Background information
Polyurethane (PUR) and epoxy coatings play an essential role in protecting and enhancing materials in a broad range of industries. Their durability, chemical resistance and strong performance make them highly valuable—but these same properties also hinder recycling and biodegradation. When biodegradable materials are coated with PUR or epoxy, they often lose their ability to decompose, creating end-of-life challenges.
Industry partners are therefore exploring biodegradable coating alternatives. However, developing coatings that can perform well during use and degrade efficiently across different environments remains a major challenge. This internship investigates how pretreatment techniques—such as acidic or alkaline treatments—can increase the structural accessibility of coatings and support biodegradation.
About MNEXT and the Biobased Resources & Energy Research Group
MNEXT accelerates the materials and energy transition by connecting SMEs, students, researchers and lecturers through applied research. We bridge innovation and society through collaboration and real-world impact.
You will work within the Biobased Resources & Energy research group, which focuses on the valorisation and sustainable transformation of residual streams from nature, agriculture and industry.
Assignment Description
In this internship, you will study how pretreatment influences the biodegradation behaviour of PUR and epoxy coatings.
Your main activities include:
1. Literature review and theoretical background
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Understanding pretreatment methods for coatings
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Gaining insight into optimal pretreatment conditions (pH, temperature, chemicals)
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Learning biodegradation testing procedures using OECD standards
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Developing foundational knowledge of relevant chemical analyses
2. Pretreatment trials
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Applying acidic and alkaline conditions to improve structural accessibility
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Determining optimal pretreatment parameters
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Using analytical tools (e.g., TGA, FTIR) to monitor changes in functional groups and coating properties
3. Biodegradation trials
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Performing aerobic biodegradation tests using OxiTop® systems
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Monitoring pressure changes to evaluate biodegradation kinetics
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Comparing biodegradation behaviour of treated vs untreated coatings
Research question
“How do pretreatment methods influence the biodegradability of PUR and epoxy-based coatings, and which conditions most effectively support end-of-life degradation?”
Desired Skills
We are looking for a student with:
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A background in chemistry, chemical engineering, environmental engineering, environmental sciences, or a related field
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Interest in biodegradation, coatings and applied chemistry
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Hands-on laboratory experience; familiarity with analytical techniques is a plus
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Experience in data analysis, reporting and presenting research findings
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Motivation to contribute to sustainable material innovation
Supervision
You will be supervised by researchers from MNEXT – Biobased Resources & Energy, with additional knowledge support from industrial project partners. Regular guidance and progress meetings will ensure successful completion of the project.
Practical Details
Duration
20 weeks
Compensation
€350 per month
Working Language
English