Multiblock copolymer synthesis for nano-engineered materials. This project aims to develop methodology for environmentally friendly and industrially applicable synthesis of new types of advanced polymeric materials comprising multiblock copolymers. Polymeric materials play an important role in society with applications from bulk plastics to advanced technological applications. This would enable the creation of advanced materials with specific engineering targets and applications ranging from nan ....Multiblock copolymer synthesis for nano-engineered materials. This project aims to develop methodology for environmentally friendly and industrially applicable synthesis of new types of advanced polymeric materials comprising multiblock copolymers. Polymeric materials play an important role in society with applications from bulk plastics to advanced technological applications. This would enable the creation of advanced materials with specific engineering targets and applications ranging from nanomedicine to materials science.Read moreRead less
Novel barrier products: synthesis design using controlled radical polymerization in dispersed systems. Personal barrier products (eg surgical and industrial rubber gloves) are currently manufactured using emulsion polymerization synthesis methods that have evolved little in 50 years. A dramatic new method for controlling polymer architecture, developed by a team led by the CI and Dulux for paints, also has the potential to tailor-make barrier products, from less hazardous raw materials. This pro ....Novel barrier products: synthesis design using controlled radical polymerization in dispersed systems. Personal barrier products (eg surgical and industrial rubber gloves) are currently manufactured using emulsion polymerization synthesis methods that have evolved little in 50 years. A dramatic new method for controlling polymer architecture, developed by a team led by the CI and Dulux for paints, also has the potential to tailor-make barrier products, from less hazardous raw materials. This project commences the fundamental research for understanding the mechanisms involved in using this method with butadiene, and the mechanical properties of the resulting novel block copolymers. This science would later be applied by the industrial partner to significantly improve their barrier products.Read moreRead less
Exploiting the self-assembly of hydrophobin proteins to engineer functional nanostructuring surfaces. There is an increasing world-wide demand for advanced nano-biomaterials with novel properties. We will use natural hydrophobin proteins to coat nanodevices and make them more compatible with biological systems. Hydrophobin coatings will be applicable to biosensors, medical devices, diagnostics and drug delivery systems. The research will lead to an understanding of the basic mechanisms of protei ....Exploiting the self-assembly of hydrophobin proteins to engineer functional nanostructuring surfaces. There is an increasing world-wide demand for advanced nano-biomaterials with novel properties. We will use natural hydrophobin proteins to coat nanodevices and make them more compatible with biological systems. Hydrophobin coatings will be applicable to biosensors, medical devices, diagnostics and drug delivery systems. The research will lead to an understanding of the basic mechanisms of protein self-assembly and will have application outcomes that contribute to Australia being an important player in the field of nanotechnology. This is critical for Australia's long term competitiveness and productivity in and beyond the 21st century.Read moreRead less