Use of Virtual Reality technology for the visualisation and understanding of phenomena in Fundamental Physics
Authorship
J.Á.M.
Bachelor of Physics
J.Á.M.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
02.03.2026 09:30
02.03.2026 09:30
Summary
This Final Degree Project explores the viability of using Virtual Reality (VR) technology as a tool for representing and understanding fundamental physics phenomena through immersive and interactive environments. The main motivation lies in the fact that this technology allows physical problems to be transferred to a controllable virtual environment, within which we can efficiently modify the scales of space and time. This facilitates the direct observation of changes in the dynamics of systems by manipulating relevant parameters, promoting a more intuitive understanding of complex scenarios. As a practical case, the VR simulation ‘Asteroid Gun’ for Meta Quest is being developed in Unity, based on a simplified model of the Solar System. The system integrates a set of celestial bodies, represented by asteroids, and allows the user to interact with the environment by entering it into the system. By controlling the direction and initial velocity of these bodies, the user can attempt to capture them in orbit around the Sun. This dynamic allows for intuitive exploration of gravity and the dependence of trajectories on initial conditions, as well as observation of how variations in parameters can produce different results.
This Final Degree Project explores the viability of using Virtual Reality (VR) technology as a tool for representing and understanding fundamental physics phenomena through immersive and interactive environments. The main motivation lies in the fact that this technology allows physical problems to be transferred to a controllable virtual environment, within which we can efficiently modify the scales of space and time. This facilitates the direct observation of changes in the dynamics of systems by manipulating relevant parameters, promoting a more intuitive understanding of complex scenarios. As a practical case, the VR simulation ‘Asteroid Gun’ for Meta Quest is being developed in Unity, based on a simplified model of the Solar System. The system integrates a set of celestial bodies, represented by asteroids, and allows the user to interact with the environment by entering it into the system. By controlling the direction and initial velocity of these bodies, the user can attempt to capture them in orbit around the Sun. This dynamic allows for intuitive exploration of gravity and the dependence of trajectories on initial conditions, as well as observation of how variations in parameters can produce different results.
Direction
CAZON BOADO, LORENZO (Tutorships)
CAZON BOADO, LORENZO (Tutorships)
Court
VEIRA SUAREZ, JOSE ANTONIO (Chairman)
GARCIA GUIMAREY, MARIA JESUS (Secretary)
VIEITES DIAZ, MARIA (Member)
VEIRA SUAREZ, JOSE ANTONIO (Chairman)
GARCIA GUIMAREY, MARIA JESUS (Secretary)
VIEITES DIAZ, MARIA (Member)
Characterization of optical devices for experimentation in quantum optics
Authorship
M.B.R.
Bachelor of Physics
M.B.R.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
02.03.2026 09:30
02.03.2026 09:30
Summary
This final project focuses on the characterization and calibration of optical and electronic devices used in experimentation in continuous-variable quantum optics. Work is done with components such as pulsed lasers, beam splitters, phase modulators, optical attenuators, and homodyne detectors, along with the associated electronics: arbitrary waveform generators, amplifiers, and high-resolution oscilloscopes. The main experiment consists in the implementation of an unbalanced Mach Zehnder interferometer using pulsed coherent states, operating both in the classical and quantum regimes. Key parameters such as optical attenuation, the balance of beam splitters, the detector’s shot to electronic noise clearance (SNC), and optical phase are characterized. As the main applications, the experimental implementation of a quantum random number generator is demonstrated by measuring vacuum quadratures, validating its statistical behavior against electronic and pseudorandom methods;, continuing with the preparation of a quantum key distribution (QKD) experiment.
This final project focuses on the characterization and calibration of optical and electronic devices used in experimentation in continuous-variable quantum optics. Work is done with components such as pulsed lasers, beam splitters, phase modulators, optical attenuators, and homodyne detectors, along with the associated electronics: arbitrary waveform generators, amplifiers, and high-resolution oscilloscopes. The main experiment consists in the implementation of an unbalanced Mach Zehnder interferometer using pulsed coherent states, operating both in the classical and quantum regimes. Key parameters such as optical attenuation, the balance of beam splitters, the detector’s shot to electronic noise clearance (SNC), and optical phase are characterized. As the main applications, the experimental implementation of a quantum random number generator is demonstrated by measuring vacuum quadratures, validating its statistical behavior against electronic and pseudorandom methods;, continuing with the preparation of a quantum key distribution (QKD) experiment.
