Over the past few months, the lab has made significant contributions in the field of materials science and biotechnology. From bio-based thermosets to 3D-printed hydrogels, these studies could help reshape our understanding of sustainable materials and their diverse applications. Let's delve into the latest publications from BikiarisLab.
In this study, the University of Trento and BikiarisLab investigate renewable fibers by examining the toughening effects of 2,5-Furandicarboxylate polyesters on polylactide. This research holds great potential in advancing sustainable materials for various industries, including packaging and textiles.
Poly(Ethylene Furanoate) (PEF) is a rising star in the world of bioplastics. BikiarisLab explores how different monomer types impact the synthesis and properties of PEF, shedding light on its potential as a green alternative to conventional plastics. This work is part of the PhD Thesis of Johan Stanley and is funded by the Foodtranet project.
In a venture into biomedicine, BikiarisLab introduces a novel chitosan derivative with enhanced antioxidant properties. The research delves into its miscibility in blends and hints at exciting prospects for 3D printing in biomedical applications, promising a leap forward in tissue engineering. This was was part of the PhD Thesis of Georgia Michailidou, which was co-financed by Greece and the European Union (European Social Fund-ESF) through the Operational Programme “Human Resources Development, Education and Lifelong Learning” in the context of the Act “Enhancing Human Resources Research Potential by undertaking a Doctoral Research,” Sub-action 2: IKY Scholarship Programme for PhD candidates in Greek universities implemented by the State Scholarships Foundation (IKY).
4. The Effect of Biochar Addition on Thermal Stability and Decomposition Mechanism of Poly (butylene succinate) Bionanocomposites
Addressing environmental concerns, BikiarisLab investigates the addition of biochar to poly(butylene succinate) bionanocomposites. The results offer valuable insights into enhancing thermal stability and decomposition mechanisms, advancing the development of sustainable materials. This research is conducted with the funding of BIOMAC project in collaboration with University of Edinburg.
In his PhD thesis, Lazaros Papadopoulos collaborates with FH-WKI and Politecnico di Torino to explore UV-curing additive manufacturing of bio-based thermosets. Their study scrutinizes the effect of diluent concentration on printing and material properties, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable production methods. The research work was supported by the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation (HFRI) under the 3rd Call for HFRI PhD Fellowships (Fellowship Number: 6186), and based upon work from COST Action FUR4Sustain, CA18220, supported by COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology).
Tissue engineering takes a leap forward with BikiarisLab's research on 3D-printed chitosan-based hydrogels loaded with levofloxacin. The formulation of new bioinks opens up new vistas in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, promising breakthroughs in healthcare. This was was part of the PhD Thesis of Ioanna Koumentakou, which was co-financed by Greece and the European Union (European Social Fund-ESF) through the Operational Programme “Human Resources Development, Education and Lifelong Learning” in the context of the Act “Enhancing Human Resources Research Potential by undertaking a Doctoral Research,” Sub-action 2: IKY Scholarship Programme for PhD candidates in Greek universities implemented by the State Scholarships Foundation (IKY).
This study investigates the synthesis of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) through ring-opening polymerization of L-lactide, using oligo(butylene succinate) as a macroinitiator at different concentrations (1-15 wt%). Characterization involved spectroscopic techniques, GPC, DSC, XRD, TGA, and nanoindentation. Blocky copolymers with molecular weights of 30-100 kg/mol were obtained, decreasing as PBSu content increased. The introduction of flexible PBSu chains influenced copolymer properties and crystallization behavior. Thermal stability depended on composition and molecular weight. Notably, PLA-PBSu 2.5% copolymers exhibited higher elasticity modulus and strength due to their high molecular weight and crystallinity. These copolymers hold promise for cost-effective commercial production using continuous reactive extrusion.
This work was part of our collaboration with AIMPLAS in the contect of the BIOMAC project.
From renewable fibers to cutting-edge biomedical applications, the lab's research is focused on the future of sustainable materials and biomedical polymers. Stay tuned for more news!