cancer Institute, Vilnius (Lithuania) 

DEPARTMENT OF INORGANIC CHEMISTRY

24 Naugarduko, LT-03225 Vilnius
Tel. 219 3110, fax 233 0987
E-mail:  

Head – Prof. Habil. Dr. Aivaras Kareiva

STAFF 

Professors: Habil. Dr. A. Abrutis, Habil. Dr. J. Barkauskas, Habil. Dr. A. Beganskienė, Habil. Dr. A. Kareiva, Dr. R. Pauliukaitė (part-time), Dr. A. Selskis (part-time).
Associate professors: Dr. V. Kubilius, Dr. V. Plaušinaitienė.
Lecturers: Dr. R. Skaudžius, Dr. I. Grigoravičiūtė-Puronienė, A. Stanulis (part-time).
Research fellows: Dr. I. Bogdanovičienė, Dr. Z. Šaltytė.
Assistants: M. Misevičius (part-time), J. Pilipavičius (part-time).
Doctoral students: O. Darčanova, J. Pilipavičius, M. Misevičius, S. Butkutė, M. Malakauskaitė-Petrulevičienė, L. Pavasarytė, M. Liubinienė, V. Jonauskė, E. Gražėnaitė, J. Gaidukevič, D. Sokol, M. Skruodienė, A. Ežerskytė-Misevičienė, O. Opuchovič, A. Laurikėnas.

RESEARCH INTERESTS 

Developments of metal-organic chemical vapour deposition technique for oxide films 

Transparent conducting oxides

Dielectric, ferroelectric and piezoelectric materials

Superconducting, magnetic and magnetoresistant materials

Sol-gel processing of luminescent and biomaterials

Conservation and restoration chemistry

Synthesis, investigation and application of carbon nanomaterials.

Synthesis of nanoparticles of metal, semiconductors and upconversion nanoparticles for biomedical and optic applications

New materials and procedures for conservation and preservation of cultural heritage

Synthesis, investigation and application of lanthanide doped garnets

Hybrid surface formation by plasma polymerization

RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2015

Projects Supported by University Budget

New Functional Materials and Chemical Compounds: Synthesis, Self-Order and Investigation of Properties:

Synthesis of Functional Oxide Films and Heteroepitaxial Structures by MOCVD (Metalorganic Chemical Vapour Deposition).  Prof. A. Abrutis. 2011–2020. 

Synthesis and Characterization of Polycrystalline and Amorphous Materials. Prof. A. Beganskienė, Prof. A. Kareiva, Prof. J. Barkauskas. 2011–2020.

Films of LiNbO3 were deposited by Metal-organic chemical vapour deposition (MOCVD) technique and their properties were studied. New sol-gel methods for the preparation of calcium phosphate/hydroxyapatite thin films on different substrates using dip- and spin-coating techniques have been developed. An amorphous CHAp was prepared by the modified sol-gel processing route. New ceramic pigments have been synthesized using an environmentally benign aqueous sol-gel chemistry technique. 

Main publications:

Bartasyte, A., Plausinaitiene, V., Abrutis, A., Stanionyte, S., Margueron, S., Kubilius, V., Boulet, P., Huband, S., Thomas, P. A. 2015. Thickness dependent stress and thermal expansion of epitaxial LiNbO3 films on c-sapphire. Materials Chemistry and Physics, vol. 149, p. 622–631.

Butkute, S., Zabiliute, A., Skaudzius, R., Vitta, P., Beganskiene, A., Zukauskas A., Kareiva, A. 2015. Sol-gel synthesis, characterization and study of substitution effects in different gallium containing garnets. J. Sol-Gel Sci. Technol., vol. 76, p. 210–219.

Bogdanoviciene, I., Cepenko, M., Traksmaa, R., Kareiva A., Tõnsuaadu, K. 2015. Formation of Ca-Zn-Na phosphate bioceramic material in thermal processing of EDTA sol-gel precursor. J. Therm. Anal. Calorim., vol. 121, p. 107–114.

National Research Projects

Research Council of Lithuania. Transparent Conducting Oxide Films for Applications in UV and IR Optoelectronics (MIP-023/2013). Prof. A. Abrutis. 2013–2015.

Transparent in UV-Vis-MIR ranges and conducting oxide films (TCO), based on doped ZnO and Ga2O3, were grown by low pressure Hot-Wire MOCVD and by atmospheric pressure MOCVD techniques, and their structural, electrical and optical properties were investigated. 

Main publications:

Abrutis, A., Silimavicius, L., Kubilius, V., Murauskas, T., Saltyte, Z., Plausinaitiene, V. 2015.  Doped zinc oxide films grown by hot-wire chemical vapour deposition. Thin Solid Films, 576.

Kuprenaite, S., Murauskas, T., Abrutis, A., Kubilius, V., Saltyte, Z., Plausinaitiene, V. 2015. Properties of In-, Ga-, and Al-doped ZnO films grown by aerosol-assisted MOCVD: Influence of deposition temperature, doping level and annealing. Surface and Coatings Technology, vol. 271, p. 156–164.

