Researchers from the Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences have once again proven their innovative spirit and dedication to a healthier future!
This year, the 67th International Fair of Technics and Technical Achievements was held at the Belgrade Fairgrounds (May 20-23), under the slogan Technology in Your Hands.
Participants showcased the latest advancements in industrial technologies. The Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences presented five innovations at its booths in Hall 2b of the Belgrade Fair.
The innovation named Vidλ Sunscreen Milk was awarded as the best innovation at the entire Fair this year! (https://sajam.rs/dodeljene-nagrade-67-medunarodnog-sajma-tehnike-i-tehnickih-dostignuca/)
Vidλ Sunscreen Milk is a product based on mineral filters for sun protection. With a fluid texture and easy application, it is made from completely natural ingredients, leaves no white marks, and is suitable for sensitive skin. The product was developed in cooperation between the Vinca Institute and Amelles, a company specializing in cosmetic preparations.
At the 67th Fair of Technics and Technical Achievements, the scientific team from Vinca also presented the prototype of the first supersite for measuring atmospheric particulate pollution in Serbia, which introduces a completely new level of precision in air quality monitoring.
Why is this so important? The recent European Directive on Air Quality and Cleaner Air for Europe (2024/2881) brings stricter rules, and our regulations will soon be harmonized with it. The new rules require the establishment of supersites that will monitor many more parameters, especially concerning atmospheric aerosols. Besides "ordinary" particles, measurements now include ultrafine particles, black and elemental carbon, as well as oxidative potential.
These detailed measurements provide us with invaluable information. We will gain a clearer insight into the actual exposure of the population to pollutants and their direct impact on our health and the environment, all in accordance with the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO).
You can find more about the project at: https://webasoop.vinca.rs/
Another innovation coming from the Institute is PAQMON: The Vinca team's innovative laboratory chamber for precise air quality measurement.
In a time when precise air quality measurement is crucial for our health and the environment, the Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences is leading with advancements. Our research team developed and presented PAQMON: an integrated laboratory chamber for testing air quality measurement devices, which represents a key step towards reliability and standardization in this field.
The PAQMON system provides conditions for measurement traceability. This is the foundation for the reliability and validity of all data provided by air quality measurement devices, whether used in science, industry, or healthcare. Thanks to calibration under controlled conditions, we drastically improve measurement precision, enable easy comparison with reference values, and, most importantly, contribute to making correct decisions regarding the air we breathe. The chamber allows for the simulation of various ambient conditions, which is essential for thoroughly testing and calibrating devices. It measures everything from PM particles (PM1, PM2.5, PM10) to temperature and relative humidity. These precise testing conditions guarantee that the devices are reliable even before they are deployed in a real environment.
We also plan to expand the functionality of the PAQMON chamber. This includes simulating different gas concentrations and developing modules for the automatic analysis of sensor stability and reliability over time.
Behind this innovative solution stands a multidisciplinary team of experts from our Institute. Their collaborative work is another testament to the Vinca Institute's excellence and dedication to solving today's most pressing challenges.
More Innovations from Vinca
Also presented was E-Coat, an innovative device for the localized application of thin films and coatings on metal surfaces, based on electrolysis. This device allows for precise layer application without the need for complete immersion in electrolyte baths, thereby reducing chemical consumption and costs. It is suitable for repairing damaged coatings, creating sensor coatings, and producing permanent QR codes and markings. The technology is environmentally friendly, economical, and adaptable to various industrial applications, including aeronautics, the automotive industry, and industrial maintenance.
Furthermore, new materials based on graphene and various polymers were showcased, which effectively block the propagation of non-ionizing electromagnetic waves in the 8 to 12 GHz frequency range. Materials produced using nanotechnology are lighter, chemically more stable, more corrosion-resistant, more flexible, more economically accessible, and more environmentally friendly than conventional materials, blocking over 70% of incident radiation. With a thickness of only 0.2 cm, these materials prevent the passage of most incident electromagnetic waves, whereas commercially available materials are typically over 1 cm thick and primarily metal-based. The demand for innovative solutions based on nanomaterials for protection against secondary, non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation will continue to grow year by year. The exhibited materials are suitable for applications in blocking radiation caused by telecommunication systems, radars, antennas, and other sources of this type of radiation.
By presenting these innovative solutions, the Institute not only keeps pace with global trends but actively contributes to improving the quality of life and environmental protection in Serbia. The Fair was an excellent opportunity to showcase the capabilities and expertise of our research team, announcing future breakthroughs in applying science for the benefit of society.
