jcampos@cua.uam.mx
Additional Details
• National Laboratory Affiliation• Collaboration agreement
• Research project
Introduction
This facility is part of the National Multidisciplinary Laboratory dedicated to the characterization of materials and nanostructures.
The Surface and Interface Laboratory, affiliated with the Division of Natural Sciences and Engineering at the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Cuajimalpa Campus, focuses on the study of complex systems involving biomolecular components and synthetic materials under surface and interfacial conditions. Its scientific work unfolds in an interdisciplinary context encompassing biophysical chemistry, materials engineering, nanotechnology, and biocatalysis.
The research lines pursued in the laboratory include: i) Enzymatic catalysis, with an emphasis on the production, purification, functional characterization, and immobilization of enzymes on solid supports—including flat surfaces and functionalized nanoparticles—to optimize their activity, stability, and reuse in catalytic processes; ii) The study of surface and interfacial properties of biomolecules, particularly proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), and their complexes, through techniques that allow the evaluation of molecular interactions, self-assembly, adsorption, and organization in monolayers or liquid/liquid and liquid/air interfaces; and
iii) The design, synthesis, and characterization of three-dimensional scaffolds for tissue engineering applications, using matrices based on natural and synthetic polymers and nanomaterials with tunable mechanical and biochemical properties.
The projects developed in the laboratory aim to generate functional materials with specific properties determined by their interfacial characteristics, seeking high-value-added applications in the food, biomedical, and environmental sectors. Design strategies consider molecular-level surface control and the integration of active biomolecules to create intelligent platforms capable of responding to specific stimuli.
The laboratory is designed for specialized research requiring highly controlled physical conditions. It features a clean working environment, air purification systems, temperature and humidity control, and vibration isolation through anti-vibration tables. These conditions ensure the experimental stability for studies sensitive to external disturbances, such as monolayers, molecular interactions, and thin film characterization.
Additionally, the space is equipped with high-precision instrumentation for preparing and analyzing interfacial systems. Notable equipment includes a Langmuir trough for studying monolayers and surface pressure; a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) for in situ monitoring of molecular adsorption; an interfacial rheometer for evaluating the mechanical properties of films at interfaces; a spin coater for controlled thin-film deposition; and a tensiometer for measuring surface and interfacial tensions. This technological platform enables the study of interfacial phenomena with high precision and reproducibility, strengthening both cutting-edge scientific research and the training of highly specialized human resources.
Projects and Activities
The Surfaces and Interfaces Laboratory drives its scientific work through strategic projects aimed at consolidating specialized research lines and building collaborative academic networks. One of its main initiatives involves the development and strengthening of the Academic Body “Physicochemistry and Biomolecular Interactions” (CA-FIB), registered in the Professional Development Program for Professors (PRODEP) under IDCA: 6358.
This academic group, currently in formation, includes researchers with expertise in surface physicochemistry, biointerfaces, enzymatic catalysis, and the design of biomimetic materials. Their central goal is to generate cutting-edge knowledge on molecular interactions in complex interfacial systems by integrating experimental and theoretical approaches that drive innovative applications in biotechnology, biomedicine, food science, and environmental science.
In this context, the lab also leads an inter-institutional collaborative project with the Center for Nanosciences and Micro and Nanotechnologies at IPN (CNMN-IPN) and the Division of Natural Sciences and Engineering at the Cuajimalpa Campus of UAM, focusing on recovering and purifying cutin from agro-industrial waste—mainly tomato and citrus peels—to develop sustainable polymeric biomaterials. The project utilizes this waste as a renewable source of hydrophobic biopolymers for potential use in food packaging, aligning with the principles of circular economy, biocompatibility, and sustainability.
The team applies enzymatic and chemical methods to extract cutin. It develops biodegradable films by combining this material with conventional plastics such as PEG, PP, and PET, as well as post-consumer plastics like bags, bottles, and styrofoam. The project advances process scaling, student training, publication in scientific journals, and the pursuit of patentable technologies.
By integrating applied research, teaching, and institutional collaboration, the laboratory strengthens its scientific and technological infrastructure, positioning itself as a strategic hub for advancing knowledge in biomolecular physicochemistry and advanced materials.
The Surfaces and Interfaces Laboratory at the Cuajimalpa Campus features highly specialized infrastructure designed for the advanced study of surface and interface phenomena and for the preparation and characterization of functional materials. Its equipment enables high-precision research under controlled experimental conditions, supporting the lab’s core research areas and training students and researchers.
