[INFRA+] DAUM: a 70 meter tube to create innovative materials | Factual

The DAUM platform (Ultravacuum Deposits and Analysis of NanoMaterials), created at the Jean Lamour Institute in 2018, continues its work of optimization and opening up to a large research, R&D and training community. The implementation of an efficient quality approach has just been rewarded by obtaining the label INFRA+. At the same time, its unique positioning at the national level has also resulted in a CNRS Chemistry Platform label. Danielle Pierre, the DAUM Competence Center manager tells us more about this extraordinary cutting-edge equipment dedicated to the exploration of new materials and new research in nanosciences.

Can you tell us about your platform?

The DAUM platform is located within the Jean Lamour Institute (IJL) in Nancy and is managed by the DAUM Competence Center. Created in 2018, it mobilizes five permanent engineers and more than 50 researchers who develop materials with innovative properties. The main objective of DAUM is to study and functionalize matter at the atomic scale, requiring ultrahigh vacuum conditions. Thanks to its unique infrastructure: a 70 meter long ultra-high vacuum tube interconnecting 30 chambers, DAUM makes it possible to combine and analyze different materials (metallic alloys, semiconductors, oxides, etc.), while maintaining the samples under ultra-high vacuum permanently. This platform is dedicated to fundamental research, training and collaboration with companies, thus contributing to innovation in the field of materials.

What needs does your platform meet?

DAUM meets crucial needs for fundamental and applied research in nanomaterials. It makes it possible to explore complex systems at the atomic scale, with applications in the fields of energy, environment and digital technology. For example, it makes it possible to develop information storage devices, sensors, or even new technologies for solar panels. One of the major challenges that DAUM addresses is the search for more ecological and less energy-consuming materials. The platform stands out for its unique infrastructure, both at regional and national level, and is part of the National Strategy for Research and Innovation, which makes nanotechnologies a scientific and economic priority.

Who is it intended for?

The DAUM platform is aimed at several types of audiences.

• For students, it offers practical work in nanosciences for masters, where they manipulate cutting-edge technologies to create sensors.
• For researchers, DAUM offers a unique infrastructure to conduct multidisciplinary research, with results published in prestigious journals internationally.
• For businesses, the platform promotes collaboration between academic research and industry, allowing them to adapt and develop technological applications thanks to the expertise of engineers and researchers from the DAUM Competence Center. This cooperation contributes to technology transfer and industrial innovation.

DAUM is therefore a tool of excellence for research, training and technological innovation.
For more information: Link to the center page. (photo credits: DAUM / IJL)