Modelling and optimisation of sustainable saloplastics

About the Project

Saloplastics are salt complexes of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes, that can be processed like thermoplastics, and used as membranes and coatings in a wide range of applications. Appealing features of saloplastics include solvent-free processability in saline solutions, where the salts weaken the inter-polymer interactions enabling the creation of various morphologies including membranes and films. Sustainable polyelectrolytes can be derived from sustainable sources such as chitosan from shell-fish waste and alginate from seaweed, which allows for a green delivery of cargo thus reducing microplastic pollution [1].Due to their inherent bio-compatibility and non-toxicity, bio-polymer salopastics are particularly useful for pharmaceutical and food applications.

In this project, we will build on previous biopolymer modelling work at the University of Strathclyde to model the formation of saloplastics [2,3]. The computational models will allow the systematic exploration of the impact of pH, salt type and concentration on the plastic properties such as mechanical strength and selective inhibition of diffusing species. From this understanding, we aim to optimise the properties for use in engineering applications, such as delivery of functional cargo and drug release.

The project is suited to students interested in computational modelling with real world applications, supervised by experienced scientists while collaborating with experimentalists and reaching out to industrial partners through conference

In addition to undertaking cutting edge research, students are also registered for the Postgraduate Certificate in Researcher Development (PGCert), which is a supplementary qualification that develops a student’s skills, networks and career prospects.

Information about the host department can be found by visiting:

www.strath.ac.uk/engineering/chemicalprocessengineering

www.strath.ac.uk/courses/research/chemicalprocessengineering/

Funding Notes

This PhD project is initially offered on a self-funding basis. It is open to applicants with their own funding, or those applying to funding sources. However, excellent candidates will be eligible to be considered for a University scholarship. Students applying should have (or expect to achieve) a minimum 2.1 undergraduate degree in a relevant engineering/science discipline, and be very motivated to undertake highly multidisciplinary research.

References

[1] Løvschall, K. B., Velasquez, S. T. R., et al. Enhancing stability and efficacy of Trichoderma bio-control agents through layer-by-layer encapsulation forsustainable plant protection. Advanced Sustainable Systems, 8(7), 2300409 (2024).

[2] M Hudek, K Johnston, K Kubiak-Ossowska, VA Ferro, PA Mulheran. Molecular Dynamics Study of Chitosan Adsorption at a Silica Surface, J. Phys, Chem. C128, 21531 (2024).

[3] A Wood, PA Mulheran, K Johnston. A molecular dynamics investigation of oligomer structure and cation behaviour in pure and blended alginate systems(in preparation).