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All about Intersection of Science & Art | Outreach Project by Alex Kirillov & Research Team at University of Lisbon-IST @MINDlabpt.bsky.social & https://MINDlab.pt | #SciArt & #SciComm for #Science #Education https://instagram.com/ScienceArtHub

The orange and yellow colors of pumpkins are associated with the presence of naturally occurring pigments called carotenes. These are polyunsaturated hydrocarbons that contain 40 carbon atoms and act as photosynthetic pigments. These absorb light in the blue and violet regions and reflect light in the orange and yellow parts of the spectrum, thus defining the respective colors. Certain carotenes, such as beta-carotene (provitamin A), are converted in the body into vitamin A (retinol). This is an essential nutrient we require for vision, skin health, immune function & growth. Carotenes are also powerful antioxidants. Carotenes are abundant in pumpkins and their color intensity often reflects a carotene content. Carotenes are also used as natural food additives and coloring agents. Consumption of carotenes with a source of fat improves their absorption, as they are fat-soluble and insoluble in water.
Terpenes are abundant & renewable biomass-derived hydrocarbons that can be used for generating added-value products with relevance in pharmaceutical and fragrance industries. In this work, we developed new copper-based catalysts and reaction protocols for the mild oxidation of terpenes with molecular oxygen into various value-added products. Research by the MINDlab: Molecular Design & Innovation Laboratory at CQE-IST, University of Lisbon (@MINDlabpt.bsky.social). Funded by the EU ITN project CHAIR: C-H Activation for Industrial Renewal.
Bacterial communication, also known as quorum sensing, is an important communication mechanism used by bacteria to coordinate group behavior. Bacteria release into their environment the signaling molecules called autoinducers. As the bacterial population grows, the concentration of these signaling molecules increases. When a threshold concentration is reached, bacteria detect the signal and initiate synchronized actions. These can include the formation of biofilms, production of toxins, or regulation of gene expression. Quorum sensing helps bacteria to adapt to changing conditions and enhances their survival and pathogenicity. In particular, quorum sensing is essential for the formation of biofilms – the communities of bacteria embedded in a self-produced extracellular matrix. This matrix helps bacteria to adhere to surfaces and provides protection from the immune system and antibiotics. Bacterial communication can also contribute to antibiotic resistance. The research on bacterial communication is thus important for understanding the bacterial ecosystems and combating antimicrobial resistance. Bacteria can communicate not only within their own species but also with other species. Besides, quorum sensing has evolutionary significance as it allows bacteria to constantly adapt to changing environments. An abstract representation of two communicating rod-shaped bacteria is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub For our resent research on sustainable antibacterial materials, see: T. A. Fernandes et al. RSC Appl. Interfaces 2024, 1, 98. https://doi.org/10.1039/D3LF00123G S. W. Jaros et al. ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces 2024, 16, 13411. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsami.3c15606
Rubies are fascinating gemstones that have captivated humans for centuries. Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum. This is an aluminum oxide (Al2O3) that is colorless or white in its pure form. The most prized color for rubies is a vivid, deep red with a hint of blue. However, rubies can range in color from pinkish-red to purplish-red, and their intensity and hue can vary. The red color of rubies is caused by trace amounts of chromium ions (up to 1%) that replace aluminum ions in the crystal lattice of corundum. And the amount of chromium in rubies is directly associated with the intensity of red color. Rubies are closely related to sapphires, which are a different variety of corundum that contains a mix of metal ions (e.g., iron, titanium, chromium, vanadium, magnesium) in trace amounts. These metal ion inclusions are responsible for distinct blue, yellow, purple, or green colors of sapphires. In other words, all non-red varieties of corundum are classified as sapphires. Due to popularity and rarity, rubies are often synthesized in laboratories. Synthetic rubies have the same physical and chemical properties as natural rubies and are indistinguishable without special analytical equipment. However, natural rubies are generally more valuable than synthetic ones. Rubies are also the hardest gemstones after diamonds. Apart from the use in jewelry, rubies have various industrial applications, including in lasers, medical instruments, and cutting tools. An X-pattern of “black rubies” is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Pinene is one of the most abundant and low-cost biomass components that can be used as an attractive and renewable feedstock for generating added-value products with relevance in pharmaceutical, fragrance, and cosmetics industries. In this study, we developed new recyclable catalysts and sustainable protocols for the oxidation of pinene into verbenone and other products. This work is aligned with the goals of reducing waste and using biomass-based raw materials. RSC Sustainability (rsc.li/rscsus) is an interdisciplinary journal published by the Royal Society of Chemistry (@RoySocChem) that is dedicated to sustainable chemistry & technologies for a greener future. Research by the MINDlab: Molecular Design & Innovation Laboratory at CQE-IST, University of Lisbon (MINDlab.pt), in collaboration with Sorbonne Université (France) & Novartis Pharma (Switzerland). Funded by the EU ITN project CHAIR: C-H Activation for Industrial Renewal.
