The second research topic concerns the design of sustainable materials used for example in the field of renewable energies (off-shore wind turbines) or for structures in marine environment. Particular attention is devoted to the development of new biobased polymer networks and composites such as bio-vitrimers, bio-hydrogels or cellulose-reinforced composites.
The understanding of the mechanics behind the durability of cross-linked coatings and composite materials must be supplemented by an end-of-life plan or integration into the circular economy through thermoset material recycling or shaping. Vitrimers embody these principles, combining the mechanical properties of thermosets in operation with the malleability of thermoplastics, which is necessary for recycling and self-repair. In the marine sector, interest is focused on epoxy or polyurethane vitrimers, whose chemistries have proven their durability. The network engineering implemented thanks to the selected chemistries is aimed at controlling the activation of dynamic covalent bonds as a function of temperature, mechanical stress and environment. Specifically, we develop expertise in fluorescence and Raman spectroscopies to investigate the kinetics of reversible covalent bonding with molecular and macromolecular dynamics.