Sustainable Polymer Synthesis

Our polymer research lab aims to develop the next generation of advanced yet sustainable polymer materials. We design polymers with precisely tunable properties for different applications, while ensuring they are recyclable and environmentally friendly. We synthesize new functional polymers from renewable, bio-based sources using cutting-edge polymerization techniques.

Research

The polymers we create include homopolymers, copolymers, and other advanced architectures produced via methods like controlled radical polymerizations, ring-opening polymerizations, and step-growth polymerizations. We thoroughly study how their molecular structures relate to thermal, mechanical, optical and other properties. Our focus includes stimuli-responsive “smart” materials, specialty coatings, high-performance fibers, and engineering plastics.

An exciting frontier for our group is harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning methods to accelerate our research efforts. We are developing AI techniques to assist in interpreting experimental data as well as making predictions about polymer properties based on molecular structure. This could allow us to more efficiently design new polymers with targeted property profiles.

Education

  • BBM1007 Advanced Macromolecular Chemistry, Master Biobased Materials
  • BBM1011 Organic Coatings, Master Biobased Materials
  • BBM1015 Biopolymers. Master Biobased Materials
  • BBM5000 Master Thesis supervision, Master Biobased Materials
  • PRJ4001 Project Period. Supervision, Master Biobased Materials
  • Member Educational Programme Committee Master Biobased Materials
  • BENP2004 Bachelor Thesis, Bachelor Business Engineering
  • Supervision of Bachelor project periods, Bachelor Maastricht Science Programme