Development of new chromatographic methods for biopolymer characterization

Biopolymers, large molecules produced by living organisms such as cellulose, are gaining potential in several industries. Plastics, electronics, and pharmaceutical industries are just few examples of the applications of biopolymers. Development of a reliable, accurate, and fast analytical tool to characterize biopolymers is one of the main challenges facing their large scale production, application, and commercialization. The main goal of this research project is to develop new, reliable, and cost-effective analytical methods to characterize biopolymers. These new methods will help Canadian companies like PolyAnalytik dealing with biopolymers to improve the quality of their products. On the other hand, other industries which use biopolymers
will have a useful tool to evaluate the quality of their raw materials form different sources. For PolyAnalytik, the partner organization, development of new methods will strengthen their position and improve their current capabilities as a quality control and quality assurance analytical laboratory. Canada is always advocating for better environment not only for
Canadians but for the entire world, this project would be a one step toward using fewer petrochemicals and, instead, using more environmental friendly biopolymers. Lastly, this project will provide the industry with new chromatographic methods employing environmentally-benign solvents.

Faculty Supervisor:

Amarjeet Bassi

Student:

Partner:

PolyAnalytik Inc

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Western University

Program: