Prof Dr Cyrille Boyer

University of New South Wales, Australia

Scientia Professor Cyrille Boyer is Associate Dean (Research and Training) for the Faculty of Engineering and an Australian Laureate Fellow at the University of New South Wales, who is specialized in synthesizing functional macromolecules for applications in nanomedicine, advanced materials, and energy storage. He has pioneered photoinduced electron/energy transfer – reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (PET-RAFT) polymerization (an efficient living radical polymerization which can be activated by light), synthetic bioactive macromolecules (such as antimicrobial polymers), and 3D printing methods for precise control over nano- and macro-structures. He has coauthored over 450 articles, which have generated over 44,500 citations, resulting in H-index of 118 (Google Scholar). Boyer's work has earned him over 30 prestigious awards including the 2016 ACS Macro Letters/Biomacromolecules/Macromolecules Young Investigator Award, 2018 IUPAC-Polymer International Young Researcher award, 2015 Lefevre Award from the Australian Academy of Science, and the 2015 Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Science (one of the Prime Minister Prizes for Science). A Highly Cited Researcher every year since 2018, he has also been named among Australia’s top 250 researchers and recognised as a national leader in polymers and plastics by The Australian newspaper.

ENGINEERING NANOSTRUCTURED MATERIALS VIA 3D PRINTING WITH FULLY RECYCLABLE RESINS

Cyrille Boyer^a,*

^aUniversity of Birmingham

Corresponding Author:cboyer@unsw.edu.au

Abstract

Currently, there are no straightforward methods to 3D print materials with nanoscale control over morphological and functional properties. In this talk, a novel approach for the fabrication of materials with controlled nanoscale morphologies using a rapid and commercially available Digital Light Processing 3D printing technique will be presented. The approach uses a controlled/living radical polymerization technique, more specifically, reversible addition-fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT) polymerization, to control the topologies of the polymers.^[1-2] In this talk, we report a rapid visible light mediated polymerization process and applied it to a 3D printing system.^[3] Following the optimization of the resin formulation, a variety of 3D printing conditions will be presented to prepare functional materials.^[4] The mechanical properties of these 3D printed materials were investigated under different conditions, showing that the control of the polymer structure can affect the performance of these materials.^[5] Furthermore, the polymer networks were able to be reactivated after the initial 3D printing process, which allowed the post functionalization of the printed materials via secondary photopolymerization processes, enabling to introduce information.^[6] Finally, by controlling the polymer architecture, we were able to precisely control the nanostructure of these 3D printed materials via a polymerization induced microphase separation.^[7] The effect of nanostructure on 3D printed material properties will be discussed as well as their potential applications in drug delivery and energy storage, such as their use as solid polymer electrolytes for supercapacitor application. Finally, we will discuss a new approach for the recovery of resin after 3D printing enabling us to recycle these 3D printed materials.

Keywords: Photopolymerization, PET-RAFT, 3D printing

References

[1] A. Bagheri, C. M. Fellows, C. Boyer, Reversible Deactivation Radical Polymerization: From Polymer Network Synthesis to 3D Printing. Adv. Sci. 2021, 8 (5), 2003701.

[2] Z. Zhang, N. Corrigan, A. Bagheri, J. Jin, C. Boyer A Versatile 3D and 4D Printing System through Photocontrolled RAFT Polymerization. Angew. Chem. Inter. Ed. 2019, 58 (50), 17954-17963.

[3] Z. Zhang, N. Corrigan, C. Boyer A Photoinduced Dual-Wavelength Approach for 3D Printing and Self-Healing of Thermosetting Materials. Angew. Chem. Inter. Ed. 2022 134 (11), e202114111

[4]. X. Shi, J. Zhang, N. Corrigan, C. Boyer, Controlling mechanical properties of 3D printed polymer composites through photoinduced reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Polym. Chem. 2022, 13 (1), 44-57.

