The DFG funded Research Training Group 3076 “Sustainable Hydrogels: From Chemical Structures to Applicability” (SusGel) is dedicated to researching the fundamentals required to use natural polysaccharides as a substitute for synthetic polymers in industrial applications, as well as laying the foundation for the use of polysaccharides from plants and algae in new applications, particularly in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Replacing synthetic polymers with bio-polymers from renewable sources, ideally agricultural byproducts or side-streams of the agro-food industry, will contribute to a sustainable society by following the principles of circular economy. Sustainable polysaccharides from land plants and algae for the production of hydrogels show, however, a large natural variability leading to varying gel properties. SusGel addresses these challenges in an interdisciplinary approach of polysaccharide chemistry, analytics, modelling, and bio engineering applications to overcome these challenges. Research topics concern gelation, behavior of gels during application, and gel aging (with a focus on the behavior under mechanical stress) which reflect the entire life cycle of hydrogels. Tailored, enzyme-based modifications of natural polysaccharides provide innovative yet sustainable starting materials for the production of hydrogels that will serve in food and pharmaceutical applications.

Further information: https://www.susgel.kit.edu

Contact:
Spokesperson: Prof. Dr. Mirko Bunzel, mirko.bunzel∂kit.edu