Polyolefins
The Polyolefins research programme encompasses the entire spectrum of the knowledge chain. The aim is to create the knowledge base necessary to support an ever-expanding range of applications.
Polyolefin-based materials can be customised for many different applications: from ultra-rigid thermoplastics to high-performance elastomers. This wide range of performance is achieved due to a variety of polyolefin molecular structures that share common features of high atomic efficiency in synthesis, low cost, excellent properties, long lifetime, and easy recyclability.
The mission of this Programme is to support and coordinate integrated pre-competitive or explorative research projects, on polyolefins, along the whole knowledge chain. From (homogeneous and heterogeneous) catalyst synthesis and immobilisation, through catalytic olefin polymerisation, down to polyolefin characterisation, processing, and end-use evaluation. Care for materials and process sustainability, from the perspective of a Circular Economy, is a pervasive characteristic of the research Programme.
Focus areas
Circular Economy solutions for Polyolefins
The key focus of this sub programme is on mechanical recycling and chemical recycling processes, non-chemical recycling, and non-mechanical methods of recycling, while preserving quality and purity of recyclates. The aim is to develop a new concept of recycling design especially based on polyolefins, among others, to circumvent the multi-layer complexity of PET/EVOH/PE composites. Either through polymer design or specific processing steps, with adjusting O2/CO2 barrier properties. Polyolefin modification based on renewable sources is another route to establishing these circular economy targets.
Polymer structure, properties and processing
Understanding, modelling and predicting structure-processing property relationships in polyolefin-based polymer systems.
Polymer reactor engineering
Studying various reactor and technology unit operations to develop a quantitative description and acquire a thorough understanding of the crucial aspects of olefin polymerisation processes.
New methods and exploratory research
New polymerisation and polymer characterisation methods, high-throughput screening and experimentation, embryonic research and concept development.
Catalysis
Investigating, screening and developing (novel) homogeneous and heterogeneous catalyst systems, as well as new approaches for the immobilisation of molecular catalysts, new co-catalysts and activators.
For more information on the research programme, the benefits of participation and your role as an industrial partner, please contact us.
