Integrative approaches to hybrid multifunctional materials: from multidisciplinary research to applied technologies.

Abstract

Achieving nanostructured or hierarchical hybrid architectures involves cross-cutting synthetic strategies where all facettes of chemistry (organic, polymers, solid-state, physical, materials chemistries, biochemistry, etc..), soft matter and ingenious processing are synergistically coupled. These cross-cutting approaches are in the vein of bio-inspired synthesis strategies where the integration of different areas of expertise allows the development of complex systems of various shapes with perfect mastery at different size scales, composition, porosity, functionality, and morphology. These strategies coined "Integrative Chemistry" open a land of opportunities to create advanced hybrid materials with organic-inorganic or bio-inorganic character. These hybrid materials represent not only a new field of basic research where creative chemists can express themselves, but also, via their remarkable new properties and multifunctional nature, hybrids are allowing the emergence of innovative industrial applications in extremely diverse fields.