From 19 September to 18 October 2026, Dr. Volodymyr Deineka, a researcher at the University of Latvia, completed a research secondment at BIOFABICS LDA in Porto, Portugal, within the framework of the Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Staff Exchanges project ESCULAPE (Grant Agreement No. 101131147).
The research activities focused on optimising microfluidic organ-on-a-chip platforms for dynamic cell culture and investigating the integration of two-dimensional MXene nanomaterials into biomedical systems. Particular attention was given to MXene surface functionalisation, microfluidic device sterilisation, flow stability, and the evaluation of material biocompatibility under continuous perfusion conditions. The research also addressed experimental approaches for assessing cell viability and barrier function in microfluidic systems.
During the visit, Dr. Deineka also participated in the international Graphene Week 2026 conference (21-25 September, Porto), where he presented research findings on two-dimensional nanomaterials and their biomedical applications and established new contacts for future scientific collaborations.
The secondment contributed to knowledge exchange between the University of Latvia and BIOFABICS, supporting the further development of advanced biomaterial-based platforms for biomedical research and tissue engineering.
From 9 September to 8 October 2026, Irfan Hanif, a PhD student at Adam Mickiewicz University (Poland), spent one month at BIOFABICS 3D Biotissue Analogues (Portugal). He went there to learn how bioreactor chambers and organ on chip systems are designed and fabricated by high resolution stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing.
His work at the host company centred on customised microfluidic platforms for controlled in vitro testing of electrospun nanofiber scaffolds, with cardiac and neural tissue engineering as the target applications. The geometry of the microfluidic channels and chambers, together with the fabrication parameters, was refined over several design iterations. Each printed prototype was assessed for fluid flow behaviour, scaffold integration, sealing performance and overall stability, and comparing alternative chamber configurations made it possible to select the designs most suitable for further use.
From August 29 to September 12, 2026, Dr. Viktorija Liustrovaite visited NanoBioMedical Center, AMU in Poznan, Poland.
During the secondment, work focused on the preparation and electrochemical characterisation of Ti3C2TX MXene-modified screen-printed carbon electrodes. The study examined how varying polydopamine deposition time affected electrode properties, finding that a longer deposition time produced a thicker layer with lower current responses and higher charge-transfer resistance. Electrochemical measurements using cyclic voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry, square-wave voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were performed to compare these responses. Practical training covered the functionalisation of Ti3C2TX MXene-modified electrodes and the immobilisation of proteins and antibodies. Liustrovaite gained hands-on experience in preparing electrodes under different modification conditions, monitoring changes during surface functionalisation, and selecting suitable parameters for subsequent biofunctionalisation. The results will support the continued development of electrochemical immunosensors at Vilnius University and inform future optimisation of PDA modification conditions and antibody-antigen interfaces.
From August 29 to September 12, 2026, Dr. Benediktas Brasiūnas visited NanoBioMedical Center, AMU in Poznan, Poland.
The secondee researched electrochemical MXene-polydopamine immunosensors, focusing on PDA layer stability, antibody immobilisation, and antigen binding kinetics. After modifying screen-printed electrodes with Ti3C2TX MXenes via drop-casting and chemically growing a PDA layer, stability was assessed using cyclic voltammetry, square wave voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Fast electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was used to characterise antibody and antigen binding kinetics.
Throughout the visit, Dr. Benediktas Brasiūnas gained expertise in synthesizing PDA to minimize oxidative damage to the underlying MXene layer. The work explored biosensor design strategies and transferred knowledge regarding fast electrochemical impedance spectroscopy for antibody immobilisation and antigen binding analysis to the hosting institution.
The results provide a clearer understanding of screen-printed carbon electrode and MXene-PDA composite layer compatibility. Fast EIS studies offer valuable insights for improving biosensor design, particularly for evaluating antibody-antigen binding dynamics. Optimised MXene-PDA based electrochemical analytical systems show promise for developing robust immunosensors
From 1 to 31 August, Anastasiia Haidai, laboratory assistant from University of Latvia, carried out a secondment at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poland. The secondment was focused on the MXene-antibody complexes structural characterization for further biomedical application. During the secondment, Anastasiia obtained knowledge and skills in advanced materials characterisation techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). These methods allow to analyse MXene-antibody complexes morphology - how the antibodies attached to the nanoparticles and the thickness of the MXene's sheets with antibody layer. Secondment obtained results allowed us to understand MXene-antibody complex structure better. Moreover, Anastasiia acquired valuable knowledge and skills for further research in MXene characterisation
Following her stay in Poland, Klara Kuzņecova from the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI, Latvia) continued her ESCULAPE mobility at Biofabics Lda (Portugal) from 29 July to 28 August 2026. While her previous secondment concerned the fabrication and characterisation of MXene textile electrodes, this visit turned to biological validation methods that will be needed for future testing of MXene electrodes and other conductive biomaterials developed in the project.
