R & D PROJECTS
Extraction of Lignin from Wood Waste and Development of Lignin-Based Bioplastics
Extraction of Lignin from Waste Newspaper
Newspaper Waste Recycling to Paper Foam
Medical / Dental Retainer Recycling
Development Of Green Polymers For Use In Nanoparticles And Pigments Production For Medical Applications
Background: A variety of nanoparticles have been synthesized in polyol solvents such diethylene glycol (DEG) and triethylene glycol (TREG). These nanoparticle materials include:
– Gold, silver, platinum, and palladium nanoparticles
– Lanthanide nanoparticles
– Metal oxide nanoparticles
– Semiconductor nanoparticles
Purpose: To investigate if Recyclopol can replace DEG/TREG as a lower-cost, greener solvent for nanoparticle synthesis.
Approach: Synthesize CdSe semiconductor nanoparticles (called “quantum dots”) in TREG as a reference, then adapt the methodology to the unique chemical and physical characteristics of Recyclopol.
Benefit: Quantum dots are of interest for the development of biomedical diagnostic technologies, biological imaging probes, and optoelectronics (e.g. Sony Triluminos TVs). A cheaper and greener synthesis both economical and sustainable.
Color photograph of reaction aliquots under UV light. The numbers correspond to the spectra above.
Quantum Dots Prepared in Tri-ethylene Glycol Vrs Recyclopol
Photoluminescence emission spectrum of CdSe nanoparticles at different time points in the reaction.
Color photograph of reaction aliquots under UV light. The numbers correspond to the spectra above.
Promising results: Synthesis of quantum dots is possible in Recyclopol. Further method development is required.
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