Innovative Biofabrication and Engineering of Functional Biopolymers

Department

Department of Chemistry, University of Bari

Main research activities/topics/projects

In the rapidly evolving field of material science, the biofabrication of biopolymers represents a sustainable approach to the development of high-performance materials. These biopolymers are produced using cutting-edge biofabrication techniques, each designed to yield materials with specific properties tailored for various applications. In this research area, we focus on three key processes in biopolymer fabrication: (i) biopolymers dissolution such as cellulose dissolution [1-2]; (ii) film formation and electrospinning, and (iii) structural characterization using Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) and Small-Angle and Wide-Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS/WAXS).

Film formation is a fundamental technique in biopolymer biofabrication,[3] where thin layers of biopolymer materials are produced for applications that range from eco-friendly packaging to advanced biomedical devices. Electrospinning is a highly versatile method used to create nanofibrous mats from biopolymers. This process involves applying high voltage to a polymer solution or melt, causing the polymer to be ejected through a small nozzle to form ultra-fine fibers, which are then collected as non-woven mats. These nanofibers have potential applications in tissue engineering, filtration systems, and more. 

Master’s students will primarily engage in the dissolution process and in the selection of effective solvents such as ionic liquids or DES and then on the biofabrication processes, gaining hands-on experience in film formation and electrospinning. 

PhD candidates and Postdoctoral researchers will work on both the biofabrication and structural characterization, using advanced tools like Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) to study the mechanical properties of biopolymer materials under varying conditions. They will also employ SAXS/WAXS to explore the nanoscale and molecular structure of the fabricated materials, providing crucial insights into their performance and potential applications.

Opportunities for Brazilian Master/PhD/Postdoctoral Candidates:

This research area offers exciting opportunities for Brazilian Master’s, PhD, and Postdoctoral candidates to be integrated into the innovative field of biopolymer biofabrication and characterization. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, and participants will contribute to the development of sustainable materials that address real-world challenges.

Candidates will acquire expertise in:

Film formation and electrospinning for fabricating advanced biopolymer materials.

Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) for mechanical property evaluation.

SAXS/WAXS for detailed structural characterization of biopolymers at the nanoscale.

Field of Research:

Physical-Chemistry — with a focus on sustainable materials and biopolymer fabrication.

This research area provides a dynamic and collaborative environment for candidates aiming to contribute to the future of sustainable material science.

References:

[1] Gentile, Olsson, Cellulose 23 (2016), 2753-2758

[2] Gubitosi, Duarte, Gentile, Olsson, Medronho

Biomacromolecules 17 (2016), 2873-2881

[3] Gentile, Sixta, Giannini, Olsson

IUCrJ 9 (2022), 492-496 

Working language

The working language for the research group is English, which is mandatory for all research activities, presentations, and collaborations.

Special entry requirements

Basic knowledge of physical chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, and inorganic chemistry, as well as laboratory experience.

Duration in months (min-max)

Master Research: 3 -6

PhD sandwich: 6-12

Post Doc: 6-12