She emphasizes the importance of studying the smallest components of plastics

“Together we can develop joint research projects with industry and other research institutes,” she said. She believes that within her own research it makes it possible to do interdisciplinary research via polymer chemistry technology into the spread of microplastics, which is her main area of ​​interest.

Juliana Aristéia de Lima will do research and teach, as well as supervise students and doctoral students at the university.

Juliana Aristéia de Lima comes from Brazil, where she began her studies and research career. After her doctorate in 2008, she first became interested in chemistry within materials science. She then delved into topics such as elastomeric polymer blends and nanocomposites with an emphasis on how they can change and how they are affected at different temperatures.

“My goal has always been to find solutions to reduce the environmental impact by using biocompatible or biodegradable materials”, she said.

Among other things, she has focused on the degradation processes of rubber and the recycling of plastic materials.

“This led to new perspectives on microplastics and my research has contributed to new insights into this, both from an analytical point of view and in the search for more responsible use of plastics in terms of how they crumble and break down”, she explained.

“My great interest in electron microscopy has also led to my developing of new methods, that can be applied in several different areas. I think this can give the students new perspectives both through the techniques and their knowledge to solve the problems that exist in society”, she said.

What will your lecture in May be about?

“I will talk about polymer technology with a focus on biodegradation and environmental sustainability and how electron microscopy plays an important and decisive role, from the conception of the polymer material, to the study of its fragments.”