Esmeralda Laurén: Tailoring biopolymers for thermal/photo curable coatings

The aim of this project is to develop sustainable epoxy-based anticorrosive coatings using chemically modified lignin. Lignin, a renewable, aromatic biopolymer, is used as a potential bio-based alternative to conventional fossil-derived polymers in coating applications. 

This research explores how chemical modifications of lignin influence the properties and performance of epoxy-based coatings. The modified lignin and final coatings are characterized using a range of analytical and surface characterization techniques to understand their structure, thermal behavior, morphology, and coating performance.  

A particular focus is placed on evaluating the anticorrosive performance of the coatings for potential application in demanding environments, such as marine and industrial infrastructure. 

The overall goal of this project is to contribute to the development of more sustainable, high-performance protective coatings with a reduced reliance on fossil-based raw materials.