Direction
SANCHEZ DE SANTOS, JOSE MANUEL (Tutorships)
Fernández Llovo, Iago (Co-tutorships)
SANCHEZ DE SANTOS, JOSE MANUEL (Tutorships)
Fernández Llovo, Iago (Co-tutorships)
Court
VEIRA SUAREZ, JOSE ANTONIO (Chairman)
GARCIA GUIMAREY, MARIA JESUS (Secretary)
VIEITES DIAZ, MARIA (Member)
VEIRA SUAREZ, JOSE ANTONIO (Chairman)
GARCIA GUIMAREY, MARIA JESUS (Secretary)
VIEITES DIAZ, MARIA (Member)
Collective Effects in Proton Proton and Proton Nucleus Collisions at High Energies
Authorship
J.C.M.
Bachelor of Physics
J.C.M.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
02.03.2026 09:30
02.03.2026 09:30
Summary
This thesis reviews the most recent results in the theoretical description of the collective effects observed in the final states of proton-proton collisions and in collisions of light projectiles with heavy ions. The analysis and comparison of these collective effects with those occurring with heavy ions allows us to advance our understanding of the properties of the proton and of the strong interaction in general.
This thesis reviews the most recent results in the theoretical description of the collective effects observed in the final states of proton-proton collisions and in collisions of light projectiles with heavy ions. The analysis and comparison of these collective effects with those occurring with heavy ions allows us to advance our understanding of the properties of the proton and of the strong interaction in general.
Direction
MERINO GAYOSO, CARLOS MIGUEL (Tutorships)
MERINO GAYOSO, CARLOS MIGUEL (Tutorships)
Court
VEIRA SUAREZ, JOSE ANTONIO (Chairman)
GARCIA GUIMAREY, MARIA JESUS (Secretary)
VIEITES DIAZ, MARIA (Member)
VEIRA SUAREZ, JOSE ANTONIO (Chairman)
GARCIA GUIMAREY, MARIA JESUS (Secretary)
VIEITES DIAZ, MARIA (Member)
Physical principles and applications of 3D printing to the manufacturing of nanostructured scaffolds, organoids and tissues.
Authorship
S.C.C.
Bachelor of Physics
S.C.C.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
02.03.2026 09:30
02.03.2026 09:30
Summary
3D printing is an emerging manufacturing technique that has garnered much attention in recent times due to its ability to create objects with complex geometries that either traditional methods cannot or they do it in a much faster or cheaper fashion. These techniques often use advanced materials with excellent properties compared to traditional methods. In this document, some of the different methods that exist to manufacture an object using 3D printing, the different types of materials and inks available today, and some applications that these techniques may have are analyzed, all with a focus on the biomedical field. In this field, applications such as printing models for the investigation of novel drugs, functional grafts ready for transplant, or even whole organs promise to revolutionise healthcare. However, there are still limitations that need to be overcome, namely the lack of bioinks with diverse properties for use in different applications that nonetheless are biocompatible and biodegradable and the lack of 3D printing methods, enabling the ability to work with a wider range of bioinks and also overcome limitations of the current technologies. 4D printing is also briefly covered, technology that uses smart materials to create objects whose properties change based on external stimuli, allowing the creation of a device that can adapt to its environment and be much more controllable, since the stimulus can be applied at any time. 4D printing techniques overlap with 3D printing, with many technologies having applications in both fields.
3D printing is an emerging manufacturing technique that has garnered much attention in recent times due to its ability to create objects with complex geometries that either traditional methods cannot or they do it in a much faster or cheaper fashion. These techniques often use advanced materials with excellent properties compared to traditional methods. In this document, some of the different methods that exist to manufacture an object using 3D printing, the different types of materials and inks available today, and some applications that these techniques may have are analyzed, all with a focus on the biomedical field. In this field, applications such as printing models for the investigation of novel drugs, functional grafts ready for transplant, or even whole organs promise to revolutionise healthcare. However, there are still limitations that need to be overcome, namely the lack of bioinks with diverse properties for use in different applications that nonetheless are biocompatible and biodegradable and the lack of 3D printing methods, enabling the ability to work with a wider range of bioinks and also overcome limitations of the current technologies. 4D printing is also briefly covered, technology that uses smart materials to create objects whose properties change based on external stimuli, allowing the creation of a device that can adapt to its environment and be much more controllable, since the stimulus can be applied at any time. 4D printing techniques overlap with 3D printing, with many technologies having applications in both fields.
