Development of Melamine-Based Polymer-Metal Composites for Reactive CO2 Capture and Catalytic Conversion
Investigate advanced melamine-based polymer-metal composites for CO2 capture and catalytic hydrogenation to methanol and higher alcohols. Collaborate internationally to develop scalable, cost-effective reactive capture systems suitable for industrial conditions.
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Project Description
Project Overview
The successful candidate will develop melamine-based polymer-metal composite materials aimed at reactive capture and (thermos)catalytic CO2 conversion. Research includes studying CO2 adsorption capacities and evaluating catalytic conversion performance into methanol and C2+ alcohols under industrially relevant conditions.
This project is a trilateral collaboration between Charles University (Czechia), FAU Erlangen-Nurnberg (Germany), and the National Institute of Chemistry (Slovenia). It seeks cost-effective, scalable reactive CO2 capture systems with tunable surface properties, thermal stability, and high metal dispersion designed for CO2 conversion to methanol and alcohols.
What You Will Do
- Develop novel polymer-metal composite materials based on melamine matrices.
- Perform CO2 adsorption capacity testing and catalytic CO2 hydrogenation experiments.
- Collaborate closely with international partner institutions, including internships.
- Utilize multiple synthetic and analytical techniques to characterize materials.
- Contribute to disseminating findings at international conferences and workshops.
Expected Outcomes
Expected deliverables include advanced composite materials optimized for industrial CO2 capture and conversion, improved understanding of adsorption and catalytic mechanisms under practical conditions, and establishment of scalable synthesis protocols.
Why This Matters
Transforming captured CO2 into valuable chemicals like methanol helps mitigate greenhouse gas emissions while providing sustainable chemical feedstocks. Creating cost-effective, stable reactive capture systems enhances carbon utilization technologies essential for climate goals.
Entry Requirements
How to Apply
Eligibility
Supervisor Profile
Dr. Maksym Opanasenko is a researcher at Charles University specializing in physical and macromolecular chemistry with a focus on catalysis and materials for CO2 conversion. He works on synthesizing novel composite materials for reactive gas capture and catalytic processes. His research bridges synthetic chemistry and applied catalysis with strong international collaborations.