Formation and degradation of microplastics under simulated environmental conditions: Mechanical and UV stress (C01)

• Subject Area: Polymer Materials ; Analytical Chemistry ; Preparatory and Physical Chemistry of Polymers
• Term: since 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 391977956

C01 investigates within the CRC 1357 the influence of anisotropic geometries such as fibres (1D) and films (2D) as well as added commercial additives on the ageing of the plastics PS, PE, PP and PA6 when exposed to weathering under environmentally relevant conditions. The combination of complementary analytical methods allows changes in the ageing mechanism to be elucidated and the degradation, migration and leaching of the additives or additive fragments. This is central, as the chemical changes influence the toxicity of microplastic (MP). Based on this, monomaterial and multimaterial multilayer films are developed that have a lower environmental impact while maintaining the functional properties. A central control parameter is the additivation of individual layers and their arrangement in the laminate. In this way, we expect to understand synergies or inhibitions in the ageing of the individual film layers compared to the homogeneous film and ultimately to be able to use them. The solution approaches for reducing MP through process engineering, and material design will be consistently supplemented in the 3rd FP by new materials and findings from the other sub-projects.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1357: MICROPLASTICS - Understanding the mechanisms and processes of biological effects, transport and formation: From model to complex systems as a basis for new solutions
• Applicant Institution: Universität Bayreuth
• Project Heads: Professor Dr.-Ing. Volker Altstädt, until 12/2022; Professor Dr.-Ing. Holger Ruckdäschel; Professor Dr. Jürgen Senker; Professor Dr. Peter Strohriegl, until 12/2022