The first days were devoted to laboratory onboarding, safety induction and an introduction to the organ on chip platforms of the host company. Step by step training then followed in aseptic technique and in the culture of H9c2 cardiomyoblasts, including routine passaging, cell counting and viability assessment. Working under supervision on standard tissue culture plastic, she applied these protocols in practice and confirmed their reproducibility.
In the next stage, she assisted in 3D cell seeding on polymeric scaffolds based on PCL and PLA that are routinely used at Biofabics, first observing and then taking part in scaffold preparation, cell seeding and qualitative assessment of cell adhesion by phase contrast microscopy. She was also introduced to impedance-based monitoring, learning the calibration of the impedance analyser and electrode placement procedures.
From July 25 to August 24, 2026, PhD student Katazyna Blazevic visited BIOFABICS Lda. in Porto, Portugal.
The purpose of the secondment was the development and investigation of MXene-based materials for electrochemical applications, with a focus on the preparation of MXenes and MXene-based nanocomposites and the optimisation of their electrochemical performance.
During the secondment, Katazyna Blazevic worked on the preparation of MXene-based working electrodes and investigated different experimental conditions affecting their stability, reproducibility and electrochemical response. The prepared electrodes were characterised using cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, linear sweep voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.
Different preparation and measurement conditions were compared in order to evaluate their influence on the electrochemical performance of the MXene-based electrodes and to identify the most promising experimental conditions.
The secondment contributed to a better understanding of the electrochemical properties of MXene-based materials and their potential application in electrochemical system.
From 01.07.2026 to 15.07.2026, Kristina Sobol carried out her second secondment at the University of Latvia, focusing on the optimisation and functionalisation of MXene-based bioconjugates for biomedical applications. The secondment followed the protocol established during the initial visit, involving the surface modification of MXenes using polydopamine (PDA), followed by the immobilisation of antibodies to develop targeted bioconjugates. However, during this secondment, antibodies against E. coli were immobilised on the surface of PDA-modified MXenes. The prepared MXene-based bioconjugates were characterised using UV–Vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and complementary analytical techniques.
The main objective of this secondment was to compare bioconjugates specific to E. coli bacteria with bioconjugates targeting Staphylococcus bacteria, which had been prepared and analysed during the first secondment. Photothermal testing of the developed system was performed using a laser irradiation, including evaluation under in vitro conditions.
The visit also included participation in interdisciplinary experiments involving the assessment of bacterial growth and activity. The secondment provided valuable knowledge and practical experience that will enable the preparation of these bioconjugates at the home institution in the future. This will allow their following analysis using surface plasmon resonance, enabling a more comprehensive characterisation of the developed bioconjugates.
Maksim Makhavikou from Adam Mickiewicz University (Poland) carried out a one-month research secondment at RESPILON Membranes s.r.o. (Czech Republic) from 29 June to 28 July 2026. The aim of the visit was to become familiar with the nanofiber technologies of the host company and to apply this knowledge to polymer/MXene systems.
During the secondment, he studied the industrial manufacturing of nanofibers, including the selection of optimal formulations with respect to solution composition, viscosity and processing conditions. Pilot batches of membranes incorporating MXene were prepared using the large-scale spinning equipment of the host. These experiments made it possible to evaluate the behaviour of selected polymer/MXene combinations during continuous processing and to identify promising compositions for future functional 3D membrane architectures.
The training covered the optimisation of electrospinning processes for polymer/MXene systems, starting with an introduction to the equipment and procedures of the company and continuing with the preparation of polymer/MXene solutions, adjustment of composition and viscosity, and process optimisation. Special attention was paid to improving fiber uniformity and the stability and reproducibility of membranes during continuous processing, as well as to resolving common issues such as unstable spinning, non-uniform fiber formation, changes in solution behaviour and difficulties related to MXene dispersion.
