A novel approach, based on the integration between predictive modelling and experimental techniques, allowed the development of novel devices exploiting the natural instability of thin solid films. IFN-CNR has experience on semiconductor solid state dewetting to form complex patterns and nanoarchitectures (e.g. monocrystalline atomically-smooth structures, disordered hyperuniform metamaterials) that cannot be implemented with conventional methods. 

The Institute has also long and consolidated experience in fabrication and characterization of glass and glass-ceramic based materials for photonics and optoelectronics, exhibiting record efficiencies, low production costs and improved stability with respect to the state of the art. The scientific and technological expertise of the institute cover the full range from the study of physical mechanisms crucial for synthesis, development and characterization of innovative photonic nanostructured glass materials to design and fabrication of devices suitable for application in strategic interest areas such as sensing, information technology, energy conversion and light sources.

IFN also conducts research, both at a fundamental and at an application level, on 2D materials beyond graphene and developed methods to engineer the strain on such 2D membranes for novel applications in photonics and quantum technologies.  

The nano and micro fabrication laboratories of IFN distributed between Roma, Milano and Padova are a transversal facility devoted to the fabrication and characterization of nanostructured photonic and electronic devices. The platforms include dedicated e-beam lithography, nano-imprinting, optical lithography, dry etching  equipment located in dedicated clean room spaces.