Martens, A., Margueron, S., Genty, F., Kuprenaite, S., Abrutis, A., Legrani, O. 2015. Elaboration of In2O3-ZnO thin films for mid-infrared transparent electrode applications. Journal of Nanoelectronics and Optoelectronics, vol. 10/3, p. 295–300. 

Lithuania-Japan Cooperation project: Fabrication of Low Crystalline Calcium Phosphate and its Initial in Vivo Evaluation for Artificial Bone Substitutes with Higher Osteoconductivity (KALFOS) (LJB-2/2015). 2015–2017.

Highly crystalline and single-phase CHAp powders were successfully synthesized through the sol-gel synthesis route using seashells from different seashores of the Baltic Sea as calcium source.

European Social Fund under National Integrated Programme Biotechnology and Biopharmacy (BIOTEFA) (MITA (VP1-3.1-SMM- 08-K01-005). Prof. J. Barkauskas. 2012–2015.

Preparation of coatings for enzyme immobilization. Use of nanocompozite prepared of thermally reduced graphene oxide for the preparation of a biosensor for determination of D-fuctoze and other nutrients as well as products of metabolism.

Main publications:

Razumiene, J., Sakinyte, I., Barkauskas, J., Baronas, R. 2015. Nanostructured carbon materials for improved biosensing applications. Applied Surface Science, vol. 334, 185–191.

Šakinytė, I., Barkauskas, J., Gaidukevič, J., Razumienė J. 2015. Thermally reduced graphene oxide: the study and use for reagentless amperometric D-fructose biosensors. Talanta, vol. 144, p. 1096–1103.

Research Council of Lithuania. National Program Healthy Ageing (SEN-15095). Non-Invasive Glucose Sensor. Prof. J. Barkauskas. 2015–2017.

Preparation of flexible coatings on the polymer substrate for the application biosensor electrodes for glucose getermionation in vivo.

Dr. Bronislovas Lubys Charity and Support Foundation. Formation of Hydrophobic Coatings by Plasma Polymerization. Dr. R. Skaudžius. 2015–2016.

Preparation of hydrophobic surfaces on cheap raw material for sorbent application.

International Research Projects

COST project: Rational Design of Hybrid Organic-Inorganic Interfaces: the Next Step towards Advanced Functional Materials (Action MP1202). Prof. A. Kareiva. 2012–2016.

Eu3+-doped holmium aluminium garnet (Ho3Al5O12, HoAG) has been synthesized by solvothermal method and annealed at various temperatures. 

Main publication:

Pavasaryte, L., Lopez, B. J., Kareiva. A. 2015. Solvothermal synthesis of Eu3+- doped holmium aluminium garnet. Mendeleev Commun., vol. 25, p. 384–385.

Horizon 2020 Msca-Rise-2014: Marie Skłodowska-Curie Research and Innovation Staff Exchange (RISE) Project: TUMOCS: TU Neable Multiferroics Based on Oxygen Octahedral Structures. Prof. A. Kareiva. 2014–2018.

The Mg/Al/Bi HTC type compounds with different magnesium and aluminium substitution level by bismuth were synthesized via novel alkoxy-free sol-gel and co-precipitation (low super saturation) methods.

COST action CM1302: European Network on Smart Inorganic Polymers. Prof. J. Barkauskas. 2013–2017.

Funded EU project: Synthesis and Spectral Characterization in Wide Spectral Range of Novel Materials Relevant to Semiconductor- and Na–no-Technologies by Means of Steady and Ultrafast Spectrometry (VP1-3.1-SMM-08-K-01-004). Prof. A. Beganskienė. 2012–2015.

Participation and Activity in International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Regional project: Extending and Diversifying the Application of Nuclear Technology in Cultural Heritage. (RER/0/039). Prof. A. Beganskienė. 2014–2015.

Contractual Research

Contractual project: Pulsed Liquid Injection System for MOCVD Depositions, ordered by CNRS-FEMTO-ST, Besancon, France.

MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION) PARTNERS

University of Franche-Comté, FEMTO-ST Institute, Besancon (France)

Universite de Loraine, Supelec, Labor. Materiaux Optiques, Photonique et Systemes, Metz (France)

Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (Lithuania)

Inst Semicond Phys, Ctr Phys Sci & Technol

Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Masaryk University, Brno (Czech Republic)

Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Tallinn University of Technology (Estonia)

Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Charles University of Prague (Czech Republic)

Department of Chemistry, University of Applied Sciences, Muenster (Germany)

Paul Scherrer Institut, FEMTO-SLS, Villigen (Switzerland)

Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology, Vilnius (Lithuania)

National Taipei University of Technology (Taipei Tech) (Taiwan, R.O.C.)

University of Latvia, Riga (Latvia)

OTHER SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITIES

Prof. A. Kareiva –

  • member of Lithuanian Academy of Sciences;
  • deputy Editor of the journal Chemija (Chemistry);
  • member of Council of Alytus College;
  • chairman of Chemistry Section of Lithuanian Academy of Sciences;
  • deputy Chairman of the Department of Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry of Lithuanian Academy of Sciences;
  • member of Scientific Council of Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology;
  • editorial board member of the journal Materials Science (Medžiagotyra);
  • visiting guest lecturer at Abant Izzet Baysal University, Bolu (Turkey).

