The use of renewable resources for the production of biobased polymers presents a great technical challenge. Biomass is composed of an intricate mixture of complicated components which are hard to handle. We readily accept this challenge as it provides us with the opportunity to decrease the use of oil and thereby diminish mankind's environmental footprint.
Polymers can also be made more sustainable by reducing the environmental impact of the manufacturing processes used. Green Chemistry provides us practical principles to accomplish this: Important examples include reducing waste, using fewer toxic substances and saving energy. Green Chemistry is about making the right choice for our future.
If we look at ecosystems we see that all nutrients are re-used. Nature lets nothing go to waste. We want to help close the industrial feedstock loop by designing novel biobased polymers with recycling as a central requirement. After our polymers are discarded, they can be broken down to their individual components. These innocuous components can then be fed back into the manufacturing process as raw materials.
It is very difficult for biobased polymers to compete with traditional polymers when the only selling point is sustainability. In order to justify a higher price, biobased polymers have to also display better performance. We therefore focus on improving traditional mechanical properties, like strength and thermal resistance. We furthermore design new material with dynamic properties such as self-healing properties.
The best days of my life! :)
Ab CitakI had a mentor who was knowledgeable and helped guide my work
Stef van BremenI really loved my internship!
Sylvia Kockxkeep me informed on the progress of this interesting subject
Rick HagenaarsIt was a great place to work. I really enjoyed it, I wish it has lasted a bit longer!!
Arjan van Tiggelen
