Graduation Works at Research Area Chemistry of Raw Material and Products
We are constantly able to offer interesting project topics for BSc and MSc theses with a focus on material flow analysis, life cycle assessment, sustainability assessment concerning renewable resources, especially wood/wood products.
Background: The wood industry is increasingly recognising the importance of more sustainable and renewable additives. Conventional wood adhesives, which are often derived from synthetic and fossil resources, raise concerns about their toxicology, environmental impact and sustainability. Bio-based adhesives derived from renewable resources offer advantages in this regard and can also increase process safety and recyclability while reducing carbon footprint. This research initiative aims to investigate the use of sugar-derived polymers for the formulation of environmentally friendly and effective adhesives for wood-based applications.
Methodology: This research employs laboratory experiments conducted within the "Wood Chemistry" and "Wood Technology" research groups. The experimental procedure unfolds in multiple steps:
Preparation of the Adhesive: The sugar-based adhesive formulation will be mixed and subjected to pre-condensation through heating before applying to the plywood. The chemical analysis of the produced adhesive will be performed using mid-IR spectroscopy. In addition, crosslinking assessment will be conducted via Evolved Gas Analysis (EGA). The rheological properties of the developed adhesives will be examined using a rheometer.
Application and Mechanical Testing: In the wood technology laboratories, the formulated adhesive will be applied to plywood using hot pressing. Mechanical performance will be evaluated under both dry and wet conditions (e.g. lap shear tensile test).
Supervisors/Contact:
Prof. Jan Willem Van de Kulien; vandekuilen(at)hfm.tum.de,
