Complex coacervates

In this project, we study the fundamentals and applications of underwater adhesion, using complex coacervates as a model system. On one end, we focus on the incorporation of different functionalities into the coacervate glues: for example, thermoresponsive PNIPAM, adhesive catechol moieties, and hydrophobic charge-protection groups. All these variations have a different effect on the material properties and adhesion. On the other end, we develop applications of these glues, such as a medical adhesive applied on skin via the rehydration of biopolymer-based coacervates.

Biology uses proteins in the construction of materials with many different structures and properties. Examples of these are the tough fibres of keratin and spider silk, or the crosslinked three-dimensional structure of gluten. The properties of these materials depend not only on their chemical structure, but also on their processing. In our project, we use synthetic polyelectrolytes, proteins, and combinations of both to emulate these natural biomaterials. Our aim is to develop high performance fibrous materials that can be processed in green conditions, and to understand the relationship between different processing techniques and their final structure.