Among its most important instruments is the Langmuir-Blodgett trough KSV (117688), a key tool for studying monolayers at air-liquid interfaces and for transferring thin films onto solid substrates. The lab also includes a spin coater for the uniform deposition of thin films on flat surfaces and a quartz crystal microbalance QCM-Z500 KSV (118069) for the quantitative analysis of mass changes and viscoelastic properties in interfacial systems.
Additionally, the laboratory is equipped with a broad array of tools for surface analysis and preparation. These include the KSV Theta drop tensiometer, the Brewster angle microscope Microbam KSV (117312), and a plasma cleaner (117687) for molecular-level surface activation and cleaning. To ensure stable experimental conditions, the lab features I4 M6/25 (117705) and Varlo Basic anti-vibration tables, as well as thermal control systems such as the Polyscience circulating bath model 9106 (117355) and water recirculators Polyscience (117996) and Puresa HC-500 (110397).
Air quality and the cleanliness of the experimental environment are ensured by a Healthway Class II air purifier (117315) and a Veco laminar flow hood. The lab also houses a vacuum oven (117632) and a universal thermohygrometer (Cat. EW03313-65) for precise control of humidity and temperature.
For basic characterization of solutions and samples, the lab includes a 120 g / 0.1 mg electronic analytical balance (Wiggen-Hauser, 117306), a benchtop digital pH meter (117687), and a multiparametric device for pH/EC/TDS/°C measurements (117995). For studies requiring specific biological conditions, the lab provides a digital shaking incubator (117649) and a tube-shaking incubator, model Temp 1550 (118006).
Finally, the laboratory is equipped with various vacuum systems, including a Premium Vacuum Pump (117200), a Rocker 600 pump (117201), a Dry Fast Ultra Vacuum Pump 25L 2 TORR PTFE (117394), and a low-speed digital pump (117395), all essential for drying processes, sample cleaning, and surface preparation.
This technological infrastructure provides a robust and controlled environment for conducting highly complex experimental research, ensuring the reliability and reproducibility of the scientific results generated.
Primary User Groups
The Surface and Interfaces Laboratory is actively used by a group of faculty members affiliated with the Department of Processes and Technology (DPT) and the Department of Natural Sciences (DCN) within the Division of Natural Sciences and Engineering (DCNI) at the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Cuajimalpa Campus. These users form the research core that drives the development of the laboratory’s scientific lines and contributes to the training of undergraduate and graduate students.
Among the main users are Dr. José Campos Terán, Dr. Maribel Hernández Guerrero, Dr. Izlia J. Arroyo Maya, Dr. María de los Dolores Reyes Duarte, and Dr. Nohra Beltrán Vargas, all affiliated with the Department of Processes and Technology (DPT)—additionally, Dr. Roxana López Simeon, a faculty member from the Department of Natural Sciences (DCN), actively participates. Their work focuses on interfacial physical chemistry, enzymatic catalysis, biomaterials design, and the characterization of supramolecular systems.
M.Sc. Sergio Hernández Jiménez supports the technical operation and functioning of the laboratory, also affiliated with the DPT, which collaborates in maintaining the specialized equipment and provides technical support for the experimental activities conducted in the lab.
This multidisciplinary academic team strengthens the Surface and Interfaces Laboratory as a robust scientific research platform to generate original knowledge, develop applied technologies, and train highly specialized human resources.
Access Policies and Guidelines
Access, Requirements, and Laboratory Use Regulations
The use of the Surfaces and Interfaces Laboratory is governed by guidelines that ensure the safety of personnel, the proper functioning of equipment, and the integrity of the research spaces. Below are the key aspects regarding access and operation within the laboratory:
1. Access Hours
The laboratory is available for academic and research activities from Monday to Friday between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Access outside these hours is restricted and requires prior written authorization signed by the laboratory supervisor or the corresponding academic coordination.
2. Entry Requirements
Access to the laboratory is strictly limited to faculty, technical staff, authorized students (both undergraduate and graduate), and maintenance personnel with specific tasks. Entry by individuals outside of these categories is not permitted without prior institutional authorization.
3. Recommended Training
To ensure the safe and proper use of the laboratory, it is recommended that users participate in an induction course covering basic safety, general operation, and equipment handling. This knowledge should also be updated whenever new procedures, techniques, or equipment are introduced in the laboratory.
4. General Usage Rules
Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) suited to the activities to be performed is mandatory. This may include lab coats, gloves, safety goggles, masks, and other protective elements. The entry of food, beverages, or any electronic device not directly related to experimental work or scientific recording is strictly prohibited. Failure to comply with these rules may result in temporary or permanent revocation of access to the laboratory.
These provisions aim to ensure a safe, clean, and functional environment for conducting highly specialized scientific activities, fostering a culture of prevention, responsibility, and professionalism among all users.