[5]. K. Lee, N. Corrigan,C. Boyer, Rapid High-Resolution 3D Printing and Surface Functionalization via Type I Photoinitiated RAFT Polymerization. Angew. Chem. Inter. Ed. 2021, 60 (16), 8839-8850; V. Bobrin, K. Lee, J. Zhang, N. Corrigan, C. Boyer, Nanostructure Control in 3D Printed Materials. Adv. Mater. 2022, 34 (4), 2107643

Prof Dr Elizabeth Gillies

Western University, Canada

Elizabeth Gillies is a Professor and Canada Research Chair in Chemistry and Chemical & Biochemical Engineering at the University of Western Ontario. She earned her B.Sc. from Queen's University and Ph.D. from UC Berkeley under Jean Fréchet, followed by postdoctoral work at the University of Bordeaux with Ivan Huc. Joining Western in 2006, her research focuses on biodegradable and self-immolative polymers, stimuli-responsive materials, coatings, and polymer assemblies for diverse applications. She has received awards including the Macromolecular Science and Engineering Award (CIC) and the E.W.R. Steacie Memorial Fellowship (NSERC). She is an Associate Editor at Biomacromolecules.

SELF-IMMOLATIVE POLYMERS: CHEMISTRY AND APPLICATIONS OF STIMULI-RESPONSIVE DEPOLYMERIZATION

Elizabeth Gillies^a,*

^aWestern University

Corresponding Author:egillie@uwo.ca

Abstract

Degradable polymers are of growing interest for many areas, including biomedical applications, smart materials and devices, and to address the challenges associated with plastics pollution. Significant progress has been made using backbones such as polysaccharides, polyesters, and a growing number of bio-based polymers. However, in some cases it is desirable to be able to control precisely when and where polymers degrade and to access their degradation under a diverse range of conditions. Self-immolative polymers are a growing class of degradable polymers that undergo controlled end-to-end depolymerization following a stimulus-mediated backbone or end-cap cleavage (Figure 1) (1, 2). This presentation will describe the development of self-immolative polymers based on cyclization-elimination mechanisms (3, 4) and those which depolymerize due to their low ceiling temperatures (5). Advantages and disadvantages of different backbones will be discussed. In addition, the potential application of these polymers in applications such as nanopatterning, hydrogels, and self-assemblies that can encapsulate and release nucleic acids will be presented.

Keywords: self-immolative, stimuli-responsive, degradable, hydrogel, self-assembly

Figure 1. Overall design schematic for depolymerization of a self-immolative polymer.

References

1. Gong, J.; Tavsanli, B.; Gillies, E. R. Annu. Rev. Mater. Res. 2024, 54, 47-73.

2. Deng, Z.; Gillies, E. R. JACS Au 2023, 3, 2436-2450.

3. DeWit, M. A.; Gillies, E. R. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2009, 131, 18327–18334.

4. Deng, Z.; Gillies, E. R. Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2025, 137, e202420054.

5. Fan, B.; Trant, J. F.; Wong, A. D.; Gillies, E. R. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2014, 136, 10116–10123.

Prof Dr Jian Ping Gong

Hokkaido University, Japan

Jian Ping Gong is a Distinguished Professor at Hokkaido University. She holds a degree from Zhejiang University and a Doctorate in Engineering from the Tokyo Institute of Technology. Since joining Hokkaido University in 1993, she has become a leading figure in soft matter science. Professor Gong is the recipient of several high-profile accolades, notably the IUPAC-DSM Materials Sciences Award (2014), the Chemical Society of Japan (CSJ) Award (2022), and the APS Polymer Physics Prize (2023). Her pioneering work spans tough double-network hydrogels, self-healing systems, the mechanochemistry of self-growing hydrogels, friction and adhesion.

DESIGNING FUNCTIONAL HYDROGELS VIA BIO-INSPIRATION

Jian Ping Gong^a,*

^aHokkaido University

Corresponding Author:gong@sci.hokudai.ac.jp

Abstract

The design of soft materials, such as gels and elastomers, is inherently complex. It demands careful selection of building blocks (e.g., monomers) and precise determination of their arrangement, yielding a vast design space with myriad possible combinations. Compounding this challenge, soft materials exhibit intricate behaviors governed by the interplay of weak molecular interactions and thermal fluctuations. This complexity leads to structure-property relationships that span multiple time and length scales, with mesoscale structures being critical to the emergence of material functions. However, mimicking the multi-component, hierarchical structures of biological tissues offer a great avenue for developing innovative synthetic hydrogels. This presentation will highlight the challenges and opportunities in synthesizing hydrogels that achieve the complexity and functionality of their natural counterparts. Our discussion will cover examples, including tough double network hydrogels (1), metabolic-like hydrogels(2), and underwater adhesive hydrogels(3).

