Synthesis and characterization of novel functional polymers and polymeric nanocomposites

The objective of the project is the synthesis and characterization of new functional polymers, hydrogels and composites for high-performance materials, as well as for materials for applications in medicine, dentistry and pharmeuticals. The investigations are directed toward the synthesis of polymers with complex structures and tailored properties. Homo- and copolymers of linear, branched, hyper-branched and cross-linked structure will be synthesized by classic and controlled radical polymerization and polycondensation, in the absence or presence of microwaves. Special attention will be paid to obtaining polymers that may bond to nanoparticles with the aim of functionalizing the particle surface or compatibilizing organic and inorganic materials. The structure, size and properties of the polymers will be determined by standard methods (IR and NMR spectroscopy, GPC, viscometry, electron microscopy, DSC, TGA, dynamic-mechanical rheometry, etc.). The swelling of polymer materials, their potential application to immobilize active substances, the release efficiency of active substances from the polymer and antimicrobial activity will be investigated. The enzymatic degradation of biodegradable polymers will be studied. Surface-modified filler particles or nanoparticles will be added to the synthesized polymers and to commercial polymers. The thermal and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites and polymer networks will be investigated focusing on polymer-filler interaction.