Characterisation of Novel Polymers from Terpenes

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The aim of the research is to study a new family of polymeric materials synthesised from Terpenes - molecules present in citrus and other waste. The student will carry out the first characterisation of totally new plastic materials made from renewable sources, and will help to identify and shape possible markets and applications. The student will work in a multidisciplinary environment in collaboration with other PhD and postdoctoral researchers in engineering and chemistry, on the characterisation and the development of experimental techniques for small scale polymer samples, including mechanical, thermal and rheological properties. Materials will be synthesised by collaborators from the Chemistry department in small batches prior to scale-up. By understanding some of the structure-property relationships, feedback can be provided to the synthesis to help to develop better and more targeted materials for specific applications. The project will help to establish Nottingham as a centre of expertise in the development of new polymers. It has direct relevance to two of the Global Research Themes: Sustainable Societies (Industrial Biotechnology) and the Transformative Technologies (Advanced Molecular Materials).