As a researcher at FibRe, I played a crucial role in developing sustainable materials. I fostered collaboration between PhD students and postdocs, supported research into different melt processing techniques and investigated the intricate relationship between material properties and processing conditions. My contributions went beyond the lab as I actively disseminated research findings and worked with industry representatives to promote the adoption of lignocellulosic plastics in the packaging sector. Reference Group: Frohe, Tetra Pak, Battenfeld, Lantmännen, Fasadglas, IKEA & Stora Enso

Focused on the synthesis of complex bio-polyester networks inspired by plant cutin and mimicking the structure of natural cuticles to develop sustainable packaging materials. Hydroxylated and epoxy-hydroxylated C16 and C18 acids esterified with glycerol were used. The films were produced by compression molding and casting and extensively characterized using SEM for surface topography and IR/NMR spectroscopy for chemical analysis. The semi-crystalline structure, thermal stability and mechanical properties were investigated using DSC, TGA, XRD and DMA. In addition, the moisture barrier properties of the films were tested in a cup test, demonstrating their great potential as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional packaging.

Developed advanced ultrafiltration (UF) and nanofiltration (NF) membranes for wastewater treatment and desalination. Focused on enhancing membrane flux, antifouling properties, and durability through innovative material engineering and membrane fabrication techniques. Successfully synthesized high-performance membranes by blending polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) with the addition of SiO2 and TiO2 nanoparticles. Optimized thin-film composite (TFC) NF membranes by modifying UF substrates and incorporating semi-interpenetrating polymer networks (s-IPN) within the polyamide layer. Demonstrated superior performance of developed membranes in comparison to commercial alternatives.My PhD titled _Studies on the Development of High Flux Antifouling Nanofiltration Membranes.

During my internship, I focused on developing innovative nanofiltration membranes for water treatment. I synthesized charged polyamide membranes through interfacial polymerization, carefully selecting monomers to optimize membrane properties. By tailoring the dense layer's morphology, I enhanced hydrophilicity, surface charge, and anti-fouling characteristics. This approach aimed to create membranes with high water permeability and selective ion rejection while maintaining low operating costs and improved stability.

Specialized in the design, development, and characterization of polymeric membranes for sustainable water treatment. Extensive experience in ultrafiltration (UF), nanofiltration (NF), and reverse osmosis (RO), utilizing advanced techniques like phase inversion and interfacial polymerization. Expertise in polymer selection, membrane fabrication, and optimization of flux, selectivity, and antifouling properties. Successfully scaled up membrane production, including large-scale spiral wound modules, and enhanced membrane performance through nanomaterial incorporation and surface modifications. Reference Group: UNIQFLUX- Membranes