Professor Yurii Stetsyshyn, the Department of Organic Chemistry, the Institute of Chemistry and Chemical Technologies, Lviv Polytechnic, visited the University of Palermo (Italy) on a business trip funded by the House of Europe – Mobility Grants program. The host was Professor Giuseppe Lazzara and his research group, which is part of the Department of Physics and Chemistry at the University of Palermo.
During his visit, Professor Stetsyshyn conducted research on the functionalization of halloysite nanotubes and the development of hybrid nanocomposites, integrating them into polymer and composite systems. Special attention was given to the application of halloysite nanotubes in cultural heritage preservation and food protection, particularly in the creation of antimicrobial coatings and desiccant films.
The mobility period also involved active establishment of international collaborations. This included meetings with Professors Giuseppe Cavallaro and Stefana Milioto, the University of Palermo, to explore cooperation in the fields of nanomaterials and surface functionalization, as well as discussions with Professor Bruno Pagano and his team, University of Naples Federico II, on methods for controlling the delivery of aptamers to cells using inorganic nanomaterials.
An important highlight of the mobility period was a lecture delivered by Professor Yurii Stetsyshyn at the international workshop on Controlled Delivery by Inorganic Nanomaterials (NANONEURO). During the session, he shared his experience in functionalizing inorganic surfaces with smart polymers for biomedical and environmental applications. In addition to his lecture, Professor Stetsyshyn actively participated in panel discussions with leading European researchers, exploring prospects for joint publications and grant projects.
The knowledge and practical skills acquired during the visit will be integrated into the educational courses and scientific projects of undergraduate and postgraduate students at Lviv Polytechnic National University, and will also support the development of long-term partnerships with European universities and joint grant initiatives. A significant outcome of the trip was the preparation of a cooperation agreement between the Department of Organic Chemistry, Lviv Polytechnic, and the Department of Physics and Chemistry, the University of Palermo.
Combining scientific activities with a stay in Sicily provided an opportunity not only to work in state-of-the-art laboratories, but also to experience the unique cultural atmosphere of the island, explore the history of Palermo, and learn more about rich Sicilian tradition of science and education.
