Materials Systems Engineering
Major research interests
We make use of electrospun materials with piezoelectric properties to address various challenges in sustainable energy and environmental applications. The research interest lies at the intersection of materials science, chemistry, and process engineering, with a focus on developing innovative solutions for CO₂ capture, polymer conversion, and process monitoring. The use of electrospun materials with tailored morphology and functionality offers a promising approach to creating high-performance systems that are energy-efficient, environmentally compatible, and economically viable.
Possible research projects (not exhaustive)
Sustainable Electrospun COF Enhanced Nanofibres for High Efficiency CO₂ Adsorption
This project aims to develop biodegradable electrospun sorbents enhanced with covalent organic framework (COF) dispersions and piezoelectric functionality for high-efficiency CO₂ adsorption. The goal is to create solid sorbents that combine high performance with environmentally compatible and economical processing, potentially increasing adsorption rates and capacities without additional energy input.
(Possible collaboration partners: Prof. Sundmacher, Prof. Scheffler, Prof. Stein, Dr. Vidakovic-Koch, Prof. Tsotsas)
Molecular Level Mechanisms and Morphology Control in Electrospun Piezo Catalytic Polymers for Low Energy Polymer Conversion
This project focuses on the experimental development and molecular level analysis of electrospun piezo catalytic polymer fibres for selective bond scission and (re)functionalisation reactions. The goal is to uncover how structural features influence charge generation, radical formation, and the resulting reaction networks, and to develop low-energy catalytic pathways for sustainable polymer conversion.
(Possible collaboration partners: Prof. Sundmacher, Prof. Hamel, Prof. Stein, Dr. Vidakovic-Koch, Prof. Tsotsas), Prof. Rihko-Struckmann
Electrospun Piezoelectric Polymer Sensors for Real Time Monitoring of Catalytic and Depolymerization Processes
This project aims to develop electrospun piezoelectric polymer sensors for real-time monitoring of catalytic and depolymerization processes. The goal is to create self-powered sensing materials capable of converting mechanical deformation into electrical signals that reflect local reaction conditions, and to engineer these materials to detect subtle shifts in reaction state, catalyst activity, or mechanical excitation during polymer conversion.
(Possible collaboration partners: Prof. Sundmacher, Prof. Benner, Prof. Sager, Prof. Kienle)
