Context & Objectives:

In a context where sustainability and circular economy are driving forces in polymer materials, this PhD project proposes the development of multifunctional, biobased and biodegradable polyesters, using green and biocatalyzed processes. The project will focus on levoglucosenone (LGO), a chiral platform molecule derived from wood biomass. LGO, produced at industrial level (50 T/year), offers a unique opportunity to design new functional monomers with tailored properties and controlled biodegradability. Research will cover the entire value chain, from monomer design to polymer synthesis, post-polymerization modification and controlled biodegradation studies. Particular emphasis will be placed on:

• Design of LGO-based monomers that incorporate structural features to adjust reactivity, crosslinking potential and degradability.
• Development of simple, low-waste, enzyme-catalyzed polymerization process.
• Create multifunctional polyesters with tunable thermal, mechanical and degradability properties.
• Explore post-polymerization modifications to fine-tune properties and degradation rates.
• Evaluate closed-loop enzymatic recycling and environmental biodegradation to assess end-of-life options.

This multidisciplinary project brings together organic chemistry, biocatalysis, polymer science and environmental analysis, making it a rich and ambitious subject for a highly motivated PhD candidate.

Collaborations:

This project will benefit from collaborations with BOKU University of Vienna (Austria) and University of Genoa (Italy). These partners will produce bio-based solvents for the enzymatic reactions, bringing additional expertise and resources to support the advancement of the project.

Funding category: Contrat doctoral

Concours ABIES

PHD Country: France