What We Do
2D Materials
A two dimensional (2D) polymer is a sheet-like mono-molecular macromolecule consisting of laterally connected repeat units with end groups along all edges. As the monomers used for the synthesis of 2D polymers are inherently porous, the final macromolecule is also porous. The degree of uniformity and precise control over pore size depends on the monomer structure, and the conformation corresponds to the repeat units formed within the network. These unique features of 2D polymers make them ideal materials for developing a cost-effective membrane technology, able to sort chemical mixtures based on their size and shape. The project aims to synthesise two dimensional (2D) polymers with designed pore size and functionalities to develop next-generation membrane technologies for the separation of key chemical mixtures, in the vapour (gas) state.
Gas Separation Membranes
Increasing CO2 emissions are believed to be responsible for the extreme climate events currently experienced, and the efficient removal of CO2 is therefore critical. Membrane technology has been considered as an economic and energy-saving alternative capture technology to solvent scrubbing for the mitigation of CO2 from post-combustion exhaust gas. The project focuses on the development of ultra-thin film composite membranes consisting of (i) a highly porous support layer, (ii) an intermediate gutter layer, and (iii) an ultra-thin (<200 nm) top selective layer.
The resultant membranes is expected to display high gas flux and suitable selectivity, which we aim to achieve through the intelligent design of novel polymeric precursors and porous fillers with engineered and highly organised membrane forming characteristics.
Advanced Reversible-deactivation Radical Polymerisation (RDRP)
Recent developments in polymerisation reactions utilising thiocarbonylthio compounds have highlighted the surprising versatility of these unique molecules. The increasing popularity of reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) radical polymerisation as a means of producing well‐defined, ‘controlled’ synthetic polymers is largely due to its simplicity of implementation and the availability of a wide range of compatible reagents. The project aims to develop novel modes of thiocarbonylthio activation to expand the technique beyond the traditional system (i.e., employing a free radical initiator) and push the applicability and use of thiocarbonylthio compounds even further than previously assumed.
Solid Polymer Electrolytes
Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are promising materials for electrochemical device applications, such as high energy density rechargeable batteries, fuel cells, supercapacitors, electrochromic displays, etc. However, conventional dry solid polymer electrolyte systems suffer from poor ionic conductivity. The plasticized, gels, rubbery to micro/nano-composite polymer electrolytes exhibit room temperature conductivity as high as ~10−3 S cm−1, while lacking mechanical robustness and processability. The project aims to develop tough gel systems with novel membrane configurations (e.g. tetra-gels, cryo-gels and double networks) which are expected to present high performance, high stability, and superior rate capability. Such solid polymer electrolytes are expected to be eligible for next generation high energy density all-solid-state batteries.