Functional Polymers
The Functional Polymers (FP) unit addresses the synthesis, formulation and processing of polymers to achieve specific properties enhancements and multi-functionality through both physics-based experimental and numerical approaches, including molecular modelling. The unit pursues funding and carries out research through industrial contracts and competitive projects sponsored at the Luxembourgish and European levels and is organised into two research groups focused on 1) the realisation of sustainable polymeric materials and 2) the chemistry and physics of smart / responsive polymers.
Research challenges
- Design of polymeric materials such as thermoplastics, thermosets, elastomers and (nano)composites with advanced functionality, high performance, enhanced safety and sustainability in mind, in service of industrial and societal needs
- Valorisation of alternative feedstocks (biomass, waste materials, etc.)
- Development of novel, safe (re)processing and advanced manufacturing technologies, including additive manufacturing and 3D printing, both for efficiently producing new materials and managing end-of-life
- Generation of the fundamental understanding essential to the control of structure, viscoelastic, mechanical and tribological performance and transport behaviour of polymeric materials and composites through polymer physics, advanced characterisation and molecular modelling
Application areas
- Additive manufacturing
- Adhesives and coatings
- Automotive and transportation
- Biomedical applications
- Electrochemical energy storage
- Electronics and electrical applications
- Gas sorption and gas separation
- High-performance polymeric materials
- Packaging
- Pneumatic Tires
- Space & aerospace
- Structural materials
- Sensing, actuation and energy generation