Direction
TABOADA ANTELO, PABLO (Tutorships)
Costa Santos, Alba (Co-tutorships)
TABOADA ANTELO, PABLO (Tutorships)
Costa Santos, Alba (Co-tutorships)
Court
VEIRA SUAREZ, JOSE ANTONIO (Chairman)
GARCIA GUIMAREY, MARIA JESUS (Secretary)
VIEITES DIAZ, MARIA (Member)
VEIRA SUAREZ, JOSE ANTONIO (Chairman)
GARCIA GUIMAREY, MARIA JESUS (Secretary)
VIEITES DIAZ, MARIA (Member)
Calculation of cross sections in collisions of hydrogen-like atoms with different target potential parametrizations.
Authorship
D.C.V.
Bachelor of Physics
D.C.V.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
02.03.2026 09:30
02.03.2026 09:30
Summary
In this work, the interaction between hydrogen-like atoms specifically dimuonium, pionium, and hydrogen and various target atoms is studied through the calculation of total cross sections. To tackle the problem, perturbation theory is used to solve the non-relativistic Hamiltonian, considering four different parameterizations for the atom’s screening function: Molière, Rozental, Csavinszky, and Kesarwani-Varshni. The aim is to evaluate how each parameterization affects the results obtained for different atomic numbers Z. Additionally, the study is carried out for states with angular and orbital momenta l=0, m=0; l=1, m=1; and l=2, m=0, in order to analyze both the behavior of the calculated cross-section values for each parameterization and the ratio between each of them, using Molière’s as a reference. Overall, this work highlights the importance of choosing an appropriate screening model and the relevance of including corrections to the potential when dealing with elements that are less common in this type of experiment. The conclusions drawn may serve as a basis for developing more realistic models and thus improve the accuracy of results in similar interactions.
In this work, the interaction between hydrogen-like atoms specifically dimuonium, pionium, and hydrogen and various target atoms is studied through the calculation of total cross sections. To tackle the problem, perturbation theory is used to solve the non-relativistic Hamiltonian, considering four different parameterizations for the atom’s screening function: Molière, Rozental, Csavinszky, and Kesarwani-Varshni. The aim is to evaluate how each parameterization affects the results obtained for different atomic numbers Z. Additionally, the study is carried out for states with angular and orbital momenta l=0, m=0; l=1, m=1; and l=2, m=0, in order to analyze both the behavior of the calculated cross-section values for each parameterization and the ratio between each of them, using Molière’s as a reference. Overall, this work highlights the importance of choosing an appropriate screening model and the relevance of including corrections to the potential when dealing with elements that are less common in this type of experiment. The conclusions drawn may serve as a basis for developing more realistic models and thus improve the accuracy of results in similar interactions.
Direction
SANTAMARINA RIOS, CIBRAN (Tutorships)
SANTAMARINA RIOS, CIBRAN (Tutorships)
Court
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)
Study of the sequential and direct emission of the Hoyle state
Authorship
A.D.L.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
A.D.L.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
Defense date
02.03.2026 09:30
02.03.2026 09:30
Summary
Understanding the mechanisms responsible for nucleosynthesis in stars is crucial for explaining the chemical composition of the universe, as stars are the source of essential elements for life such as oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon. In this context, the study of alpha cluster structures that some excited states of light nuclei can possess is particularly interesting. A fundamental example is the Hoyle state in 12C, key to carbon formation in stars, but analogous states are predicted in nuclei proportional to the number of alpha particles, making 16O a candidate for possessing one of these states. This work analyzes the alpha decay channels of the 16O nucleus using kinematic simulations performed with Root, with the aim of characterizing the different decay mechanisms. Both sequential processes, dominated by intermediate states such as 8Be or the Hoyle state, and simultaneous processes are studied. These are compared using kinetic energy spectra, angular distributions, and Dalitz diagrams, which provide a clear representation of the energy correlations between alpha particles. The main objectives of this work are to understand the importance of the Hoyle state, to become familiar with simulation and analysis packages such as Root, to simulate direct and sequential emissions, and finally, to determine the capacity of the obtained Dalitz diagrams to allow for qualitative differentiation between the available decay channels.
