Cyrus Cao, Lucille Verster & Mesbah Ahmad will be joining the group as new PhD students! Cyrus & Lucille are former MS students of the group. Cyrus’s PhD work aims to measure the antiviral efficacy of surfactants and polymers by studying the interaction between surfactants/polymers and viral surrogates (virus-like particles) using surface and colloid chemistry investigative techniques. Lucille will be co-advised by Dr. Pal from the Department of Forestry and Biomaterials in collaboration with the Non-Wovens Institute. Her work would be based on the intrinsic mechanisms of biodegradation and UV-degradation of bio-based polymers in natural environments. Her initial goal would be to improve stability and avoid microplastics release from bio-based polymers. Mesbah’s work would revolve around introducing new principles for eco manufacturing of recyclable soft electronics by seamlessly integrating a select group of biodegradable/recyclable materials and sustainable manufacturing processes, guided by economic and environmental life-cycle assessment (LCA)
Here’s wishing Cyrus, Lucille & Mesbah good luck as they embark on their respective journeys.
Welcome to the group guys! 🙂