Prof. A. Beganskienė –

  • participation and activity in the project Baltic Sea Research Network NanoPhoto (2014–2016). 

DEPARTMENT OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY

24 Naugarduko, LT-03225 Vilnius
Tel. 219 3197, fax 233 0987
E-mail:

Head - Prof. Habil. Dr. Sigitas Tumkevičius

STAFF

Professors: Habil. Dr. E. Butkus (part-time), Dr. I. Čikotienė, Dr. V. Masevicius (part-time), Habil. Dr. S. Tumkevičius, Dr. A. Zilinskas (part-time).
Professor Emeritus: Habil. Dr. P. Vainilavičius.
Associate professors: Dr. A. Brukštus, Dr. M. M. Burbulienė (part-time), Dr. V. Jakubkienė (part-time), Dr. E. Orentas (part-time), Dr. S. Stončius (part-time).
Lecturers: Dr. J. Bucevicius (part-time), Dr. J. Dodonova.
Research fellows: Habil. Dr. E. Butkus (part-time), Dr. A. Zilinskas (part-time), Dr. V. Masevičius (part-time), Dr. M. M. Burbulienė (part-time), Dr. V. Jakubkienė (part-time), Dr. R. Buksnaitiene.
Doctoral students: J. Bucevičius (part-time), T. Javorskis, I. Karpavičienė (part-time), K. Karpavičius, M. Jonusis (part-time), M. Nainyte (part-time), A. Neniskis (part-time), D. Račkauskaitė (part-time), R. Rimkus, A. Urbanaite, R. V. Urbonas (part-time). 

RESEARCH INTERESTS

Metal-catalyzed organic reactions

Heterocyclic chemistry

Design, synthesis and transformations of novel nitrogen, oxygen and/or sulphur heterocycles, their functional derivatives and structural analogs of natural compounds

Design, synthesis and characterization of AdoMet analogues

Enantioselective synthesis of polycyclic molecules

Organocatalysts for asymmetric synthesis

Chiroptical properties

Self-assembly of organic molecules

Synthesis of supramolecular structures based on chiral bicyclic frameworks fused with heteroaromatic fragments

Light-emitting organic materials

Charge-transporting organic materials

Biological activity of organic compounds

Crystal engineering

X-ray diffraction

NMR, FTIR, Raman, UV, CD spectroscopy of organic compounds

Quantum chemical methods

RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2015

Projects Supported by University Budget

Synthesis of Functional Heteroaromatic Materials and Investigation of their Optical and Biological Properties. Prof. S. Tumkevičius. 2014–2020.

A series of nonlinear oligoarylenes with a pyrimidine unit as central core and carbazole containing aryl branches in positions 2, 4 and 4, 6 of the pyrimidine ring were successfully synthesized by sequential Suzuki coupling of the corresponding 2,4- or 4,6-dichloropyrimidines. Optical properties of the compounds were thoroughly investigated in the media of different polarity. 

Main publications:

Skardziute, L., Dodonova, J., Voitechovicius, A., Jovaisaite, J., Komskis, R., Voitechoviciute, A., Bucevicius, J., Kazlauskas, K., Jursenas, S., Tumkevicius, S. 2015. Synthesis and optical properties of the isomeric pyrimidine and carbazole derivatives: effects of polar substituents and linking topology. Dyes Pigm., vol. 118, p. 118–128.

Burbulienė, M. M., Mažeikaitė, R., Rekovič, L., Vainilavičius, P. 2015. Quinazoline-4-thiones: formation and reaction with hydrazine hidrate. Chemija, vol. 26, nr. 4, p. 254–260.

Development of New Organic Synthetic Methods. Prof. I. Čikotienė. 2015–2020.

Electrophilic cyclization of N-(3-arylprop-2-ynyl)amides to functionalized 4H-1,3-oxazines was described. It was shown that cyclization of propargylic amides can be mediated by electrophilic reagents, such as NIS, phenyl hypochloroselenoite or 1-methoxyisochroman. The presence of an electron-rich aryl group next to triple bond is crucial for smooth and highly regioselective 6-endo-dig cyclization reaction. It was also showed that regioselectivity can be lost or even switched when triple bond is not sufficiently activated.

Main publication:

Bukšnaitienė, R., Čikotienė I. 2015. Electrophile-promoted cyclization of propargylic amides. Synlett, vol. 26, p. 479–483.

Synthesis and Investigation of Novel Heterocycles Fused with Fragments of Bridge-Head Hydrocarbons. Prof. A. Zilinskas. 2014–2020.

Novel derivatives of quinoline, naphthyridine and phenanthroline fused with bicyclo[3.3.1]nonane, bicyclo[3.2.1]octane and bicyclo[2.2.1]heptane fragments were synthesized and their photophysical properties investigated.

Research on Synthesis and Functionalization of Pyrimidine Based Heterocyclic Compounds. Heterocyclization Reactions. Prof. V. Masevicius. 2015–2020.

