Projects
At SPRL, our research addresses fundamental and applied challenges in sustainable polymers, rheology, advanced manufacturing, and packaging innovation. Through interdisciplinary collaboration with industry, academia, and government partners, we develop science-driven solutions that advance sustainable materials, optimize processing technologies, and accelerate the transition toward a circular economy.
01
Evolutionary Rheology & Polymer Physics
Understanding how polymer materials evolve during processing and throughout their service life is central to our research. We investigate the relationships between molecular structure, rheology, processing conditions, and material performance to develop predictive frameworks for sustainable polymers. By combining advanced rheological techniques with multiscale characterization and modeling, we reveal how materials change over time and how these changes can be controlled to design more reliable and sustainable polymer systems.
02
Sustainable Polymer Systems
We design and engineer next-generation bio-based polymers with tailored thermal, mechanical, optical, and functional properties. Our research explores polymer synthesis, grafting, blending, compatibilization, and interpenetrating polymer networks to improve the performance of sustainable materials while reducing their environmental footprint. By understanding structure–property relationships, we develop materials that can replace conventional plastics in demanding engineering and packaging applications.
03
Sustainable Packaging Technologies
Our research develops innovative packaging materials that improve product protection while supporting a circular economy. We investigate recyclable and compostable polymers, multilayer packaging systems, smart packaging technologies, and functional barrier materials to enhance food and pharmaceutical preservation. By integrating materials science, polymer processing, and sustainability, we create packaging solutions that combine high performance with reduced environmental impact.
04
Functional Bio-Based Materials
We develop advanced bio-based materials with engineered structures and multifunctional properties for applications beyond conventional plastics. Our work includes hydrogels, aerogels, porous materials, functional biopolymer networks, and responsive materials with enhanced thermal, mechanical, optical, and environmental performance. These sustainable materials have potential applications in healthcare, environmental remediation, energy, separation technologies, and next-generation functional devices.
05
Digital Materials Design & Sustainable Manufacturing
We integrate experimental research with artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computational modeling to accelerate the discovery and optimization of sustainable polymer systems. By combining data-driven approaches with advanced characterization and processing technologies, we develop predictive tools that guide material design, optimize manufacturing processes, and support the development of high-performance, sustainable materials for future industrial applications.