Understanding the mechanisms responsible for nucleosynthesis in stars is crucial for explaining the chemical composition of the universe, as stars are the source of essential elements for life such as oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon. In this context, the study of alpha cluster structures that some excited states of light nuclei can possess is particularly interesting. A fundamental example is the Hoyle state in 12C, key to carbon formation in stars, but analogous states are predicted in nuclei proportional to the number of alpha particles, making 16O a candidate for possessing one of these states. This work analyzes the alpha decay channels of the 16O nucleus using kinematic simulations performed with Root, with the aim of characterizing the different decay mechanisms. Both sequential processes, dominated by intermediate states such as 8Be or the Hoyle state, and simultaneous processes are studied. These are compared using kinetic energy spectra, angular distributions, and Dalitz diagrams, which provide a clear representation of the energy correlations between alpha particles. The main objectives of this work are to understand the importance of the Hoyle state, to become familiar with simulation and analysis packages such as Root, to simulate direct and sequential emissions, and finally, to determine the capacity of the obtained Dalitz diagrams to allow for qualitative differentiation between the available decay channels.
Direction
FERNANDEZ DOMINGUEZ, BEATRIZ (Tutorships)
Blanco Calviño, Iván (Co-tutorships)
FERNANDEZ DOMINGUEZ, BEATRIZ (Tutorships)
Blanco Calviño, Iván (Co-tutorships)
Court
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)
Study of halogenation reactions of biomolecules
Authorship
A.D.L.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
A.D.L.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
Defense date
02.19.2026 10:00
02.19.2026 10:00
Summary
Hypochlorous acid is an oxidizing agent capable of fighting pathogens, while in excess it can also damage healthy tissues, contributing to the development of inflammatory diseases. In this work, the chlorine transfer reaction from hypochlorite to imidazole, a compound that constitutes a good model of the histidine side chain, was kinetically studied. Studying this reaction by UV-Vis spectrophotometry revealed that the process is first-order regarding each of the reactants. Analysis of the influence of pH on the observed second-order rate constant, along with the absence of general acid-base catalysis, led to the proposal of a reaction mechanism in which in the rate-determining step the nucleophilic attack of imidazole on the chlorine atom of hypochlorous acid occurs. The specific acid-base catalysis observed is due to the rapid ionization equilibria of both reactants in the pH range studied. In agreement with the proposed mechanism, a value of the second-order rate constant for the reaction of 1,48 10 5 M-1 s-1 was determined at I = 0,5 M and 25,0 ºC. This value is in agreement with that which can be estimated from literature data at physiological pH for the chlorination of the imidazole ring by hypochlorous acid in model histidine compounds.
Hypochlorous acid is an oxidizing agent capable of fighting pathogens, while in excess it can also damage healthy tissues, contributing to the development of inflammatory diseases. In this work, the chlorine transfer reaction from hypochlorite to imidazole, a compound that constitutes a good model of the histidine side chain, was kinetically studied. Studying this reaction by UV-Vis spectrophotometry revealed that the process is first-order regarding each of the reactants. Analysis of the influence of pH on the observed second-order rate constant, along with the absence of general acid-base catalysis, led to the proposal of a reaction mechanism in which in the rate-determining step the nucleophilic attack of imidazole on the chlorine atom of hypochlorous acid occurs. The specific acid-base catalysis observed is due to the rapid ionization equilibria of both reactants in the pH range studied. In agreement with the proposed mechanism, a value of the second-order rate constant for the reaction of 1,48 10 5 M-1 s-1 was determined at I = 0,5 M and 25,0 ºC. This value is in agreement with that which can be estimated from literature data at physiological pH for the chlorination of the imidazole ring by hypochlorous acid in model histidine compounds.
Direction
RIOS RODRIGUEZ, ANA MARIA (Tutorships)
CRUGEIRAS MARTINEZ, JUAN (Co-tutorships)
RIOS RODRIGUEZ, ANA MARIA (Tutorships)
CRUGEIRAS MARTINEZ, JUAN (Co-tutorships)
Court
GARCIA JARES, CARMEN MARIA (Chairman)
LAZZARI , MASSIMO (Secretary)
FIOL LOPEZ, SARAH (Member)
GARCIA JARES, CARMEN MARIA (Chairman)
LAZZARI , MASSIMO (Secretary)
FIOL LOPEZ, SARAH (Member)
Integrability in Field Theories
Authorship
A.M.G.T.