A new protocol was developed for the synthesis of furo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives based on two step pyrimidin-4-one reactions with bifunctional electrophiles, this protocol includes functionalization of 2,4,5,6 positions of furo[2,3-d]pyrimidine as well as introduction of arylaminomethyl moiety to 5-th position of this heterocycle.

Main publication:

Petraitytė, G., Masevičius, V. 2015. Synthesis of (5-arylaminomethyl)furo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives and cytotoxicity evaluation against some human solid tumor cell lines. Chemija, vol. 26, p. 219–232.

Synthesis of Chiral Difuntionalized C2-Symmetric Bicyclo[3.3.1]Nonanes, Fused with Pyridine And 2,2‘-Bipyridine N-Oxides and their Application in the Asymmetric Reactions of Chlorosilanes. Assoc. Prof. Dr. S. Stoncius. 2015–2020.

New C2-symmetric 4,8-endo,endo-disubstituted bicyclo[3.3.1]nona-2,6-diene ligands have been designed.

Main publication:

Neniškis, A., Stončius, S. 2015. Enantioselective ring opening of meso-epoxides with silicon tetrachloride catalyzed by pyridine N-oxides fused with the bicyclo[3.3.1]nonane framework. Eur. J. Org. Chem., p. 6359–6369.

Supramolecular Chemistry in the Design of Functional Materials.  Search for Novel Photochemical Reactions and their Application in Synthesis. Assoc. Prof. E. Orentas. 2015–2020.

The assembly of a discrete hydrogen-bonded molecular tube from eight small identical monomers was found. Tube assembly was accomplished by means of selective heterodimerization between isocytosine and ureidopyrimidinone hydrogen-bonding motifs embedded in an enantiopure bicyclic building block, leading to the selective formation of an octameric supramolecular tube.

Main publication:

Račkauskaitė, D., Gegevičius, R., Matsuo, Y., Wärnmark, K., Orentas, E. 2015. An enantiopure hydrogen-bonded octameric tube: self-sorting and guest-induced rearrangement. Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., doi: 10.1002/ange.201508362.

National Research Projects

Research Council of Lithuania. Novel Functional Pyrrolopyrimidines: Synthesis and Photophysical Properties (MIP-027/2013). Prof. S. Tumkevicius. 2013–2015.

A comparative study of the palladium-catalyzed alkynylation reaction of 2,4-dichloropyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine using arylethynes and (arylethynyl)tributylstannanes has proved that introduction of alkynyl moieties into position 4 of the pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine can be achieved by both, Sonogashira and Stille reactions, whereas Stille coupling appeared to be the most suitable process to introduce aryl and alkynyl moieties into position 2 of the heterocycle. 2,4-Bis(4-aryl-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines as D-π-A-π-D chromophores were successfully prepared by CuAAC reaction of 2,4-diazido-7-methylpyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine with ethynylarenes.  Owing to electron-withdrawing properties of pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine core extending to triazole moieties the compounds with electron-donating groups showed expressed intramolecular charge transfer character (ICT) of the excited states which was proved by solvatochromic dynamics and supported by DFT calculations.

Main publications:

Bucevicius, J., Skardziute, L., Dodonova, J., Kazlauskas, K., Bagdziunas, G., Jursenas, S., Tumkevicius, S. 2015. 2,4-Bis(4-aryl-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines: synthesis and tuning of optical properties by polar substituents. RSC Adv, vol. 5, p. 38610–38622.

Bucevicius, J., Tumkevicius, S. 2015. Regioselective synthesis of 2-Aryl-4-(arylethynyl)- and 2,4-Bis(arylethynyl)pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines. Synthesis (Stuttgart), vol. 47, No. 14, p. 2100–2112.

Bucevicius, J., Tumkevicius, S. 2015. Efficient synthesis of (Arylethynyl)pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines by Stille coupling. Synlett, vol. 26, p. 810–814.

Research Council of Lithuania. Study on Cyclizations and Rearrangements of Functionalized Propargylic Substrates (No. MIP-15016). Prof. I. Čikotienė. 2015.

Metal-free halogen-, chalcogen- or oxocarbenium ion mediated yne-carbonyl or yne-thioxo transformations of various N- and O-propargylic compounds have been studied. This investigation provides economic and effective methods for the synthesis of functionalized 4H-1,3-oxazines, 4H-1,3-thiazines, 4,5-dihydrothiazoles and α-substituted enones. The structure of propargylic substrate and the nature of electrophile influence the outcome and regioselectivity of processes.

Main publication:

Urbanaitė, A., Jonušis, M., Bukšnaitienė, R., Balkaitis S., Čikotienė, I. 2015. Electrophile-mediated reactions of functionalized propargylic substrates. Eur. J. Org. Chem., p. 7091–7113.

Research Council of Lithuania. Synthesis of Chiral Synthons and Application in Supramolecular Chemistry and Organocatalysis (Global Grant project no. VP1-3.1-šmm-07-k-01-030). Dr. S. Stončius. 2011–2015.

Chiral Lewis basic organocatalysts containing pyridine N-oxide moieties fused with bicyclo[3.3.1]nonane framework have been synthesized and used in the enantioselective ring opening of alicyclic meso-epoxides with SiCl4 (47–96% ee). The developed dienes exhibited excellent catalytic activity and high enantioselectivity (up to 96% ee) in Rh-catalyzed 1,4-addition reaction of arylboronic acids to cyclic enones.