Algae is an informal definition of a large and diverse group of photosynthetic eukaryotic organisms, which include unicellular microalgae, diatoms, and multicellular species. Algae produce nearly half of the oxygen we breathe, thanks to photosynthesis, the same process used by plants. Besides, algae combat climate change as they absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Algae are also highly promising in the area of renewable energy. Scientists are studying them to create biofuels as a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. For example, a lipid part of algae (algal oil) can be converted to biodiesel, while the carbohydrate content of algae can be fermented into bioethanol fuel. Despite various benefits, the cost efficiency of microalgae-to-fuel technologies should still be improved. In the art world, a variety of shapes and vivid colors of algae make them perfect natural subjects for artworks. Artists are exploring algae in innovative ways, from creating visual pieces to using them as sustainable art materials such as algae-based paints and dyes. In sustainable fashion, designers are using algae-based fabrics and dyes, blending style with environmental consciousness. Finally, algae-based components are commonly used in cosmetics and as food supplements. The next time you see a green (or, more rarely, pink) patch in the water, remember, it's a tiny world of wonder.
This phenomenon is known as freezing point depression. When salt (sodium chloride) is added to ice, it dissolves in a thin layer of liquid water on the surface of ice. The presence of salt in liquid water decreases the freezing point of the solution. As more salt dissolves, the freezing point decreases further. This means that the ice becomes even colder to maintain a solid state in the presence of saltwater. Freezing point depression depends on the concentration of solute (salt) in a solvent (water). Ice absorbs heat from the environment when melting. In contrast, water releases energy when solidifying into ice. At the freezing point, these two processes are at equilibrium. When salt is added to water, it also disrupts the formation of the crystal structure of water. This interference makes it more difficult for the water molecules to turn into the solid phase, so they need to be cooled to a lower temperature to solidify. Apart from laboratory and culinary uses (ice cream preparation), this phenomenon of freezing point depression is crucial for winter road maintenance when roads are salted to melt ice and/or prevent its formation. Image shows a color change of salty ice from orange to cyan corresponding to a temperature decrease upon cooling. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Both nerves and neurons are the fundamental components of the nervous system. While neurons refer to individual cells, nerves are considered as a group of neurons interlinked by cord-like nerve fibers (axons) that transmit electric and chemical signals between the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body. Nerves can be categorized as cranial (connected to the brain) or spinal (connected to the spinal cord). In terms of signal transmission, nerves serve as the communication channels for transmitting sensory information from the body to the brain (sensory nerves) and carrying motor signals from the brain to muscles and glands (motor nerves). The human nervous system is composed of billions of interconnected neurons forming a sort of “body’s electrical wiring”. It is divided into the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The latter plays a crucial role in connecting CNS to various body parts. The signals can be transmitted by the nervous system at a speed of up to 100 meters per second. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve that runs from the spinal cord to the toes on each side of the human body. As neurons do not divide or replace themselves, the damage of nervous system can be permanent. Nerve Jewelry: Where Nerves Meet Art. Neurons and nerves are often represented in various art objects including jewelry. An arrangement of nerves into necklaces is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub
While food proteins originate from amino acids and can be water-soluble and easily degradable, silk and nylon are not soluble and thus can be used as fibers. All polyamides feature repeating amide linkages but may have distinct chemical structures. Nylon is a generic name used for a family of different synthetic polymers with a high strength and durability. Nylon production was launched by DuPont in the 1930s, representing the first synthetic and commercially successful thermoplastic derived from petroleum. Nylons can be melted and processed into fibers, shapes, films, and composites, thus resulting in a wide range of applications in everyday products. Nylon is one of the most versatile synthetic materials in terms of applications. Two most common types of nylon include nylon-6,6 formed from adipic acid and hexamethylenediamine as monomers, and nylon-6 obtained via polymerization of caprolactam. A 3D nylon fiber pattern is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub Our research team investigates new catalytic systems for the mild oxidation of cyclohexane to cyclohexanol and cyclohexanone, which are intermediates in the production of nylon-6. For further details, see: Inorg. Chem. 2025, 64, 8668. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.inorgchem.5c00461
