Harikrishnan Kuroormana Narahri

Investigation of different methods for the chemical compatibilization of biopolymer blends using Epoxidised Soyabean Oil

This project investigates different chemical compatibilization methods for PLA/PBAT biopolymer blends, with and without chemical additives, using modified, unmodified and ESBO-derived oligomers

The primary objective is to improve the compatibilization of PLA/PBAT blends to enhance their chemical and physical properties

Experimental skills:

• Polymer compounding
• Differential scanning calorimetry
• Hot press
• Literature review
• FTIR spectroscopy

Synthesis of Biocompatible HEAm-based hydrogels for implant coatings.

The project successfully synthesized HEAm-based photocrosslinkable terpolymers and anchor polymers as non-toxic coatings for titanium implants. In addition, two photocrosslinkers, BPAm and BPQAm, were synthesized in bulk with high purity and yield. The copolymers were compared by their chain length and molar mass distribution using GPC analysis, across different solvent mixtures and thermal initiators.

Experimental skills:

• GPC analysis
• H-NMR
• Photocrosslinking
• Scientific writing
• Hydrogels
• Multistep organic synthesis
• UV-crosslinking
• Short column chromatography
• Thin layer chromatography

Synthesis of different functionalized hydrogels for the physical and chemical immobilisation of theranostic agents

Functionalized hydrogels were synthesised for wound dressing. HEAAm-based cross-linkable copolymers were
synthesised for the Chemical and physical modification of theranostic agents.

Experimental skills:

• Post-polymer modification using active esters
• Synthesis of crosslinkers and surfactants
• Organic synthesis
• Column chromatography
• 13C-NMR spectroscopy

Surface modification of polymer films and evaluation of their anti-fogging properties

Surface modification of polymer films by HEAAm-based cross-linkable copolymers and its subsequent study of its anti-fogging properties by cold fog test.

Experimental skills:

• Free radical polymerization
• Plasma surface treatment
• Cold fog test
• Synthesis of hydrogels
• Polymer NMR analysis