Main publications:

Stončius, S., Neniškis, A., Loganathan, N., Wendt, O. F. 2015. Synthesis, molecular structure, and chiroptical properties of dibenzylidene derivatives of bicyclo[3.3.1]nonane and brexane. Chirality, vol. 27, p. 728–737.

Rimkus, R., Jurgelėnas, M., Stončius, S. 2015. 4,8-disubstituted bicyclo[3.3.1]nona-2,6-dienes as chiral ligands for Rh-catalyzed asymmetric 1,4-addition reactions. Eur. J. Org. Chem., 3017–3021.

Two Channel Photosystem Based on Tubular Supramolecular Polymer. Global Grant Project No. VP1-3.1-ŠMM-07-K-03-007. Dr. E. Orentas. 2013–2015.

The formation of an unprecedented decameric capsule in carbon disulfide, held together by the combination of double and triple hydrogen bonds between isocytosine units embedded in an enantiomerically pure bicyclic framework was disclosed. The aggregation was shown to occur via symmetry breaking of the enantiopure intrinsically C2-symmetric monomer brought about by solvent, induced tautomerization of the hydrogen-bonding unit.

Main publication:

Račkauskaitė, D., Bergquist, K.-E., Sundin, A., Butkus, E., Wärnmark, K., Orentas. E. 2015. A remarkably complex supramolecular hydrogen-bonded decameric capsule from an enantiopure C2-symmetric monomer by solvent-responsive aggregation. J. Am. Chem. Soc., vol. 137, p. 10536–10546.

Research Council of Lithuania. An Integrated Discovery of Novel Anti-Cancer Compounds: from Fundamental Research to Purposeful Modeling and Synthesis. (Global Grant Project Nr. VP1-3.1-ŠMM-07-K-01-002). Prof. I. Čikotienė. 2011–2015.

A series of α-branched α,β-unsaturated ketones were prepared via boron trifluoride etherate mediated reaction between arylalkynes and carboxaldehydes. The evaluation of the antiproliferative activity over hematological (NB4) and solid cancer (A549, MCF-7) cell lines provided a structure-activity relationship. 5-Parameter QSAR equations were built which were able to explain 80% to 92% of the variance in activity. The resulting selective lead compound showed IC50 value 0.6 µM against the hematological cell line and did not cause apoptosis, but blocked cell cycle in G0/G1. Moreover, it was demonstrated that this compound enhances and accelerates retinoic acid induced granulocytic differentiation.

Main publication:

Karpavičienė, I., Valiulienė, G., Raškevičius, V., Lebedytė, I., Brukštus, A., Kairys, V., Navakauskienė, R., Čikotienė, I. 2015. Synthesis and antiproliferative activity of α-branched α,β-unsaturated ketones in human hematological and solid cancer cell lines. Eur. J. Med. Chem., vol. 98, p. 30–48.

Research Council of Lithuania. Design of Perspective Materials for Application as Semiconductors and in Nano-Technologies and their Characterization by Methods of Steady State and Ultrafast Spectroscopy in a Wide Spectral Range. (No. VP1-3.1-ŠMM-08-K-01-004/KS-120000-1756). Prof. S. Tumkevičius. 2012–2015.

An efficient synthesis of highly luminescent

2-chloroquinoline-3-carbaldehydes, tetrazolo[1,5‑a]quinoline-4-carbaldehydes, 3-formyl-2-[(triphenylphosphor-anylidene)amino]quinolines and 2-aminoquinoline-3-carbaldehydes was carried out. Values of HOMO, LUMO energy levels together with optical band gap, Stokes’ shift, differences between PL spectra in thin film and chloroform solution and solvatochromism were investigated.

Main publication:

Višniakova, S., Urbanavičiūtė, I., Daukšaitė, L., Janulevičius, M., Lenkevičiūtė, B., Sychugov, I., Arlauskas, K., Žilinskas, A. 2015. Luminescent benzo- and naphthoquinolines: synthesis and investigation of photophysical properties. Journal of Luminescence, vol. 167, p. 261–267.

International Research Projects

Research Council of Lithuania. Taiwan – Latvia – Lithuania Cooperation project: Synthesis of Novel (Deaza)Purine-Triazole Conjugates and Applications of their Fluorescent Properties (Project No. TAP LLT-01/2015). Prof. S. Tumkevicius. 2015–2017.

2,4-Diazido-7-deazapurines were synthesized and their ring–chain tautomerism was investigated. The synthesized diazides were shown to exist as diazide (major) and 5-azidopyrrolo[3,2-e]tetrazolo[1,5-c]pyrimidine (minor) tautomers. Experimental data were supported by DFT/GIAO calculations. In solution, proportion of the tetrazole tautomer increases with the increase of solvent polarity. Cu(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition reaction of the synthesized 2,4-diazido-7-deazapurines with several arylethynes was investigated. Novel 2,4-bis(4-aryl-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)-7-deazapurines were synthesized and characterized.

