Polyphenols Chemistry & material Science laboratory (PPM)

Research group 

Claudia Crestini, Full Professor
Matteo Gigli, Associate Professor
Massimo Sgarzi, Associate Professor

Web site: https://www.unive.it/ppm

Research topics

Valorisation of plant biomass (lignins, tannins, polysaccharides)

The research is focused on processes of reactive extraction, functionalization and valorization of lignins, tannins and polysaccharides. More specifically, innovative extraction processes are developed by contemporary functionalization - via sustainable green processes including biocatalytic ones - of the various components of the wood for a direct valorisation by the modulation of their chemical-physical characteristics. The objective being the development of specific innovative stimuli responsive materials with increased performances.

Structural elucidation of lignins, tannins, humins

The full exploitation of plant biopolymers emerging from modern biorefinery processes is limited by the poor understanding of their structure due to their intrinsic structural complexity. The PPM group develops robust and reliable innovative analytical protocols for the determination of the chemical-physical characteristics of lignins, tannins and humines, combining one and two-dimensional quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, chromatographic and calorimetric techniques, possibly coupled with targeted fractionation strategies.

High added-value micro- and nano-structures from (waste) biomass 

Aiming at bridging nanotechnology with sustainable growth, we devote many research efforts on the study of biomass-derived micro- and nano-structures combining high performances with excellent bio- and eco-compatibility. Our goal is to achieve a full control over the final characteristics of the prepared materials by properly selecting both the starting resources and the synthetic strategies. Our major interests include the generation and characterization of (hybrid) microcapsules and nanoparticles for the entrapment and release of active compounds and electrospun (carbon) nanofibers to be used for food/feed, environmental, energy and biomedical applications.

Innovative high-performance thermoplastics and thermosets from renewable resources

This research activity deals with the design and development of innovative bio- based materials to be employed either as commodities or high-performance specialties for a wide range of uses. More specifically, we work on active and biodegradable packaging materials, selective membranes for batteries, green coatings, and biocompatible polymers and hydrogels for biomedical purposes. By adopting ad hoc synthetic and post-functionalization approaches, we modulate the physicochemical characteristics of the prepared materials to satisfy the specific requests of the targeted application.

Last update: 18/02/2025