Irfan Hanif, PhD student at Adam Mickiewicz University (Poland), carried out a one-month research secondment at RESPILON Membranes s.r.o. (Czech Republic) from 29 June to 28 July 2026, under the supervision of Matej Buzgo, Head of Nanofiber Production and Development. The aim of the visit was to develop expertise in the functionalisation and physicochemical characterisation of three-dimensional (3D) biomaterials based on MXene for advanced biomedical applications.
During the secondment, he worked on modifying membrane composition, microstructure and surface properties through the controlled incorporation of MXene within polymeric matrices. Particular attention was given to tailoring interfacial interactions and surface chemistry in order to improve electrical conductivity, mechanical stability, hydrophilicity and biocompatibility. Laboratory training covered the preparation of polymer/MXene materials with different compositions, approaches for controlling MXene distribution within the polymer matrix, procedures for modifying scaffold surface properties, and the structural and physicochemical characterisation of the resulting materials.
Dr Armands Ancāns, researcher at the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI, Latvia), spent one month at RESPILON Membranes s.r.o. (Czech Republic) from 28 June to 28 July 2026. His task was to assess whether RESPILON nanofiber substrates can serve as base materials for bioimpedance electrode patches. Commercially available conductive components were used at this stage to obtain reliable baseline measurements, against which MXene and graphene coatings will later be compared.
The work followed a four-week plan. After initial meetings to select candidate substrates, agree on sample quantities and coordinate access to equipment, agar and gelatine skin phantoms were fabricated and used for impedance measurements of the electrode samples over a range of frequencies. Signal quality and motion artifacts of the electrodes were then evaluated during various everyday activities. The final week was dedicated to mathematical analysis of the acquired data and to a technical report with conclusions on the suitability of the substrates for further integration with novel coatings.
Prof. Dr. Hab. Igor Iatsunskyi, team-leader of the ESCULAPE project at Adam Mickiewicz University (Poland), spent one month at the University of Latvia (Latvia) between 23 June and 22 July 2026. The visit was devoted to joint work on the development and characterisation of advanced biomaterials for biomedical applications, with a focus on electroconductive polymeric scaffolds, MXene materials and surface engineering approaches.
Together with researchers from the host institution, Prof. Iatsunskyi took part in laboratory work and discussions on material synthesis, functionalisation and physicochemical characterisation. Strategies for improving scaffold performance by incorporating functional nanomaterials, as well as ways to optimise fabrication protocols, were central topics of this cooperation. Joint experiments were also planned and recent research results evaluated.
Scientific meetings held at the host university gave an opportunity to present the current progress of ESCULAPE and to discuss experimental methodologies, material characterisation and future research directions. Prof. Iatsunskyi contributed his expertise in MXene materials, nanomaterial characterisation and surface engineering, while the host team shared its experience in biomaterial development, scaffold optimisation and biomedical evaluation strategies. Contacts with researchers from complementary disciplines further broadened the interdisciplinary scope of the collaboration.
Klara Kuzņecova from the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI, Latvia) carried out her secondment at the NanoBioMedical Centre of Adam Mickiewicz University (Poland) between 20 June and 28 July 2026. Her research addressed textile electrodes coated with Ti₃C₂Tₓ MXene for wearable bioimpedance sensors.
Three types of fabric substrates were prepared for this purpose: woven cotton, nonwoven PLA and electrospun PLA nanofibre mats. After oxygen plasma treatment, MXene was deposited on them by dip coating and spray coating, and the conductivity of the fabrics was followed as a function of the number of deposited layers. Coverage of the fibres by MXene flakes and coating thickness were examined by scanning electron microscopy with focused ion beam cross sectioning (SEM/FIB). Water contact angle measurements showed how wettability changed after plasma treatment and after MXene deposition, sheet resistance was determined with a four-point probe, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was performed on the electrodes in saline and on a skin phantom.
From June 12 to July 11, 2026, Dr. Benediktas Brasiūnas visited BIOFABICS Lda in Porto, Portugal.
The secondee’s research and work consisted of improving multiple different aspects of immunosensor design using Ti3C2Tx MXenes. Activities carried out during this period included evaluation of possibilities to integrate microfluidics for screen-printed electrode modification with MXenes, combined with an assessment of strategies designed to improve the stability and functional performance of the modified layers. This was evaluated using various electrochemical characterisation techniques such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and square wave voltammetry.