Plasma is characterized by the presence of charged particles (electrons, ions) that are affected by electrical and magnetic fields, and this behavior represents the main difference between plasma and gas states. Cold plasma (or nonthermal, non-equilibrium plasma) is the plasma where temperatures of its individual constituents are different. In this plasma, electrons feature high temperatures (>10,000 K) while neutral atoms or ions stay at room temperature. The amount of “overheated” electrons in the plasma is very low and thus this type of plasma can be touchable. Fluorescent lamp is a simple example of a cold plasma object. Cold plasma can generate high-temperature electrons under normal conditions of temperature and pressure. Upon contact with an open environment, these “overheated” electrons can form a multitude of reactive species with a diversity of applications. Video of cold plasma by @ScienceArtHub
Despite its proximity to the Sun, Mercury is not the hottest planet. Venus is the hottest one to its thick atmosphere. Mercury has virtually no atmosphere, so its surface temperatures vary from about 430 °C during the day to -180 °C at night. One of Mercury’s most fascinating features is its heavily cratered surface that resembles the Moon. Mercury also has giant cliffs or scarps, up to a kilometer high and hundreds of kilometers long, formed as the planet cooled and contracted. Video is made from images obtained by MESSENGER spacecraft. Credit: NASA/JPL.
Using sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water, plants produce their own chemical energy (sugars like glucose) and release oxygen. This process is known as photosynthesis and happens inside chloroplasts - plastids in green plant cells packed with chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is a magnesium-containing pigment responsible for the green color of leaves and plants. It absorbs light in the blue, red, or orange regions of the electromagnetic spectrum while reflecting the green light. Photosynthesis is a highly efficient process despite using only a small fraction of solar energy (1-2% of the sunlight received by plants). By absorbing CO2 and releasing oxygen, plants help to reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and combat global warming. A pattern made from avocado leaf images is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Ancient Science Art: Roman Glass from the First Century AD. Murano Glass Museum, Venice, Italy. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Leaves can be used in various ways to produce art, including leaf collage, printing, painting, or carving. The most common green color of leaves is explained by the presence of a pigment called chlorophyll that is vital for photosynthesis (conversion of light, carbon dioxide and water into carbohydrates and oxygen). In the fall, the levels of chlorophyll decline due to changes in temperature, daylight length, and other factors, causing a gradual disappearance of green color. Other colors of leaves become visible, which vary from yellow & orange to red & purple. These colors are caused by different quantities of residual chlorophyll and other pigments that are present in leaves. In particular, purple colors in leaves originate from the pigments called anthocyanins. These are also responsible for the intense colors of many purple, blue, and red flowers and fruits. Anthocyanins are also known for their antioxidant properties. Image shows an abstract leaf art pattern. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Crystallization or solidification of honey is a natural process that occurs in all types of honey. Honey is a supersaturated solution containing more than 80% of sugars (mainly glucose and fructose) and less than 20% of water. When crystallization of honey occurs, it becomes thicker and cloudy, and gets a coarse sugar texture. The crystallization of sugars in honey can be caused by temperature decrease, change of humidity, agitation, and presence of undissolved microcrystals of sugar or remains of polen that can act as centers of crystallization. Despite not having a golden liquid appearance, crystallized honey is perfectly good for consumption and can also be a sign of honey quality. Sugar crystallization in a processed (industrial) honey is generally less common. Placing crystallized honey in a warm water bath for 15-30 min may result in its liquefaction. A honey crystallization pattern is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Image by @ScienceArtHub
This optical illusion was discovered by E. and B. Lingelbach and M. Schrauf in 1994.