Keywords: soft materials, hydrogels, high strength and toughness, self-growth, under water adhesion

References

1. X. Y. Li, J. P. Gong, Nature Reviews Materials, 9, 380–398 (2024).
2. T. Matsuda, R. Kawakami, R. Namba, T. Nakajima and J. P. Gong, Science, 363, 504-508 (2019).
3. H. G. Liao, S. Hu, H. Yang, L. Wang, S. Tanaka, I. Takigawa, W. Li, H.L. Fan & J. P. Gong, Nature, 644, 89–95 (2025)

Prof Dr Jin Huang

Southwest University, China

Mr. Jin Huang obtained Ph.D degree in Wuhan University, and serves as the full-professor in Southwest University (China). He carried out scientific research at Institute of Chemistry (CAS), Wuhan University of Technology, Institut National Polytechnique de Grenoble. He focuses on "Polymer-Centered Soft-Matter Materials" and "Sustainable Chemistry and Materials" for biomass resources utilization, structure-function integration, etc. The research on "cellulose nanocrystals-based materials" achieved progress including high-performances strategies of nanocomposites, optical enhancement of non-conjugate assemblies, and ordered long-range promotion of asymmetrical porous materials. So far, he has published over 270 peer-reviewed papers, and edited 3 monographs and wrote 8 book chapters.

CELLULOSE NANOCRYSTAL MATERIALS INNOVATION: INDUSTRIALIZATION EXPLORATION ORIGINATED FROM FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH ON H-BONDS NETWORK AND MULTI-LEVEL ASYMMETRY

Huang Jin^a,b,* ,Lin Gan^a,*

^aSouthwest University,

^bShihezi University

Corresponding Author:huangjin@iccas.ac.cn, swucgl@swu.edu.cn

Abstract

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) have garnered significant attention due to unique 1D rod-like asymmetrical morphology highly crystallinity with inner dense H-bonds, and remarkable surface reactivity, laying the foundation for material innovation and industrialization. Moreover, their commendable biocompatibility, biodegradability and biomass-acquisition endeavor competitiveness in sustainability. We have been consistently exploring diverse strategies to propel the exploration of innovative materials centered around H-bonds network in CNCs, as well as multi-level asymmetry of nanoparticles, assembled arrays, and manufactured porous materials. Primarily, the repertoire of surface chemical modification techniques and controllability strategies for CNC has expanded significantly to consolidate the substance and structure basis of materials development. Beyond manipulating molecular structures and physicochemical properties, the methodology extends to spatial and functional effects-oriented "surface molecular engineering" depending upon rigid support and ordered active sites derived from crystalline with ordered chain arrangement; and, especially to overlay the molecular asymmetry level of functional groups distribution on the surface of asymmetrical rigid CNC rod. Therefore, combined with surface modification methods, the nanoparticle-level asymmetry of CNC contributes to specific cellular endocytosis for delivery carrier, curvature difference effect for magnetic and photothermal enhancement, etc., and achieves predominant mechanical enhancement with low loading-level percolation for “nanocomposite” materials. Integrated with H-bonds network, the asymmetry researches of CNC-based materials are advanced as uniaxial orientation array-level for structural monochrome of “assembly” materials, and as orientation and negative Poisson's ratio macroscopic porous-level for electromechanical conversion elevation of constructing long-range order in “manufacturing” materials. These endeavors collectively serve as the cornerstone for the imperative integration of CNCs in industrial products. In summary, our investigations have not only shed light on the exceptional properties of cellulose nanocrystals but have also facilitated the emergence of cutting-edge methodologies for their utilization in diverse industrial applications.

Keywords: Cellulose Nanocrystals, Asymmetry, H-bonds network, Materials Innovation, Industrialization Exploration

References

1. Li, S; Liu, C.; Chen, W.; Huang, J.; Gan, L. Adv. Funct. Mater., 2025, 2418425.

2. Shi, Z.; Yang, D.; Zhou, Y.; Chen, X.; Gan, L.; Huang, J. Carbohydr. Polym., 2024, 324, 121539.

Prof Dr Moon Jeong Park

Pohang University of Science and Technology, South Korea

Moon Jeong Park earned her B.S and Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Seoul National University. She was a Postdoctoral Fellow at UC Berkeley. She joined the faculty of Chemistry at the Pohang University of Science and Technology in 2009 and became a Full Professor in 2018. Her research focuses on elucidating the interplay of morphology and transport in nanostructured charged polymer materials based on a fundamental understanding of molecular interactions. She serves as an Associate Editor for Macromolecules (ACS). Recent recognitions include the 2025 Science Prize of POSCO TJ Park Foundation of Korea, the 2024 Star (Science Technology and Researcher) Award of Ministry of Science of Korea, the 2021 American Physical Society DPOLY Fellow, 2017 American Physical Society Dillon Medal, and 2016 IUPAC Young Polymer Scientist Award, and 2016 Young Scientist Award of Ministry of Science of Korea. She was also selected as the 15th Female Scientist and Engineer of the Year Award of Korea.