Main publication:

Bucevicius, J., Tumkevicius, S. 2015. 2,4-Diazidopyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines: synthesis, ring ˗ chain tautomerism and Cu(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition reaction. Chemija, vol. 26, N 2, p. 126–131.

MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION) PARTNERS

Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (Lithuania)
Lund University (Sweden)

La Laguna University (Spain)

Jyvaskyla University (Finland)

d’Artois University (France)

OTHER SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITIES

Prof. E. Butkus –

  • editor of the international journal Central European Journal of Chemistry (Organic chemistry section);
  • editorial board member of the journal Chemija (Chemistry);
  • member of the EU program committee of the FP7 Ideas program;
  • member of the Lithuanian Academy of Sciences.

Dr. J. Dodonova –

  • secretary of the organizing committee of the international conference of Lithuanian Chemical Society Chemistry and Chemical Technology 2015 dedicated to Professor Vitas Dauksas on his 80th birth anniversary.

Prof. S. Tumkevičius –

  • editorial board member of the journal Chemija (Chemistry);
  • chairman of the organizing committee of the international conference of Lithuanian Chemical Society Chemistry and Chemical Technology 2015 dedicated to Professor Vitas Dauksas on his 80th birth anniversary.

DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY

24 Naugarduko, LT-03225 Vilnius
Tel. 219 3185, fax 233 0987
E-mail:

Head - Prof. Habil. Dr. Arūnas Ramanavičius

STAFF

Professors: Dr. H. Cesiulis, Habil. Dr. A. Malinauskas (part-time), Habil. Dr. R. Ramanauskas (part-time), Habil. Dr. A. Ramanavičius.
Associate professors: Dr. D. Plaušinaitis, Dr. A. Valiūnienė, Dr. R. Valiūnas (part-time).
Lecturer: Dr. I. Balevičiūtė
Junior research fellow: A. Nicolenco.
Research fellows: Dr. D. Plaušinaitis (part-time), Habil. Dr. A. Ramanavičius (part-time).
Doctoral students: E. Vernickaitė, L. Pukaitė, L. Dedelaitė, I. Vilkončienė, A. Rekertaitė, P. Genys, L. Sinkevičius.

RESEARCH INTERESTS

Electrooxidation of cyanides

Synthesis and application of nanoparticles

Investigation of the electrodeposition and properties of obtained tungsten- and molybdenum-containing alloys

Electrochemical treatment of titanium, tungsten

Photoelectrochemistry

Biosensors,

Biofuel cells,

Bioelectrochemistry,

Scanning electrochemical microscopy,

Ellipsometry

Surface plasmon resonance

RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2014

Projects Supported by University Budget

Investigation of the Interfacial Processes.  Prof. H. Cesiulis. 2011–2015.

Decontamination of highly concentrated cyanide solutions by the method of electrochemical oxidation is presented in this work. The kinetics of electrochemical reaction of cyanide oxidation was investigated by voltammetry and fast Fourier transform electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The kinetic parameters of cyanide ion electrooxidation reaction are determined and the mechanism of anodic reaction is suggested by considering the analysis of EIS data.

Main publications:

Valiuniene, A., Margarian, Z., Valiunas, R. 2015. Electrooxidation of cyanide ion on a platinized Ti electrode. Reaction kinetics mechanisms and catalysis, vol. 115, iss. 2, p. 449–461.

Maliar, T., Achanta, S., Cesiulis, H., Drees, D. 2015. Tribological behaviour of mineral and rapeseed oils containing iron particles. Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, vol. 67 iss. 4, p. 308–314.

Electrochemical Methods in Biosensor Design.  Prof. A. Ramanavičius.

Main publications:

Juknelevicius, D., Klapötke, T.M., Kubilius, R., Ramanavicius, A., Rusan, M. 2015. Copper (I) bromide, an alternative emitter for blue-colored flame pyrotechnics. Chemistry. European Journal, vol. 21, p. 15354–15359. 

Juknelevicius, D., Kubilius, R., Ramanavicius A. 2015. Oxidizer ratio and oxygen balance influence on emission spectra of green-coloured pyrotechnics flame. European Journal of Inorganic Chemistry, 5511–5515.

Plausinaitis, D., Ratautaite, V., Mikoliunaite, L., Sinkevicius, L., Ramanaviciene, A., Ramanavicius, A. 2015.  Quartz crystal microbalance based evaluation of electrochemical formation of aggregated polypyrrole particle based layer. Langmuir, vol. 31, p. 3186–3193.

National Research Projects

Lithuanian Research Council. Electrochemical Nanomaterials for Energy Conversion and Catalysis. Prof. A. Ramanavičius.2014–2016.

Tungsten anodization and photoelectrochemical properties of obtained layers were investigated. Rich in molybdenuym and tungsten alloys with Ni, Co and Fe were electrodeposited and electrocatalytic properties were investigated. This study shows the simple and unique method for barrier oxide thinning/removing by anodizing solution itself, in comparison with conventional procedure used.

Main publication:

Tsyntsaru, N. 2015. Removal of barrier oxide in the anodized aluminum oxide nanotemplates. IFMBE Proceedings 55, p. 123–126.

