PhD student on exchange programme with Xi’an Jiaotong University

His research focuses on the targeted upcycling of conventional PET bottles. Through chemical modification, the degradation products of PET waste are processed in such a way that they can be homogeneously blended with natural biomaterials such as lignin and alginates. The result is a novel bio-hybrid material. Combining recycled plastic with natural raw materials produces sustainable materials with impressive properties, which are ideally suited for applications in innovative packaging or flexible electronics.

In this project, Lukas Jenner develops bespoke experimental designs for students, plays an active role in laboratory analyses and compares practical results with theoretical simulations. This is a striking example of how forward-looking research and practice-oriented teaching complement one another.