Bachelor of Physics
A.M.G.T.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
02.03.2026 09:30
02.03.2026 09:30
Summary
Field theories in bidimensional space-times allow for a deeper understanding of quantum field theory, offering a greater degree of control as compared to higher dimensions. Moreover, they play a fundamental role in string theory. In particular, integrable quantum field theories have an infinite number of conserved charges, which confers them special properties. The objective of this Final Degree Project is studying integrability in the context of field theories and analyzing a perturbative construction of an integrable field theorie, imposing the integrabiity conditions on the S-matrix of the theory.
Field theories in bidimensional space-times allow for a deeper understanding of quantum field theory, offering a greater degree of control as compared to higher dimensions. Moreover, they play a fundamental role in string theory. In particular, integrable quantum field theories have an infinite number of conserved charges, which confers them special properties. The objective of this Final Degree Project is studying integrability in the context of field theories and analyzing a perturbative construction of an integrable field theorie, imposing the integrabiity conditions on the S-matrix of the theory.
Direction
BORSATO , RICCARDO (Tutorships)
BORSATO , RICCARDO (Tutorships)
Court
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)
Impact of volcanic eruptions on the climate
Authorship
A.G.B.
Bachelor of Physics
A.G.B.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
02.03.2026 09:30
02.03.2026 09:30
Summary
In this paper we will carry out an analysis of how and when a volcanic eruption can affect the climate of our planet. To do so, we will explain several prior concepts involved in these processes, defining the general atmospheric circulation, the jet stream, and the radiative balance, focusing our attention on sulfuric aerosols that reach the stratosphere as the main cause of climatic effects. Finally, we will discuss the different ways in which the system responds to this input of matter, modifying our climate over the following years, varying temperatures both at the surface and at altitude, altering the jet stream and the amount of incident radiation, and even exerting substantial effects on the ozone layer.
In this paper we will carry out an analysis of how and when a volcanic eruption can affect the climate of our planet. To do so, we will explain several prior concepts involved in these processes, defining the general atmospheric circulation, the jet stream, and the radiative balance, focusing our attention on sulfuric aerosols that reach the stratosphere as the main cause of climatic effects. Finally, we will discuss the different ways in which the system responds to this input of matter, modifying our climate over the following years, varying temperatures both at the surface and at altitude, altering the jet stream and the amount of incident radiation, and even exerting substantial effects on the ozone layer.
Direction
MIGUEZ MACHO, GONZALO (Tutorships)
MIGUEZ MACHO, GONZALO (Tutorships)
Court
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)
Design and validation of a calibration procedure for brachytherapy well-type ionization chambers
Authorship
E.G.G.
Bachelor of Physics
E.G.G.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
02.03.2026 09:30
02.03.2026 09:30
Summary
Reference dosimetry in high-dose-rate brachytherapy consists of determining the air kerma at a given reference distance from the radioactive source used in this practice. In hospitals, in order to determine the air-kerma value of their brachytherapy sources, well-type ionization chambers calibrated in this quantity are employed for a specific source model and applicator. In this work, we propose and validate the implementation of a calibration service for well-type ionization chambers for high-dose-rate brachytherapy sources.
Reference dosimetry in high-dose-rate brachytherapy consists of determining the air kerma at a given reference distance from the radioactive source used in this practice. In hospitals, in order to determine the air-kerma value of their brachytherapy sources, well-type ionization chambers calibrated in this quantity are employed for a specific source model and applicator. In this work, we propose and validate the implementation of a calibration service for well-type ionization chambers for high-dose-rate brachytherapy sources.
Direction
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Tutorships)
GONZALEZ CASTAÑO, DIEGO MIGUEL (Co-tutorships)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Tutorships)
GONZALEZ CASTAÑO, DIEGO MIGUEL (Co-tutorships)
Court
VEIRA SUAREZ, JOSE ANTONIO (Chairman)
GARCIA GUIMAREY, MARIA JESUS (Secretary)
VIEITES DIAZ, MARIA (Member)
VEIRA SUAREZ, JOSE ANTONIO (Chairman)
GARCIA GUIMAREY, MARIA JESUS (Secretary)
VIEITES DIAZ, MARIA (Member)
Scientific Dissemination: Analysis of the Eclipse Sequence over the Iberian Peninsula and Its Implementation in Virtual Reality
Authorship
M.I.M.
