Solid state physics is the study of how atoms arrange themselves into solids and what properties these solids have. By examining the arrangement of the atoms and considering how electrons move among the atoms, it is possible to understand many macroscopic properties of materials such as their elasticity, electrical conductivity, or optical properties. The Institute of Solid State Physics focuses on organic, molecular, and nanostructured materials. Often detailed studies of the behavior of these materials at surfaces are made. Our research provides the foundation for important advances in technology such as energy efficient lighting, solar cells, electronic books, environmental sensors, and medical sensors.

Organic electronic sensors

Diffusion of organic molecules

Chemical Sensing Transistors

Tattoo electrodes

Solid State Seminar - Summer 2025
Wednesday 02 April 2025      

Peptide-based soft matter and its applications
Charlotte Hauser, Institute for Health Care Engineering, TU Graz

Abstract: Rationally designed ultrashort peptides consisting of a few amino acids have shown an innate tendency to self-assemble into helical fibers in aqueous solutions, resulting in fibrous scaffolds in the form of hydrogels. The self-assembling peptides can also form vesicle-like micro- and nanoparticles. By tuning the gelation kinetics and mechanical properties, we developed hydrogel formulations that solidify instantaneously upon exposure to salt solutions. The observed fiber topography and entangled fibrous supramolecular networks show properties comparable to those of collagen and extracellular matrix-like biomaterials. Therefore, peptide-based soft materials are ideal candidates for biomedical applications, especially for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, but also for drug delivery, bioimaging, and topical applications. We are currently investigating the influence of light and electromagnetic fields on peptide hydrogels.