Polymer Lab / Macromolecular Engineering Group

PEOPLE
Prof. CONSTANTINOS TSITSILIANIS Τηλ: 2610 969531 ct@chemeng.upatras.gr
Maria Teodora Popescu (PhD) Τηλ: 2610 997261 theo_popi@yahoo.com
Soledad Lencina (PhD) Τηλ: 2610 997261 mlencina@plapiqui.edu.ar
Sandra Gerbura (Ms) Τηλ: 2610 997261 sadra.2@hotmail.com
Lab Website ---
DESCRIPTION

In the context of Macromolecular Engineering our research activities can be classified as follows:
Design of model macromolecules, i.e. synthesis and characterization of polymers of tunable macromolecular characteristics and functionality via “living” polymerization methods.

Fabrication of nanostructured polymeric materials in the solid state and polymer/carbon nanotubes or graphene nanohybrids.

Study of association phenomena and self-assembly of model amphiphilic block copolymers of various macromolecular architecture e.g. ABA   ABC, CBABC,  A(B-co-C), AnBn and An(B-C)n stars.

Design of stimuli responsive model block copolymers in aqueous media: multi-compartment micelles and injectable reversible hydrogels responsive to pH, ionic strength and temperature.

Design of Block copolymers of specific architecture (e.g. linear, star-shaped etc) bearing biocompatible (e.g. polypeptides) and/or biodegradable segments, capable to form self-assemblies (micelles or transient networks) in aqueous environments in order to be used as drug nanocarriers  suitable for controlled drug delivery potential applications.

TECHNIQUES AND FACILITIES

Macromolecular chemistry

  • argon-vacuum lines for "living" anionic polymerization and other reactions
  • Three glass reactors equipped with glass accessories (e.g. Shlenk burettes)
  • freeze drying apparatus
  • vacuum oven and temperature oven (Heraus)
  • five magnetic thermo-regulated stirrers (IKA)
  • four vacuum pumps (Alcatel)
  • Extra pure water supply unit (Millipore)
  • four chemical hoods

Characterization of Macromolecules

  • Size Exclusion Chromatography with UV and IR detectors
  • Multi angle static and dynamic Light Scattering equipped with a He-Ne laser (Brookhaven)
  • Fluorescence Spectrometer (Perkin-Elmer luminescence spectrometer, LS 50 B)
  • Three automated viscometers (Scott gerate)
  • UV-VIS spectrometer 1601 and UV-lamp for dye-containing polymers (Shimadzu, 1998)
  • Differential Scanning Calorimetry 2820 (TA instruments)
  • Stress Rheometer AR-2000ex (TA instruments)
  • Automated micro viscometer AMVn (Anton Paar)
  • FT-IR Spectrum BX (Perkin Elmer)
  • Tensile Testing 3345 (Instron)
  • Access to advanced microscopy:  SEM, TEM, AFM
PROJECTS-RESULTS