Natural (unrefined) brown sugar consists of sugar crystals or powder with a residual amount of molasses (up to 10%). Molasses is a dark syrup obtained from raw sugar during the refining process, typically from sugarcane refining. Molasses can often be added to refined white sugar to produce commercial brown sugar (find a natural one). From a food chemistry perspective, white sugar is almost 100% pure sucrose crystals while brown sugar also contains molasses. The molasses in brown sugar gives it a richer and more complex flavor compared to white sugar. Brown sugar features a pleasant caramel-like taste and aroma, which can greatly enhance and even change the flavor of baked goods and certain recipes. Brown sugar has the ability to retain moisture, which can be beneficial for baking. The molasses acts as a humectant, helping to keep baked goods moist and tender. Brown sugar has a softer texture compared to white sugar. The presence of moisture in brown sugar and its larger size of crystals or agglomerates contribute to a more compact and clumpy texture. Although brown sugar contains some trace minerals and a distinct flavor profile, it should still be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, as excessive sugar intake can have negative health effects. A pattern of illuminated brown sugar sticks is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Background noise is always present in both digital and analog systems, and may affect all types of communications (e.g., audio, video, image, and text). Background noise is also observed as a fluctuation in the instrument’s background signal. This noise may represent a problem for signal quantification when the intensity of desired signals is low. As examples related to chemistry and physics, background noises are commonly seen in mass spectrometry as well as infrared (IR), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis), or nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. In a medical field, examples where background noises are present include electrocardiography, medical ultrasonography (echography), X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An abstract representation of spectroscopic background noise signals is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Ernst Haeckel, Art Forms in Nature.
Crystal engineering is a field of molecular science that focuses on understanding and controlling how molecules are arranged into crystalline solids. The goal of crystal engineering is to design crystal structures that exhibit desired physical and chemical characteristics, such as enhanced solubility, improved drug dissolution, or specific functional properties. In this study, we focused on the synthesis, structural characterization, and antibacterial activity of several uracil derivatives. As one of four nucleobases of RNA (ribonucleic acid), uracil and its analogues represent an important class of bioactive molecules. Our findings contribute to the design of new uracil-based antibacterial agents. CrystEngComm (rsc.li/crystengcomm) is a scientific journal published by the Royal Society of Chemistry dedicated to the design and understanding of crystalline materials. Cover image illustrates a new uracil derivative and its interaction with a bacterial pathogen. For further details, see: Exploring Uracil Derivatives: Synthesis, Crystal Structure Insights, and Antibacterial Activity, CrystEngComm, 2025, 27, 3456, https://doi.org/10.1039/d5ce00362h (Research Paper); CrystEngComm, 2025, 27, 3396, https://doi.org/10.1039/D5CE90075A (Cover).
