PhD Position: Advanced Crosslinking Processes for Polymeric Materials

This PhD position at the Institut de Science des Matériaux de Mulhouse focuses on advancing crosslinking processes for polymeric materials using external energy sources like UV, LED, and near-infrared (NIR) radiation. The research aims to understand how activation conditions influence polymer network formation and final material properties, comparing different crosslinking technologies under controlled experimental settings. The project bridges fundamental science and industrial applications, offering a unique collaboration between academic research and industry partners. Ideal candidates should have a strong background in chemistry, materials science, or polymer engineering and a passion for experimental research at the science-to-application interface.

• Investigate the kinetics and conversion of polymerization processes under various irradiation conditions (UV lamps, LED, NIR, and electron beam sources).
• Determine the impact of wavelength, intensity, and energy dose on polymer network formation and properties.
• Characterize polymer network structures and crosslink densities using advanced techniques like RT-FTIR/Raman spectroscopy, DSC, and DMA.
• Evaluate thermal, mechanical, and adhesion properties of the resulting materials.
• Study inhibition phenomena, particularly those related to oxygen and interfaces.
• Analyze the influence of material thickness, pigments, and fillers on crosslinking efficiency.
• Develop and apply computational models to correlate irradiation conditions with reactive species generation and material properties.
• Translate research findings to more complex, industrially relevant polymer formulations.
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners to bridge fundamental research with practical applications.