Lithuanian Research Council. Program ‘Healhy Aging’ Non-Invasive Glucose Sensor NIG-Sensor.  Prof. A. Ramanavičius. 2015–2017.

Non-invasive glucose sensor NIG-Sensor will be created by this project.

Lithuanian Research Council. Colaboration Program Lithuania – Belarus ’Development Of Enzymatic Biosensors’ (TAP LB 09/2013). Prof. A. Ramanavičius. 2013–2015.

Main publications:

Ramanavicius, A., Kausaite-MinkstimieVaitkune, A., Morkvenaite-Vilkonciene, I., Genys, P., Mikhailova, R., Semashko, T., Voronovic, J., Ramanaviciene, A. 2015. Biofuel cell based on glucose oxidase from Penicillium Funiculosum 46.1 and horseradish peroxidase. Chemical Engineering Journal, vol. 264, p. 165–173.  

Mikhailova, R., Semashko, T., Demeshko, O., Ramanaviciene, A., Ramanavicius, A. 2015. Effect of some redox mediators on FAD fluorescence of glucose oxidase from Penicillium Adametzii LF F-2044.1. Enzyme and Microbial Technology, vol. 72, p. 10–15.        

International Research Projects

COST action CM1101: Colloidal Aspects of Nanoscience for Innovative Processes and Materials. Prof. A. Ramanavičius.

This Action will combine coherently the outstanding European expertise in this field, including: theoretical modelling and experimental formation of functional and patterned interfaces; self-assembly of molecules and colloidal particles; synthesis and up-scaling of novel nano-colloidal and bio-colloidal materials; the kinetic and catalytic aspects of these novel materials; and their applications in chemical, pharmaceutical and food industries, as well as in nano-devices such as sensors, assays, photonics and bio-fuel cells. This includes many of the Grand Challenges in energy, health and environmental protection. The Action will provide a platform for coordination of national programs and will stimulate academia-industry cooperation.

Main publication:

Zor, E., Bingol, H., Ramanaviciene, A., Ramanavicius, A., Ersoz, M. 2015. An electrochemical and computational study for discrimination of d- and l-cystine by reduced graphene oxide/β-cyclodextrin. Analyst, vol. 140, p. 313–321.

Horizon 2020. Marie Sklodowska- Curie actions: Innovative Training Networks (ITN) (Call: H2020-MSCA-ITN-2014.) Prof. H. Cesiulis. 2015–2018.

A helpful way to prevent corrosion is to develop advanced materials with highly anti-corrosive properties. The electrodeposition is one of the most attractive methods for obtaining these materials. This work deals with evaluation of the tribological and corrosion behaviour of electrodeposited Fe-W and Fe-W-P alloys. The amorphous-like ternary Fe-W-P alloy coatings demonstrate higher wear and corrosion resistance and lower friction coefficient compared to binary Fe-W alloy coating.

Main publication:

Vernickaite, E., Antar, Z., Nicolenco, A., Kreivaitis, R., Tsyntsaru, N., Cesiulis, H. 2015.  Tribological and corrosion properties of iron-based alloys. Proceedings of BALTTRIB' 2015: International Conference Tb, 2015.

MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION) PARTNERS

Katholieke University Leuven (Belgium)
Northeastern University Boston (USA)
Institute of Applied Physics of NAS (Moldova)
Hasselt University (Belgium)
Selcuk University, Konya (Turkey)
Odesa University, Odesa (Ukraine)

DEPARTMENT OF POLYMER CHEMISTRY

24 Naugarduko, LT-03225 Vilnius
Tel. 219 3113, 219 3227, fax 233 0987
E-mail:

Head - Prof. Dr. Ričardas Makuška

STAFF

Professors: Dr. R. Makuška, Dr. S. Budrienė.
Associate professors: Dr. A. Vareikis, Dr. T. Kochanė, Dr. K. Radzevičius (part-time).
Research fellows: Dr. T. Krivorotova, Č. Višnevskij (part-time), A.Strakšys (part-time).
Doctoral students: A. Bočkuvienė, J. Jonikaitė-Švėgždienė, S. Mačiulytė, V. Klimkevičius, P. Radzevičius.

RESEARCH INTERESTS

Synthesis and modification of polymers
Living radical polymerization
Polyelectrolytes from natural and synthetic building blocks
Amphiphilic and charge-carrying brush polymers
Cationic polymers for gene transfection
Polymeric carriers for bioactive compounds
Immobilization of biocatalysts onto polymeric carriers
Encapsulation of hydrophilic and lipophilic materials within polymeric shells

RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2015

Projects Supported by University Budget

Synthesis and Study of Hydrophilic Polymers for Bio- and Nanotechnologies. Prof. R. Makuška. 2011–2015.

One-pot successive three-step RAFT polymerization of HEMA and BMA in the presence of difunctional RAFT CTA was done demonstrating successful synthesis of pentablock copolymers. Cationic brush copolymers were synthesized by RAFT, and adsorption of these polymers on titania nanoparticles was evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis, measurement of zeta potential, and DLS. MPEG’ylated derivatives of PHPI were synthesised by several methods and studied as carriers in siRNA transfection.