Bachelor of Physics
M.I.M.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
02.03.2026 09:30
02.03.2026 09:30
Summary
In astronomy, the term “eclipse” refers to the disappearance of the light emitted by a celestial body as a result of its obstruction by a second body [1]. Such events have attracted human attention since antiquity, with written records of observations dating back to at least 2500 B.C. At present, the uniqueness of eclipses continues to arouse considerable interest, particularly in the case of total eclipses. [2] In the coming years, three remarkable solar eclipses will occur over Spanish territory, two of them being total and one annular. Owing to the unusual nature of this sequence of closely spaced events, public curiosity and general interest in astronomy have been renewed, leading to an increased demand for accessible and reliable information. [3] This work focuses on the development of an outreach tool aimed at bringing knowledge about these phenomena closer to the general public in a simple and visual manner. The primary objective of the project is to foster user intuition, helping them to understand the dynamics of eclipses while navigating through different scenes corresponding to the dates of these events. The tool will take the form of a videogame-like application designed for the Meta Quest 3 virtual reality headset ecosystem, in order to provide the most immersive experience possible.
In astronomy, the term “eclipse” refers to the disappearance of the light emitted by a celestial body as a result of its obstruction by a second body [1]. Such events have attracted human attention since antiquity, with written records of observations dating back to at least 2500 B.C. At present, the uniqueness of eclipses continues to arouse considerable interest, particularly in the case of total eclipses. [2] In the coming years, three remarkable solar eclipses will occur over Spanish territory, two of them being total and one annular. Owing to the unusual nature of this sequence of closely spaced events, public curiosity and general interest in astronomy have been renewed, leading to an increased demand for accessible and reliable information. [3] This work focuses on the development of an outreach tool aimed at bringing knowledge about these phenomena closer to the general public in a simple and visual manner. The primary objective of the project is to foster user intuition, helping them to understand the dynamics of eclipses while navigating through different scenes corresponding to the dates of these events. The tool will take the form of a videogame-like application designed for the Meta Quest 3 virtual reality headset ecosystem, in order to provide the most immersive experience possible.
Direction
CAZON BOADO, LORENZO (Tutorships)
Cabanelas Eiras, Pablo (Co-tutorships)
CAZON BOADO, LORENZO (Tutorships)
Cabanelas Eiras, Pablo (Co-tutorships)
Court
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)
Plasmonic nanoparticles and SERS spectroscopy: fundamentals and applications in (bio)detection
Authorship
R.M.N.C.
Bachelor of Physics
R.M.N.C.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
02.03.2026 09:30
02.03.2026 09:30
Summary
For decades, an interdisciplinary scientific effort has been underway to develop new systems for ultra-detection of biomolecular and environmental microorganisms. This work analyzes the role of nanoscience in (bio)detection, specifically the use of plasmonic nanoparticles (gold and silver) as signal-amplifying substrates in Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS), a technique that allows for nanomolar (nM) and even picomolar (pM) sensitivities. The study addresses the physical principles of light interaction with metallic surfaces, particularly the surface plasmon of the nanoparticles, and of SERS itself. It also conducts a literature review of the latest advances, highlighting the early detection of diseases such as breast cancer and the identification of contaminants such as organophosphate pesticides (Ethyl Parathion, Edifenfos, Ziram) in water and food.
For decades, an interdisciplinary scientific effort has been underway to develop new systems for ultra-detection of biomolecular and environmental microorganisms. This work analyzes the role of nanoscience in (bio)detection, specifically the use of plasmonic nanoparticles (gold and silver) as signal-amplifying substrates in Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS), a technique that allows for nanomolar (nM) and even picomolar (pM) sensitivities. The study addresses the physical principles of light interaction with metallic surfaces, particularly the surface plasmon of the nanoparticles, and of SERS itself. It also conducts a literature review of the latest advances, highlighting the early detection of diseases such as breast cancer and the identification of contaminants such as organophosphate pesticides (Ethyl Parathion, Edifenfos, Ziram) in water and food.
