| Description |
The plastic waste treatment and a sustainable use of synthetic polymers is one of the major environmental challenges of the 21st century. Polyisocyanurate (PIR) foams are highly rigid foams primarily used for thermal insulation in construction, refrigeration, and other industries. They are produced by reacting polyols (which are typically derived from petroleum-based products) with isocyanates, resulting in a foam that has excellent insulating properties and resistance to fire and heat. PIR foams are chemically similar to polyurethane foams, but they have higher degree of isocyanurate content, which enhances their thermal stability and fire resistance. Recycling PIR foams is therefore challenging because their covalent structure is highly crosslinked and contains hydrolytically highly resistant structures that do not easily undergo chemical depolymerization. The aim of the PhD topic is to study the degradation behavior of PIR foams with the aim of finding a suitable method for their chemical recycling (solvolysis). The PhD candidates should have good communication skills in English (both in speaking and writing), should be able to work both in a team and independently. Active participation on foreign internships, trainings and scientific conferences is expected. |
