Laboratory of biopolymer technology

Nimetus
Laboratory of polymers and textile technology (until February 28, 2023)
Research classification (Frascati)
Process technology and materials science 4.12
Head of the research group
Keyword
polymers
biopolymers
derivatives of cellulose
polymer technology
polymeric composites
reactive extrusion
textile
electrospinning
nanofibres
conductive polymers
supercapacitors
filtering materials
Overview
The main focus of the research of the laboratory's valorization of environmental resources and development of new energy storage methods for energy efficient environments. The goal is to find sustainable alternatives for fossil resources based polymeric materials by more efficient utilisation of biopolymers and recycled materials in commodity products and in specific fields.Innovative options for the sustainable recovery of cellulose are being sought through the use of new, reusable solvent media, bio-based chemical modification reagents and energy-saving technologies. New, distillable ionic liquids are used as solvents. The use of plant oils for cellulose esterification is being studied and reactive extrusion technology is being developed. The laboratory is the only one in Estonia capable of pilot production by electrospinning technology. To store electrical energy, the laboratory develops durable and flexible supercapacitors for demanding applications, primarily in the space industry. Nanofiber composites containing various polymers, carbon allotropes and ionic liquids are used for this purpose.The electrospinning technology is also applied for developing filter materials based on cellulose derivatives and containing antiviral agents, which prolong their life and make them carbon neutral.The laboratory has a unique pilot production capability in Estonia in such important areas of polymer / plastics technology as compounding,extrusion and injection molding. Composites of thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers with inorganic or bio-based additives are being developed for the efficient use of secondary raw materials in the circular economy.Properties of textile fibres obtained by different recycling methods are being explored and their suitability for manufacturing different types of(textile) materials is being studied. Producing nonwoven materials with recycled textile fibres and thermoplastic virgin fibres is the main method explored. The laboratory also develops durable and sustainable textile and clothing materials.
Publications related to the research group