Development of polymeric nanocarriers in continuous flow for the controlled release of agrochemicals

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"This is a PhD research project in Chemistry. The use of well-defined polymer nanocarriers can promote controlled release of bioactive compounds, e.g. pesticides, whilst reducing the amount of compound required to protect and to enhance the productivity of a given crop. To control loading of the bioactive agents and their subsequent release, it is paramount to develop synthetic strategies of well-defined polymeric nanocarriers whilst mitigating negative environmental impact.The aim of this PhD project is to combine expertise in polymer and nanoparticle synthesis, development of porous materials and advanced scattering techniques (i.e. neutron scattering) in order to improve and optimise desirable properties of bespoke nanocarriers as well as the controlled release of agrochemicals.Specifically, we wish to test whether biodegradable polymer nanocarriers of well-defined size can be prepared using state-of-the-art flow technology. Furthermore, structural characterisation using advanced scattering techniques will allow us to optimise the properties of the nanocapsules and further control the release of biologically active compounds."