During the secondment, Dr. Benediktas Brasiūnas received training and gained additional knowledge about additive manufacturing capabilities for scientific research. The visit strengthened collaboration and obtained results will help to improve MXene-based immunosensing platforms
From June 12 to July 11, 2026, Viktorija Liustrovaite visited BIOFABICS Lda in Portugal. During the secondment, work focused on the development and optimisation of electrochemical biosensing platforms based on Ti3C2Tx MXene-modified screen-printed carbon electrodes. MXenes were deposited onto the electrode surface by drop-casting, followed by modification with a poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) layer containing -COOH groups suitable for antibody immobilisation using EDC-NHS chemistry.
Electrochemical characterisation was carried out using square wave voltammetry (SWV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to evaluate the MXene/PAA-modified electrodes and help optimise the sensing interface. Different PAA concentrations were tested to find suitable conditions for further immunosensor development.
Liustrovaite also received training in biofabrication, additive manufacturing, and microfluidic analytical systems, including additive manufacturing approaches relevant to the fabrication of biomedical and analytical devices. Particular attention was given to the possible integration of functional electrode materials, polymer-based interfaces, electrospun nanofibers, and biofunctionalised surfaces into microfluidic analytical systems. The experience gained will support the further development of MXene-based electrochemical immunosensors and their possible integration with microfluidic platforms at Vilnius University.
Between May 18 and June 1, 2026, University of Latvia researcher Karina Goluba completed a research secondment at BIOFABICS LDA in Portugal. This visit was conducted as part of the Horizon Europe ESCULAPE project to strengthen expertise in microfluidic technologies and their application in advanced biofabrication.
During the secondment, Karina Goluba focused on training in the design and operation of microfluidic systems, including organ-on-chip platforms and the precise control of fluid flow parameters. The work also involved the optimization and fabrication of advanced microfluidic chips with improved channel geometries and enhanced flow characteristics. In addition, the secondment explored the integration of MXene-based nanosheet scaffolds into microfluidic platforms to improve the functionality of bioengineered cell culture systems
From 08.04.2026 to 07.05.2026 Silvija Juciutė caried out a month-long secondment in Biofabics, Porto, Portugal. The main purpose of the secondment was to prepare MXenes solution and deposit it on glass substrates. During first weeks of secondment research of latest literature on MXene coating techniques was conducted. Insights from other researchers’ experience was applied for experimental work during secondment.
Firstly, experimental conditions for MXenes solutions’ preparations were determined. When MXenes solutions were prepared, they were functionalised with APTES. APTES allowed to insert functional groups in MXenes, which are required for successful coating of the glass substrate. To achieve proper coatings, functionalisation process with APTES was optimised – MXenes and APTES concentrations, reaction time and temperature was determined. When functionalisation was completed, I further proceeded with glass substrates coating. For coating procedure, membranes were utilised. MXenes solution was filtrated through membrane using pressure-assisted vacuum filtration. Process was optimised and desired membrane was transferred on glass substrates. Further, membrane was dissolved and MXenes layer was deposited on the surface. Prepared samples were taken back to home institution and will be further characterised and applied for biomedical purposes.
During all secondment, constant consultations and meetings with Biofabics colleagues were carried out. In addition, I participated in their internal meetings to broaden my knowledge about 3D printing technologies and microfluidic systems developments. Moreover, I attended seminars for electrospinning training. In return, I presented my experience with investigations of biomolecular interactions using optical (spectroscopic ellipsometry) and acoustic (quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation) methods.
Between March 9 and March 23, 2026, University of Latvia researchers Volodymyr Deineka and Martins Boroduskis completed a research secondment at BIOFABICS LDA in Portugal. This visit was conducted as part of the Horizon Europe ESCULAPE project to develop and test new methodologies in biofabrication and cell culture systems.
During the secondment, the researchers focused on distinct but complementary technological challenges:
• Volodymyr Deineka worked on developing a multi-channel chip system designed for the co-incubation of adherent and suspension cells.
• Martins Boroduskis focused on the extended functional evaluation of bioprinted scaffolds within a dynamic bioreactor environment. The work involved functionalising scaffold surfaces with extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins to optimize cell adhesion.