Main publications:

Liu, X., Dedinaite, A., Nylander, T., Dabkowska, A.P., Skoda, M., Makuska, R., Claesson, P.M. 2015. Association of anionic surfactant and physisorbed branched brush layers probed by neutron and optical reflectometry. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, 440, p. 245–252.

Klimkevicius, V., Graule, T., Makuska R. 2015. Effect of structure of cationic comb copolymers on their adsorption and stabilization of titania nanoparticles. Langmuir, vol. 31, p. 2074−2083.

Bockuviene, A., Vareikis, A., Makuska, R.  2015. Polycondensation of hydroxyl-group containing aliphatic diamines and dibromides yielding highly branched poly(2-hydroxypropylene imines). Chemija, vol. 66 (1), p. 51–59.

Synthesis and Modification of Polymers for Biotechnology. Prof. S. Budrienė. 2015–2018.

Immobilization of enzyme onto polyurethane microparticles modified with gold or silver nanoparticles was performed. The use of the modified carriers for immobilization of enzymes leads to the immobilized preparations with high enzymatic activity and good stability in time. The influence of reaction conditions on encapsulation of maltogenicα-amylase from Bacillus Stearothermophilus in poly(urethane-urea) microapsules was studied.

Main publication:

Maciulyte, S., Kochane, T., Budriene, S. 2015. Microencapsulation of maltogenic a-amylase in poly(urethane–urea) shell: inverse emulsion method. Journal of Microencapsulation, vol. 32 (6), p. 547–558.

National Research Projects

Research Council of Lithuania. Multiblock Polymers and their Brush Derivatives (No MIP-054/2015). Prof. R. Makuška. 2015–2018.

Anionic pentablock brush copolymers consisting of three brush blocks separated by linear blocks were synthesized and characterized by SEC with triple detection and 1H NMR spectroscopy. Phase transition and conformational behaviour of pentablock brush copolymers with short pAA side chains was studied by DLS and potentiometric titration.

Main publications:

Krivorotova, T., Radzevicius, P., Makuska, R. 2015. Synthesis and characterisation of anionic pentablock brush copolymers bearing poly(acrylic acid) side chains on the brush blocks separated by linear poly(butyl methacrylate) blocks. European Polymer Journal, vol. 66, p. 543–557.

Jonikaitė-Svėgzdiene, J., Krivorotova, T., Joskaudas, T., Makuska, R. 2015. Synthesis of multisegmented polymers by RAFT using linear polytrithiocarbonates. Chemija, vol. 66 (1), p. 60–68.

Research Council of Lithuania. Investigation of Encapsulation of Bacteriocins as Biopreservatives (No SVE-03/2014, project partner, executing institution VGTU). Prof. S. Budrienė. 2014–2015.

Nisin-pectin nanoparticles were prepared by complexation method. The influence of the degree of methoxylation of pectin on the nisin loading efficiency and particle size was investigated.

European Social Fund under National Integrated Programme Biotechnology and Biopharmacy. (Grant VP1-3.1-SMM-08-K01-005). Synthesis and Investigation of the Possibility of Applying of Organic and Inorganic Carriers and Matrices for Suitable Selected Biocatalyzators. Prof. S. Budrienė. 2012–2015.

Poly(urethane-urea) microparticles were synthesized from poly(vinyl alcohol) and various diisocyanates. The microparticles were used as polymeric carriers for covalent immobilization of enzymes. The properties of carriers and immobilized preparations were investigated.

Main publications:

Strakšys, A., Kochanė, T., Budrienė, S. 2015. Preparation and characterization of porous poly(urethane-urea) microparticles from poly(vinyl alcohol) and isophorone diisocyanate. Chemija, 26 (2), 132-140.

Research Council of Lithuania. Soft Tissue Engineering: from Cell to Artificial Tissue (No SEN-13/2015, project partner, executing institution VU, Institute of Biochemistry). Prof. S. Budrienė, Assoc. Prof. T. Kochanė. 2015-2018.

Modification of poly(dimethylsiloxane) with hydrophilic substances under appropriate reaction conditions was carried out.

Contractual Research

CC Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics. Chemical Modification of Agarose by Synthetic Ionogenic Oligomers. Prof. R. Makuška. 2015.

CC Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics. Synthesis and Study of the Copolymers of Dimethylacrylamide Designed for Capillary Electrophoresis of Proteins and Nucleic Acids. Prof. R. Makuška. 2015.

Center for Physical Sciences and Technology. Production of Plates from Devulcanized Rubber and Study of their Physical Mechanical Properties. Prof. R. Makuška. 2015. 

MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION) PARTNERS

Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics (Lithuania)
Institute of Biochemistry, Vilnius University (Lithuania)
Royal Institute of Technology (Sweden)
Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology (Lithuania)
Swiss Federal Laboratories for Material Science and Technology (Switzerland) 

OTHER SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITIES 

Prof. R. Makuška –

  • member of the Lithuanian Academy of Sciences;
  • member of the Scientific committee of the international conference Baltic Polymer Symposium 2015;
  • editorial board member of the journal Chemija (Chemistry).