Thesis supervisor: Béla Pukánszky
Location of studies (in Hungarian): BME Fizikai Kémia és Anyagtudományi Tanszék Abbreviation of location of studies: BME
Description of the research topic:
Because of the increasing environmental concerns of the public, the interest in biopolymers based on natural and/or biologically degradable polymers is increasing continuously. However, natural polymers often have numerous drawbacks (poor processability, water sensitivity, variable properties), which can be compensated by modification. Accordingly, several of the projects in the group is related to the modification of biopolymers, like the impact modification of PLA, or the use of natural fibers, as well as wood flour for the reinforcement of polymers. Lignin is the second most abundant natural polymer in the world and large amounts are produced as waste in the bioethanol and cellulose industry. We use lignin as the component of polymer blends and modify it chemically to produce new raw materials for the plastic industry. Natural and biopolymers are used in increasing amounts in healthcare as well. In this area we utilize their biodegradability in producing scaffolds for the regeneration of tissues by promoting cell proliferation on their surface. In order to control degradation processes, we study the hydrolytic and enzymatic degradation of biopolymers and incorporate enzymes into the polymers to adjust degradation time. Besides, PLA and PHB, starch and other polymers are studied in this area to produce various medical devices.
Login
