Ongoing Projects

Our research group is structured into two primary areas, each dedicated to advancing knowledge in polymer chemistry and innovative approaches in science education.

In polymer chemistry, our focus lies on biobased polymers and composites, the modification of natural polymers, and the development of green synthetic methods. In science education, we collaborate closely with the Centre of Learning and Teaching (CLT) on projects related to STEM teaching and learning.

Science Education

TINKER (2024-2026)
Erasmus+ Programme 'Partnerships for Innovation - Forward Looking Projects'
with Prof. Lucy Avraamidou from the Centre for Learning and Teaching ( CLT )

The project's primary objective is to develop courses that will enhance the capacity of high school teachers and university instructors to design authentic and gender-inclusive learning experiences for teaching and assessing informatics competencies. These courses will utilize a blended learning methodology, allowing instructors to participate in both online and face-to-face sessions. The training program will be developed through an innovative set of pedagogies, AI-based instructional methods, and challenge-based learning approaches.

TINKER website: https://tinker-project.eu

Polymer Chemistry

Amylose-polyunsaturated fatty acid supramolecular complexes
Jintao Hu (j.hu@rug.nl)

Starch, a widely available and inexpensive natural polymer material, is used as the host molecule to self-assemble with small molecular guests such as essential fatty acids. This process enhances the stability and bioavailability of small active molecules. The research system encompasses two main approaches: the basic host-guest complex system (nanoparticles) and the layer-by-layer self-assembly system (granular hydrogels). Complex conditions and molecular fine structure will be studied as significant factors influencing system properties. Simultaneously, multi-scale molecular simulations will guide experimental design and reveal underlying mechanisms. The performance of nanoparticles and particle hydrogels as drug delivery systems will be evaluated through in vitro digestion experiments.

Green synthesis of (hetero)cyclic biobased monomers
Syaiful Ahsan (s.ahsan@rug.nl)

The production of polymers, particularly petroleum-based plastics, is consistently growing each year, posing significant environmental challenges. Utilizing biobased plastics can reduce reliance on petroleum and minimize environmental impacts by enabling the production of recyclable and/or biodegradable polymers. In this project, we study the polymerization of (hetero)cyclic building blocks derived from renewable resources using green synthesis routes. We explore the thermal and mechanical properties of the rendered novel polymers, as well as their biodegradability.

Furan chemistry for the design of sustainable polymeric materials
Luan Moreira Grilo (l.moreira.grilo@rug.nl)

The development of polymer materials from renewable feedstocks is a critical step toward a more sustainable economy. In this context, furans have gained significant attention as promising renewable platform molecules. This project investigates various aspects of furan chemistry, including the green synthesis of new furan monomers and their application in creating novel biobased polymers. Additionally, the research explores the use of furan-based Diels-Alder chemistry to design dynamic network polymers, aiming to develop materials that exhibit tunable and responsive properties.