Bachelor’s thesis or master’s thesis
© IKVThematic Classification of your Thesis:
Decarbonisation represents a key strategy for climate protection and for mitigating the impacts of climate change. In this context, the exploration of alternative process gases for plasma-based technologies is of particular importance. In particular, the use of CO₂ as a process gas offers the potential to both process climate-relevant gases and to develop functional barrier coatings, for example to limit oxygen permeation.
The deposition of functionalised layers via plasma-based processes enables the targeted modification of polymer surface structures. This allows for precise control of molecular permeation properties, which is especially relevant for packaging materials. At the same time, this approach holds the potential to enhance the recyclability of the materials.
In this regard, the use of silicon-based monomers in plasma processes can make a significant contribution. Due to their extremely thin nanometre-scale coatings and specific chemical composition, these layers have minimal impact on the material’s recyclability. Consequently, functional barrier properties can be achieved without substantially compromising the underlying polymer’s suitability for recycling.
Scope of your Thesis:
A functional barrier coating will be developed using CO₂ as the process gas. The work will begin with a comprehensive literature review to assess the current state of research on the use of CO₂ in plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD) processes.
Subsequently, you will gain hands-on experience with the institute’s in-house LAMPS reactor. Based on the findings from the literature review, a suitable experimental plan will be designed to guide the experimental work. Experiments will then be conducted to deposit barrier coatings on polymer substrates and to systematically characterise their properties.
The performance of the developed barrier coatings will be evaluated in terms of oxygen transmission rate (OTR) and compared with existing barrier systems. Depending on the scope of the project, the CO₂ concentration in the process gas may be varied to investigate its influence on the resulting layer chemistry and barrier performance. The aim is also to provide an initial assessment of the potential economic and process-related benefits of this approach.
I will assist you in familiarising yourself with the broad field of plasma coatings and take your creative ideas into consideration. Close supervision is essential, particularly for thesis projects, and will serve as the foundation for your successful completion.
Work Packages:
| For a Bachelor`s thesis, you will address the following tasks: | Additionally for a Master`s thesis: |
| Literature review on the application of CO₂ in PECVD processes | Investigation of the effect of varying CO₂ concentration in the process gas on the performance of barrier coatings |
| Development and validation of functional barrier coatings through measurement of oxygen transmission rates | Evaluation of the economic potential in comparison with oxygen-based processes |
The specific content and timeline of your thesis will, of course, be determined in consultation with you, taking your prior knowledge into account.
Your Profile:
- Technical or scientific studies (Mechanical Engineering, Business Administration and Engineering, Materials Science, Environmental Engineering, Applied Polymer Science, Applied Chemistry)
- Willingness to learn and engage with new challenges related to plasma technology
- An independent and structured approach to working
- Initial experience in a laboratory environment is desirable, but not essential
AG Plasma offers you a dynamic, young team in which you and your skills can grow during the course of your thesis, with clear objectives and diverse tasks. If you are interested in contributing to the field of plastics processing with your creative ideas, please feel free to get in touch with me!