NSERC-DFG SUSTAIN: Engineering Pickering emulsions toward sustainable microgels

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Walter Richtering, since 12/2023
• Subject Area: Preparatory and Physical Chemistry of Polymers
• Term: since 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 534228322

In this research project, we engineer particle-laden interfaces to control and develop sustainable chemical synthesis processes. Fluid interfaces are ubiquitous and essential to physiological functions at the single-cell or organism level. In engineering, they are present in foods, cosmetics, oil recovery, etc. As such, Particle-stabilized interfaces have attracted attention from the scientific community. Having particles at interfaces introduces stimuli-responsive capabilities to control processes and design new advanced materials. For example, magnetic fields can manipulate emulsion droplets if the particles at interfaces are magnetically susceptible. Thus, transport and control of the morphology of the emulsion can be achieved on demand by turning on or off an external field. For example, particle-stabilized interfaces improve sustainability in chemical synthesis processes by removing the need for surfactants and reducing energy costs (cold processing). However, the characterization of interface microstructural properties during the application of external stimuli (e.g., magnetic or electric fields, reactions, pH, etc.) is in its infancy, limiting the commercialization of these advanced materials and processes. This is mainly because interfaces are very delicate and difficult to characterize. This research program focuses on this challenge taking advantage of international renown expertise and top-notch facilities. The Canada-Germany team undertakes this challenge with a multiscale approach moving from interfacial microstructural details to transport processes at particle-stabilized droplets, to macroscopic mechanical properties. We combine modelling and novel in-situ characterization approaches specifically for interfaces, anticipating groundbreaking advancements to achieve the rational design of interface-dominated processes. The developed knowledge will also contribute to Canada's action of 'helping industries develop and adopt clean technology in their journey to net zero' by enhancing sustainable chemical synthesis processes.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Canada
• Partner Organisation: Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
• Cooperation Partners: Professor Dr. Minne Paul Lettinga; Professor Giovanniantonio Natale, Ph.D.
• Ehemaliger Antragsteller: Dr. Andrea Scotti, until 12/2023