Typical examples include a yeast-like fungus Aureobasidium pullulans and Serratia marcescens bacteria. Another example concerns Fusarium fungi that are common on spoiled food (bread and dairy products). All these microorganisms can produce pink to red pigments, especially in warm and humid areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. In particular, Serratia marcescens is not always harmful but can pose health risks for someone with a compromised immune system. However, the presence of pink mold in our homes, such as on shower curtains or tiles, is generally more of a nuisance than a health threat, signaling a need for better ventilation and cleaning routines. Serratia marcescens and other bacteria produce a pink pigment called prodigiosin, which has been studied for potential medical applications. Not all pink molds are unwelcome. In cheese making, a different type of beneficial mold, Penicillium roqueforti, can sometimes appear pink. This mold contributes to the unique flavor and texture of different cheeses. Pink Mold: A Moldy Intersection of Science & Art. An abstract pattern of pink mold is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Recent research suggests that living cells can produce and respond to sound vibrations. Unlike human conversations, these sounds are at frequencies much higher than what our ears can hear. Imagine billions of tiny instruments, each playing a note in the melody of life. The vibrations of cells can be due to various cellular processes such as the movement of motor proteins, cellular division, metabolic reactions, or even the flow of ions across membranes. Each type of cell is believed to vibrate uniquely producing a sound that changes when the cell is stressed. Scientists argue that decoding the sound signals of cells could help us to recognize the state of a cell and thus predict the arrival of a disease. The study of cell sounds is called sonocytology and may hold great potential for medical diagnosis and therapy. For instance, certain frequencies are believed to promote healing and cell growth, offering novel prospects for medical science. Besides, plants may also emit sounds, like ultrasonic 'clicks' when stressed. This suggests a potential form of communication or response mechanism within plants. The research on these cellular sounds in plants might be used for enhancing crop growth and protecting ecosystems. The research field on cellular sounds faces several challenges. Detecting and interpreting these signals requires extremely sensitive equipment and sophisticated analytical techniques. The exact mechanisms and roles of these sounds in cellular function are still not well understood. An abstract representation of four “sound cells” is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Green color of plants is explained by the presence of a pigment called chlorophyll that is vital for photosynthesis, which is the conversion of light, carbon dioxide and water into carbohydrates and oxygen. Chlorophyll is present in the chloroplasts of plants and algae. Chloroplasts are plastids in green plant cells packed with chlorophyll and where photosynthesis takes place. Chlorophyll belongs to a family of green magnesium-containing pigments that are composed of a Mg-porphyrin ring, a hydrophobic side chain (phytol tail), and additional functional groups. There are several varieties of chlorophyll with different molecular structures, with the most common forms being chlorophyll-a and chlorophyll-b. Chlorophyll absorbs light in the blue, red, or orange regions of the electromagnetic spectrum while reflecting the green light. In the fall, the levels of chlorophyll in leaves decline due to changes in temperature, daylight length, and other factors, causing a gradual disappearance of green color. This process is known as plant senescence. Other colors of leaves become visible, which are caused by different quantities of residual chlorophyll and other pigments present in leaves. Finally, chlorophyll can be used as a coloring food additive that is labelled in Europe as E140. An abstract pattern of evergreen chloroplasts is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Astrobiology studies the origins of life, which is an interdisciplinary science that combines elements of biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and astronomy. These studies are important for understanding how life emerged on Earth and whether life could exist elsewhere in the universe. While the exact origin of life is still a topic of active research and debate, there are several scientific hypotheses. Abiogenesis (chemical evolution) suggests that life arose from non-living matter through a series of chemical reactions, where simple organic compounds were combined into more complex and self-replicating molecules. RNA World Hypothesis proposes that RNA (ribonucleic acid) played a crucial role in the early stages of life. RNA can store genetic information and catalyze chemical reactions, indicating that it could be the first self-replicating molecule gradually evolving into more complex structures such as DNA and proteins. The "Primordial Soup" concept refers to the idea that early Earth's oceans provided a rich mixture of chemicals necessary for the formation of life. The energy from sources like lightning, volcanic activity, and UV-radiation could mediate the chemical reactions necessary for emergence of life. Another hypothesis, called Panspermia, proposes that life may have originated elsewhere in the universe and spread to Earth through