For more detailed information on the actual research of the PCR-group, we refer to our recent list of publications, reviews and patents.
Some examples of actual research domains are:
(most pictures are linked to a pdf file for detailed info)
- Synthesis of new polymer structures based on controlled radical polymerization procedures (ATRP, RAFT) and living cationic polymerizations. Some examples are AB- and (AB)n block copolymers, star-shaped block copolymers, brush-type copolymers and palm-tree structures. The end products are obtained by methods such as ‘click' chemistry, sequential monomer additions in "living" polymerization systems, dual initiator strategy, macromonomer technique, polymer-polymer coupling reactions, grafting onto methods, etc.
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- Synthesis of functionalized polymer architectures and polymeric materials (coatings, foams,…) by combination of ‘click' chemistry with several polymerization techniques such as ATRP, step-growth polymerization and others.
Design of functionalized nano- and microparticles. The nanoparticles have, for example, been used as quite efficient viscosity modifiers for rubbery polymers. Microfluidics are used for the preparation of the functionalized microbeads.
- Development of nanocontainers and novel polymer supports for metals, to be used in the fields of ATRP and ‘click' chemistry (click on right image to view micro-CT movie).
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Development of new approaches towards fast and mechanically resistant polymer materials with thermo- and chemo-responsive properties, for example for the design of novel thermoplastic polyurethanes with shape memory properties.