PhD in Synthesis of Sustainable PFAS-Free Polymers for High-Performance Applications

Fluorinated polymers and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used in high-performance applications because of their exceptional thermal stability, chemical resistance and low surface energy. These properties make them essential in demanding applications, including automotive and aerospace components, sealing systems, and chemical processing equipment. However, growing environmental concerns and increasing regulatory pressure, particularly in Europe, are driving the need to replace PFAS with safer and more sustainable alternatives. Developing innovative PFAS-free materials that combine environmental sustainability with outstanding performance under demanding operating conditions represents an important scientific and technological challenge.

Research challenge
In this project, the research challenge will be to design, synthesize, and characterize novel fluorine-free thermoplastic materials that combine the outstanding surface and bulk properties of fluorinated polymers. The project will explore how molecular architecture and surface segregation can be used to achieve low surface energy while maintaining high thermal stability, chemical resistance, and robust thermomechanical properties. By combining molecular design with surface thermodynamics, the research will establish fundamental structure–property relationships linking polymer architecture and interfacial organization to macroscopic material performance. The research activities will involve the synthesis of novel polymer architectures and their comprehensive characterization using chemical, structural, thermal, rheological, and mechanical techniques, complemented by the investigation of surface and interfacial properties. The ultimate goal is to establish rational design principles for sustainable, high-performance thermoplastics suitable for demanding industrial applications, including sealing systems and high-durability components.

An interdisciplinary and international environment
The PhD research will be carried out under the supervision of Prof. Željko Tomović and Dr. Catarina Esteves in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry at Eindhoven University of Technology. You will join the Polymer Performance Materials research group, which focuses on sustainable polymer chemistry. You will also become part of the interdisciplinary Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, which connects TU/e researchers working across polymer science and related fields.

The PhD project will be carried out within the HARFF project, funded by the Dutch Polymer Institute (DPI), which promotes research collaboration between industry and leading universities across Europe. The industrial partners involved in this project are Envalior, SKF, Teijin Aramid, and SABIC Specialties. Through this collaborative network, you will develop new skills, build valuable academic and industrial connections, and explore how your research can contribute to developing future sustainable technologies.

Working at TU/e
At TU/e, you will work in an environment that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on mentality. You will receive personal guidance while having room to develop your own ideas, ambitions, and talents. Together with supportive colleagues from different disciplines and backgrounds, you will push the boundaries of sustainable polymer chemistry and contribute to research with clear societal relevance.

Ideal start date: January 01 2027