Modern packaging often relies on multilayer plastic laminates (e.g., PET/PE/PA/Al) for high performance. However, these structures are not recyclable through existing mechanical or chemical recycling streams due to inseparable layers—98% are incinerated at end-of-life. Debonding-on-demand adhesives are smart bonding materials designed to form strong, durable adhesion under normal conditions but can be easily and controllably separated when triggered by a specific stimulus. This “trigger” can be heat, light, electric current, magnetic field, pH change, or chemical agent, depending on the adhesive formulation. Such systems are particularly valuable in recycling, where reversible or selective disassembly enables easier reuse or material recovery.
One of the main objectives of this internship is to develop a novel generation of demountable polymer adhesives for multilayer packaging. In particular, the project will consist in :
- the development of smart adhesives for model materials to bind and peel off on demand.
- the study of the assembling of model materials incorporating these adhesives.
- delamination and recyclability tests under controlled lab conditions to evaluate the effectiveness of binder-triggered separation.
- the evaluation of the adhesion properties before and after the adhesive degradation.