Biopolymeren

Within the biopolymers research line, we distinguish three focus areas
 

1. Polymerisation of bio-based monomers 
   
   Despite all efforts to achieve a closed plastic loop, demand for new raw materials will remain. It is important that no extra CO₂ is released during production and use. Research is therefore being conducted into new polymers based on renewable raw materials such as sugars and vegetable oils. 
    
2. Biodegradable polymers 
   
   A sustainable scenario for end-of-life products is necessary to stop accumulation of plastics in the environment. For certain applications, biodegradability is a suitable alternative. The professorship conducts research on the biodegradation of polymers such as PHA. 
    
3. Development of vitriol 
   
   Certain plastics are intrinsically not recyclable due to their molecularly knotted structure. To solve this, the professorship is working on the application of a new class of plastics called vitrimers. By using interchangeable (molecular) junctions, vitrimers have a self-repairing ability. This enables repair and recycling, thereby reducing the demand for new raw materials.