Institute of Polymer Nanotechnology

We deal with the functionalisation of plastics by means of micro and nano-structuring of surfaces, chemical modification or additives.

We are a multi-disciplinary institute at the interface between polymer engineering and nanotechnology. An interdisciplinary team is devoted to developing new materials, processes and applications. Functionalisation or functional integration in polymer systems is always the focus of the work.

The Institute of Polymer Nanotechnology is a shared facility with the Paul Scherrer Institute PSI which gives access to clean-room technology and large research facilities. We collaborate closely with the FHNW Institute of Polymer Engineering.

Competencies

Structuring of surfaces

We have expertise covering the entire value chain of micro and nano-structures in the plastics sector.

Functionalisation of surfaces

We deal with the chemical modification of polymer surfaces; electron-beam-induced (grafting) reactions are used in particular.

Clean-room technology

The group at the Paul Scherrer Institute deals with the production of complex surface topographies up to the two-digit nanometre range.

Chemistry and analytics

We are experts in polymeric chemistry (thermoplastics, thermoset plastics and elastomers), chemical plastic modification and plastic-related analytics.

Process engineering

We conceive product and procedure innovations and develop them until they are ready for the market, focussing in particular on high-performance polymers and composites.

Structural mechanics

We answer questions regarding the mechanical behaviour of polymers and composites using a range of appropriate experimental and numerical methods.

Selected projects

Production of a violin support with functional surfaces

Plastics experts at the FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland developed an injection-moulding production process for a violin ...

to Production of a violin support with functional surfaces

Multi-purpose functionalisation of non-woven materials by means of an e-grafting process

Researchers at the FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland are developing a non-woven material with an innovative combination of ...

to Multi-purpose functionalisation of non-woven materials by means of an e-grafting process