comets, asteroids, or other means. Stromatolites are layered structures formed by the growth of microbial communities. Fossilized stromatolites dating back 3.5 billions of years provide evidence of early life on Earth. These structures suggest that simple, single-celled organisms like bacteria and archaea were among the first life forms. A pattern resembling stromatolites is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Light can become polarized when it is reflected, refracted, or scattered. For example, light that reflects off a smooth surface such as a lake or a mirror tends to be horizontally polarized, while light that passes through a polarizing filter becomes polarized in the direction of the filter's polarization axis. Polarized light has a number of important applications in science and technology, including in optical microscopy, analysis of materials, mineralogy and geology, biomedical imaging, astronomy, astrophysics, and 3D movie technology. It is also commonly used in polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and improve visibility. In chemistry, polarized light is applied to measure the light plane rotation caused by optically active (chiral) substances. Chiral molecules have two distinct forms (stereoisomers) that are called enantiomers. These feature identical chemical and physical properties but different interaction with polarized light. When polarized light passes through a chiral substance, it becomes circularly polarized and rotates either to the left or right. This property is extremely important in organic synthesis, drug development and pharmacology, as the efficacy and safety of the majority of drugs depends on their optical purity (enantiomeric purity). Finally, polarized light has notable applications in art, which range from conservation and authentication to enhanced visualization and photography. A kaleidoscopic polarized light pattern is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub
NanoArt depicts both synthetic and natural structures, including molecules, particles, materials, and living organisms. These images are usually produced by electron microscopy or 3D rendering, and further enhanced by artistic stylization, digital painting, and color processing. Examples of NanoArt include nanosculptures, nanolandscapes and microscopic images, which can look as flowers, crystalline forests, or futuristic architecture. One of the aims of NanoArt is to familiarize people with nanoscale objects and scientific advances in their synthesis, manipulation, and application. Nanomaterials can be ultra-light, highly porous, and have large surface areas. These features make them perfect for a large diversity of applications, including water purification, drug delivery systems, sensing, solar cells and batteries. An artistic representation of synthetic nanomaterial resembling polyhedral flowers is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Rust is a corrosion product of iron and its alloys. Rusting occurs when iron or steel react with oxygen (air) and water (moisture) to form hydrated forms of iron(III) oxide and oxide-hydroxide. As a result of this process, there is gradual deterioration (oxidation) of iron, producing typical reddish-brown or yellowish-brown rust colors. Several factors influence the rate of rust formation, such as the presence of moisture, oxygen concentration, temperature, pH level, and the type of iron or alloy (steel). Higher moisture levels, salty water, increased exposure to oxygen, and acidic environments accelerate the rusting process. Various methods are employed to prevent the corrositon or minimize the formation of rust, including the application of a protective coating, such as paint or a layer of zinc (galvanization). Rust can have detrimental effects on iron and steel structures, causing the loss of strength, structural damage, and potential safety hazards. In art, rust and corrosion are explored intentionally to achieve unique aesthetic effects and highlight concepts related to time, decay, and transformation. Rust can be used as a medium, where iron oxidation is promoted to create textures, patterns, and aging effects. Rust and corroded objects can also be incorporated into mixed media artworks and collages. Rust is often associated with industrial landscapes and urban decay. Some artists integrate rusted elements to depict urbanization, deindustrialization, and the transformation of urban spaces. A fragment of rusted metal surface is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub
Melting point represents an important physical parameter of solid substances, which depends on their type (e.g., molecular or ionic compound, metal or alloy, covalent crystal), chemical structure, intermolecular interactions, and many other factors. Melting point measurement is often used to identify purity of organic compounds. For metals and alloys, melting point determines the type of their manufacturing process and applications. We all know that the melting point of water is 0 °C. By comparison, the melting points of other compounds might look extreme. For instance, tungsten possesses the highest melting point among all metals (3,422 °C). On the other side, there is mercury that melts at -39 °C and thus appears as the only liquid metal at room temperature (25 °C). Some compounds don't have a melting point. For example, solid carbon dioxide (CO2), known as "dry ice", turns directly to gas phase at -78.5 °C in a process called sublimation. A piece of melting iron is shown herein. Image by @ScienceArtHub