Direction
BARBOSA FERNANDEZ, SILVIA (Tutorships)
BARBOSA FERNANDEZ, SILVIA (Tutorships)
Court
VEIRA SUAREZ, JOSE ANTONIO (Chairman)
GARCIA GUIMAREY, MARIA JESUS (Secretary)
VIEITES DIAZ, MARIA (Member)
VEIRA SUAREZ, JOSE ANTONIO (Chairman)
GARCIA GUIMAREY, MARIA JESUS (Secretary)
VIEITES DIAZ, MARIA (Member)
Analysis of lipid vesicles and characterization of interaction with proteins
Authorship
C.S.M.
Bachelor of Physics
C.S.M.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
02.03.2026 09:30
02.03.2026 09:30
Summary
Liposomes are key tools in the development of drug delivery and diagnostic systems due to their unique characteristics. Although their applications are diverse, their in vivo behavior differs significantly from their in vitro performance, which can hinder their clinical application. Liposomes must circulate in the body for extended periods to reach target tissues. This presents a challenge when liposomes encounter biological fluids in vivo, as proteins and other biomolecules interact with them to form a protein corona, potentially altering their function. This work explores the formation of the protein corona on liposomes, the factors influencing the structure and composition of liposome-protein complexes, and strategies to control this process. We focus on three different lipid bilayer compositions and two model proteins. Experimentally, the size of the complexes will be measured using Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). Additionally, the phase transition temperatures of the liposomes by DSC will be determined, and their surface charge will be analyzed using Laser Doppler Electrophoresis (ELS). Finally, the stability of these liposome-protein corona systems will be assessed.
Liposomes are key tools in the development of drug delivery and diagnostic systems due to their unique characteristics. Although their applications are diverse, their in vivo behavior differs significantly from their in vitro performance, which can hinder their clinical application. Liposomes must circulate in the body for extended periods to reach target tissues. This presents a challenge when liposomes encounter biological fluids in vivo, as proteins and other biomolecules interact with them to form a protein corona, potentially altering their function. This work explores the formation of the protein corona on liposomes, the factors influencing the structure and composition of liposome-protein complexes, and strategies to control this process. We focus on three different lipid bilayer compositions and two model proteins. Experimentally, the size of the complexes will be measured using Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). Additionally, the phase transition temperatures of the liposomes by DSC will be determined, and their surface charge will be analyzed using Laser Doppler Electrophoresis (ELS). Finally, the stability of these liposome-protein corona systems will be assessed.
Direction
Prieto Estévez, Gerardo (Tutorships)
DOMINGUEZ ARCA, VICENTE (Co-tutorships)
Prieto Estévez, Gerardo (Tutorships)
DOMINGUEZ ARCA, VICENTE (Co-tutorships)
Court
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)
Study of turbulence generation in a two-dimensional flow: effect of Reynolds number, presence of obstacles and boundary conditions.
Authorship
M.J.S.P.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
M.J.S.P.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
Defense date
02.03.2026 09:30
02.03.2026 09:30
Summary
The present work consists of a theoretical and numerical study of turbulence in two-dimensional flows using the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM). First, a comparative analysis of turbulence in two and three dimensions is carried out, with particular emphasis on the energy and enstrophy transfer cascades across different scales. These theoretical concepts are used as a framework to interpret the results obtained from the simulations. The method is implemented for an incompressible, viscous two-dimensional flow, characterized by the Reynolds number, which moves through a finite rectangular domain containing a set of disks. Boundary conditions are applied at the inlet and outlet boundaries (Zou/He method), at the lateral walls, and on the obstacles (bounce-back conditions).
The present work consists of a theoretical and numerical study of turbulence in two-dimensional flows using the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM). First, a comparative analysis of turbulence in two and three dimensions is carried out, with particular emphasis on the energy and enstrophy transfer cascades across different scales. These theoretical concepts are used as a framework to interpret the results obtained from the simulations. The method is implemented for an incompressible, viscous two-dimensional flow, characterized by the Reynolds number, which moves through a finite rectangular domain containing a set of disks. Boundary conditions are applied at the inlet and outlet boundaries (Zou/He method), at the lateral walls, and on the obstacles (bounce-back conditions).
Direction
Pérez Muñuzuri, Vicente (Tutorships)
Dapena García, Raquel (Co-tutorships)
Pérez Muñuzuri, Vicente (Tutorships)
Dapena García, Raquel (Co-tutorships)
Court
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)
SABORIDO SILVA, JUAN JOSE (Chairman)
CAAMAÑO FRESCO, MANUEL (Secretary)
GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, FAUSTINO (Member)