The practical outcomes of this visit include newly established protocols for cell-free prototype testing and optimized scaffold functionalization. The data and physical models generated at BIOFABICS LDA will be used directly in upcoming cell-based experiments and joint scientific publications, advancing the long-term research objectives of the ESCULAPE project.
From 16 April to 15 May, Dr Kateryna Diedkova from the University of Latvia conducted a research visit at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poland. The visit focused on the physico-chemical and structural characterization of electroconductive electrospun scaffolds with integrated MXenes for biomedical applications.
During the stay, Dr Diedkova gained hands-on training in advanced materials characterisation techniques, including atomic force microscopy (AFM) for nanoscale assessment of surface roughness, fibre architecture, and matrix phase distribution in electrospun polymer systems. She also worked with Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to analyse chemical structure, functional groups, and polymer-MXene interactions within composite scaffolds. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was applied to evaluate fibre morphology, diameter distribution, and porosity of the electrospun materials.
The integrated analysis of structural, surface, and chemical data enabled a comprehensive assessment of the impact of MXene incorporation on the integrity and functional performance of 3D electrospun polymer membranes intended for biomedical applications
From 2026-04-08 to 2026-05-07, Silvija Juciutė, caried out a month-long secondment in Biofabics, Porto, Portugal. The main purpose of the secondment was to prepare MXenes solution and deposit it on glass substrates. During first weeks of secondment research of latest literature on MXene coating techniques was conducted. Insights from other researchers’ experience was applied for experimental work during secondment.
Firstly, experimental conditions for MXenes solutions’ preparations were determined. When MXenes solutions were prepared, they were functionalized with APTES. APTES allowed to insert functional groups in MXenes, which are required for successful coating of the glass substrate. To achieve proper coatings, functionalization process with APTES was optimized – MXenes and APTES concentrations, reaction time and temperature was determined. When functionalization was completed, I further proceeded with glass substrates coating. For coating procedure, membranes were utilised. MXenes solution was filtrated through membrane using pressure-assisted vacuum filtration. Process was optimized and desired membrane was transferred on glass substrates. Further, membrane was dissolved and MXenes layer was deposited on the surface. Prepared samples were taken back to home institution and will be further characterized and applied for biomedical purposes.
During all secondment, constant consultations and meetings with Biofabics colleagues were carried out. In addition, I participated in their internal meetings to broaden my knowledge about 3D printing technologies and microfluidic systems developments. Moreover, I attended seminars for electrospinning training. In return, I presented my experience with investigations of biomolecular interactions using optical (spectroscopic ellipsometry) and acoustic (quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation) methods
From 2026-03-16 to 2026-03-30, Kristina Sobol carried out a secondment focused on the optimization and functionalization of MXene-based bioconjugates for biomedical applications. At the initial stage of the visit, MXenes of different sizes were prepared and their synthesis parameters were optimised to obtain materials with controlled physicochemical properties. Following work involved surface modification of MXenes using polydopamine, followed by the immobilisation of antibodies to develop targeted bioconjugates. Additional efforts were dedicated to improving conjugate performance through the optimisation of blocking strategies to reduce non-specific interactions.
The prepared MXene-based bioconjugates were characterised using UV–Vis spectroscopy, surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and complementary analytical techniques.
In the later stage of the secondment, photothermal testing of the developed systems was performed, including evaluation under in vitro conditions. The visit also included participation in interdisciplinary experiments involving bacterial growth and activity assessment, as well as fluorescence microscopy analysis. The latter provided confirmation of successful antibody immobilization using fluorescently labelled secondary antibodies. The results demonstrated the potential of MXene-based bioconjugates for applications in photothermal and targeted biomedical systems
From March 3rd to 17th, 2026, Viktorija Liustrovaite visited NanoBioMedical Center, AMU in Poznan, Poland. During the secondment, work on the optimization of electrochemical characterization methods for Ti3C2Tx MXene-modified screen-printed carbon electrodes was carried out. In addition, the deposition of MXenes onto the electrode surface by drop-casting and subsequent modification with a polydopamine (PDA) layer for antibody immobilization were studied.
Electrochemical measurements were used to investigate the MXene/PDA-modified electrodes, and optimal experimental parameters were selected. Training on antibody immobilization and the development of antibody–antigen recognition interfaces for electrochemical immunosensing was carried out.
