Master degree in Materials Science

Cyclodextrins and maltodextrins are starch-derived safe, low cost and renewable materials, showing remarkable complexation properties mainly towards organic molecules. If reacted with suitable linkers, they act as polyfunctional monomers leading to the formation of complex polymer structures, such as hyper-branched or crosslinked polymers, having superior complexation properties. Depending on the chemical structure of the linker used, dextrin-based polymers can adsorb both non-polar molecules and polar compounds.

In this project, cyclodextrins and maltodextrins will be reacted with linkers to prepare eco-friendly polymers for environmental applications. Green synthesis methods will be performed using only water as a solvent. The polymers will then be used as sequestering agents for the adsorption and removal of pollutants, such as aromatic compounds and heavy metal ions, from wastewaters.