The objective of the research is to investigate the mechanisms of grafting, hydrolysis and subsequent condensation of alkoxy-silanes in complex polyolefin systems, which may or may not contain flame-retardant mineral fillers such as aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, calcium carbonate or mixtures of the same, in quantities typically of 50% or greater.In-depth knowledge of the entire production process, both from the point of view of the chemical reactions described above and involved in the production of the compound, and in close connection with the transformation technology of the polymeric material, represents an essential condition for the optimization of the final product and the environmental impact of its production, including the prospect of identifying chemicals - such as the cross-linking catalyst, but not only - that present more sustainable HSE profiles.For the same general considerations as above, of particular interest is also the identification of the most suitable analytical methodologies for determining the molecular structure of the system and the interactions between the organic and inorganic components, to guarantee improved control of the product, avoiding unnecessary waste due to non-compliant materials.

The candidate for this PhD project must have a good knowledge in polymer science and polymer processing with particular attention to polyolefins

The research team is composed of two full professors (prof. Giuliana Gorrasi and prof. Roberto Pantani) of chemistry and chemical engineering with expertise in the field of polymeric materials, either thermoplastics or thermosettings, for targeted applications with structural and functional properties