Liustrovaite gained practical experience in electrochemical techniques such as cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). She also contributed to knowledge exchange by introducing square wave voltammetry (SWV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) for the analysis of MXene-based systems. The results obtained will be useful for further development of electrochemical immunosensors at Vilnius University
From March 3 to March 17, 2026, Dr. Benediktas Brasiūnas visited NanoBioMedical Center, AMU in Poznan, Poland.
The secondee performed research related to MXene-based materials and their integration into electrochemical sensing platforms. Activities carried out during this period included the preparation and deposition of Ti3C2TX MXenes on electrode surfaces, together with the assessment of approaches aimed at improving the stability and functional performance of the modified layers.
Throughout the visit, the dr. Benediktas Brasiūnas gained practical and scientific expertise in MXene processing, surface modification, and electrochemical characterization. The work also strengthened collaboration and knowledge exchange in the field of advanced materials for sensing applications. The results obtained provided a useful basis for optimizing modification procedures and supported the further development of MXene-based biosensing systems.
Two researchers from Adam Mickiewicz University (AMU), Andriy Lys and Irfan Hanif, carried out a secondment at RESPILON Membranes s.r.o. from 29 January to 27 February 2026. The visit was part of a collaborative effort aimed at advancing expertise in electrospinning technologies and strengthening cooperation between academic and industrial partners.
During the secondment, the research activities were focused on the development of electrospinning processes for polymer–MXene systems. The primary objective was to improve the practical aspects of membrane fabrication rather than provide basic training. Irfan worked on optimizing solution compositions and refining electrospinning parameters to achieve more uniform fibers and structurally stable membranes.
Several experimental series were conducted using large-scale electrospinning equipment at the host institution to investigate the behaviour of selected polymer–MXene compositions under continuous operation conditions. Pilot membranes were produced to evaluate process stability, fiber uniformity, and reproducibility at higher production rates. In parallel, different material formulations were compared to identify the most suitable systems for further development of functional membranes intended for large-scale production.
The secondment also enabled active knowledge exchange through daily laboratory interactions. Discussions focused on MXene dispersion, fiber formation mechanisms, and practical limitations of electrospinning processes. These interactions highlighted key differences between small-scale laboratory experiments and industrial-scale manufacturing.
From 23 January to 22 February 2026, Anton Popov carried out a secondment focused on the development of MXene-based nanocomposites for biomedical applications. At the outset of the visit, an in-depth review of existing studies on MXenes and their deposition on polymeric membranes was conducted to identify current approaches and research gaps. Based on this analysis, a structured research strategy was established. The initial phase also included hands-on training, enabling the researcher to become familiar with laboratory equipment and experimental procedures for working with nanostructures in biomedical contexts.
Ti3C2Tx MXenes used during the secondment were synthesized at Vilnius University from the MAX phase Ti₃AlC₂ obtained from the Materials Research Center (MRC, Ukraine). The subsequent stage of the visit focused on depositing MXenes and their nanoconjugates onto polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofiber membranes. Various deposition strategies were explored to achieve uniform, stable coatings. The coated membranes were then evaluated through photothermal testing. The results demonstrated that the coating efficiency of PCL membranes depends strongly on the preparation and deposition conditions of the nanoconjugates. Furthermore, a clear relationship between the photothermal performance and the concentration and composition of the MXene-based nanocomposites was established.
Almira Ramanaviciene (Vilnius University, VU) successfully completed a secondment to Latvia University (LU) from 11 to 25 November 2025 as part of the ESCULAPE project.
During the second period of the secondment, Prof. A. Ramanaviciene was focused on the Ti3C2TxMXenes of different size preparation, characterization and comparison. The special/optimized conditions were applied to obtain smaller MXenes using the ultrasonic bath. The MXenes obtained from the project partners’ and treated by the ultrasound were characterized electrochemically using different redox mediators and various electrochemical methods. It was determined that smaller MXenes obtained after treatment in the ultrasonic bath show much higher electrochemical signal when compared with screen printed carbon electrode modified with untreated and bigger in size MXenes. The reproducibility of electrodes modified with smaller in size MXenes was evaluated electrochemically. The obtained results confirmed that the selected electrode preparation and modification with MXenes method is appropriate for the further modifications and electrochemical studies.
The secondee at the host research institution was introduced to the principles of cell culturing, adding of MXene solution, storage terms and conditions, and biocompatibility assessment principles. The knowledge she gained is very valuable for the further research with MXenes.
Sergiy Kyrylenko continued from period 1