This team project will focus on recycling of polymer wastes, such as polyolefin remnant and polyester remnant, and on processing of environmentally improved textile products. The above two research targets cover two different technical areas, fundamental polymer science and advanced textiles processing. Teamwork is required to implement this research program. Dr. Calamari will provide first-rate training opportunities for the Ph.D. students in these research activities, with particular emphasis on fabrication and finishing of nonwoven products from recycled polymer fibers and agricultural fibers. The research experience and expertise possessed by the faculty team provides an extended platform for student training in fundamental and applied polymer technology.
Macromolecular students are often chemistry-centered.
This makes them familiar with organic chemistry. However, they generally pay less attention to industrial areas of applied polymer materials, such as synthetic fiber manufacture and textile manufacture. Knowledge of manufacture of applied polymer materials and consumer polymer products may act as a bridge between polymer laboratories and markets. This will help the macromolecular students to understand and foresee marketing potential, industrial trends, and consumer needs. Through this team-oriented project, we create a special training opportunity for the macromolecular students to extend research ability and enhance competence in either academic or industrial career.