Research
Research
Recycling of polyolefins such as polypropylene and polyethylene continues to be ineffective because of material degradation in mechanical recycling and high energy expenditure in pyrolysis. In this project, we are developing a new catalytic reactive extrusion process in collaboration with Coperion GmbH, Ruhr-University Bochum, and Maastricht University. By leveraging mechanical shear for polymer degradation at lower temperatures, we aim to enhance catalyst efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and obtain higher-value products. Through the integration of spectroscopy and process optimization, we aim to establish a cost-effective and sustainable chemical recycling method that improves plastic waste utilization and reduces its environmental impact.
CV
CV
2025-present
PhD Candidate at Utrecht University
2021-2024
Master of Science in Chemistry at Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
Master’s thesis: “Reductive amination via direct mechanocatalysis”
Research Assistant on direct mechanocatalysis using gaseous reactants under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Lars Borchardt.
2017-2021
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Germany
Bachelor’s thesis: “Solid-phase synthesis of lipid-anchored diacetylene glycomacromolecules”