Novel methods for recycling: synthesis of degradable polymers and degradable pressure-sensitive adhesives

Labels, sticky tape, and graphic films are widespread materials. But the adhesives used in them cannot be reused or recycled. Exploiting Surrey expertise in degradable polymers, this project proposes an innovative approach toward adhesives that can be switched into non-sticky and solution-processable products on demand. Funding is available for two PhD projects at Surrey, one in Chemistry and one in Physics, starting January 2024. Both researchers will be working closely together on the synthesis of degradable polymers and pressure-sensitive adhesives. These are adhesives that bond with the application of pressure and without the need for solvents or heat. Sticky tape is a common every-day PSA use, but similar adhesives are also used in the cardboard, label, and graphics industry with a huge, and growing, global market. Unfortunately, there is currently no recycling strategy available for PSAs, because they contain a network of cross-linked polymer chains. This crosslinking is permanent: even if a PSA is fully removed from a surface, the adhesive components remain insoluble and sticky. This is a particular challenge in industry, for example during the recycling of cardboard and glass. This project will explore novel routes for the degradation and potential recycling of PSAs. The strategy involves the synthesis of novel monomers that undergo radical ring-opening polymerization and can instal weak links into the backbone of vinyl polymers. The polymer synthesis and characterization will take place in the Polymer Chemistry research group led by Dr Peter Roth. The subsequent fabrication and characterization of pressure-sensitive adhesives will take place in the Soft Matter research group led by Professor Joe Keddie. While the work can be split into a chemistry and a physics side, it is possible for the two PhD students to be trained in both areas and benefit from the interdisciplinary project.

You will need to meet the minimum entry requirements for our PhD programme. Usually, you should hold a first-class, upper second class (or international equivalent) Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in chemistry, material science or a related subject. Ideally you will have experience (or at least a strong interest) in polymer chemistry. Postgraduate applicants whose final year of study was completed at a UK higher education institute do not have to provide further evidence of English Language.

Soft Matter Group