Research-led innovation in next generation sustainable polymers
Sustainable Polymer Science & Circular Materials Innovation focuses on designing and advancing polymer materials that minimize environmental impact while maximizing resource efficiency. This field emphasizes the development of biodegradable, bio-based, and recyclable polymers, along with innovative recycling technologies that enable materials to be reused within a circular economy rather than discarded as waste. By integrating green chemistry principles, lifecycle analysis, and advanced material engineering, sustainable polymer science supports reduced carbon footprints, lower dependency on fossil resources, and long-term environmental resilience. The approach bridges scientific research and industrial application to create smarter, cleaner, and more responsible material solutions for the future.
Dr. Purabi Bhagabati
Principal Investigator, Research Ireland Pathway Fellow, School of Chemical Sciences,
Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland.
Abour Our Research
Our research focuses on the design, synthesis, and sustainable processing of advanced polymeric materials, aiming to develop high-performance, environmentally responsible polymers that support circular economy principles and scalable industrial applications.
Research Pillars:
🧪 Sustainable Polymer Synthesis
This pillar focuses on the development of polymers using green and sustainable chemistry principles. Research emphasizes bio-based and renewable monomers, non-toxic catalysts, solvent-free or low-energy processes, and reduced environmental footprints, ensuring that polymer synthesis is both efficient and environmentally responsible.
♻ Circular Materials Design
Circular Materials Design aims to create polymer systems that fit within a circular economy framework. This includes designing materials that are recyclable, biodegradable, or chemically recyclable, enabling repeated use of resources while minimizing waste generation and lifecycle environmental impact.
🧬 Polyethylene Furanoate (PEF) Innovation
Research under this pillar explores Polyethylene Furanoate (PEF) as a next-generation, bio-based alternative to conventional petroleum-derived plastics. The focus includes synthesis optimization, structure–property relationships, and performance enhancement for applications such as packaging, fibers, and barrier materials.
🏭 Scalable Polymerization Strategies
This pillar bridges fundamental research and industrial application by developing polymerization methods that are scalable, cost-effective, and industry-ready. Emphasis is placed on process optimization, continuous and bulk polymerization techniques, and strategies that enable smooth translation from laboratory-scale synthesis to commercial production.