END-GROUP CHEMISTRY: PATHWAYS TO NETWORK MORPHOLOGIES AND SUPERIONIC POLYMERS

Moon Jeong Park^a,*

^aPohang University of Science and Technology

Corresponding Author:moonpark@postech.ac.kr

Abstract

End-group functionalization has become a powerful and versatile strategy in polymer science, allowing precise tuning of intrinsic polymer properties, such as thermal transitions, solubility, and crystallization, without altering the polymer backbone. In our group’s work, we have shown that end-group interactions can direct polymer self-assembly, enabling the formation of thermodynamically stable, highly frustrated three-dimensional network structures. I propose revising traditional block copolymer phase diagrams to incorporate end–end interactions and end-group arrangements. When end-functionalized block copolymers exhibit strong end–end associations, network phases such as gyroid, diamond, and primitive can occupy a significantly expanded phase window, replacing the lamellar structures typically expected. This underscores the powerful role of end-group chemistry in shaping functional nanomaterials. This concept also provides a pathway for developing superionic polymers by strategically designing charged end groups that finely tune molecular interactions. Such interactions decouple ion relaxation from polymer relaxation, overcoming the trade-off between ionic conductivity and mechanical strength seen in many solid-state polymer electrolytes. These insights highlight the transformative potential of end-group chemistry for next-generation polymer materials and provide a foundation for designing functional nanomaterials for emerging applications, including solid-state battery electrolytes, mechanical metamaterials, and optical metamaterials.

Keywords: End-Group functionalization

References

1) Hojun Lee, Sangwoo Kwon, Jaemin Min, Seon-Mi Jin, Jun Ho Hwang, Eunji Lee, Won Bo Lee, and Moon Jeong Park*, “Thermodynamically Stable Plumber’s Nightmare Structures in Block Copolymers”, Science 2024, 383, 70.

2) Hojun Lee, Jihoon Kim, and Moon Jeong Park*, “Block Copolymer Electrolytes with Double Primitive Cubic Structures: Enhancing Solid-State Lithium Conduction via Lithium Salt Localization”, ACS Nano 2025, 19, 1251.

3) Xuelang Gao, Hojun Lee, Woongsik Choi, Yunsoo Shim, Hyung Min Chi, and Moon Jeong Park*, “Superionic Disulfonic Acid Polymers”, Adv. Funct. Mater. 2025, 2501998.

Prof Dr Makoto Ouchi

Kyoto University, Japan

Makoto Ouchi received his Ph.D. degree from Kyoto University in 2001. He then joined Toyota Central R&D Labs, where he engaged in the development of poly(lactic acid)–based automotive resins. In 2004, he moved to Kyoto University and began his academic career as an Assistant Professor. He was promoted to Associate Professor in 2010 and subsequently served as a PRESTO researcher of the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) in the “Molecular Technology” program (2013–2017). In August 2017, he was appointed Professor in the Department of Polymer Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University. He currently serves as an Associate Editor of Polymer Journal. His research interests focus on precision polymerization to explore the fundamental nature of polymers.

LIBRARY SYNTHESIS OF PRECISION POLYMERS VIA RATIONAL MONOMER DESIGN

Makoto Ouchi^a,*

^aKyoto University

Corresponding Author:ouchi.makoto.2v@kyoto-u.ac.jp

Abstract

We have rationally designed pendant-transformable monomers to enable the library synthesis of precision polymers derived from commodity monomers while incorporating diverse pendant functionalities. Through careful pendant-group design, steric repulsion during propagation induces either cross-over or helical growth, leading to alternating sequence control or isotactic regularity. Importantly, these monomers retain high reactivity toward nucleophilic transformation by alcohols and/or amines. As a result, post-polymerization modification (PPM) via quantitative alcoholysis or aminolysis allows the efficient library synthesis of alternating copolymers and isotactic polymers bearing a wide variety of pendant groups. Systematic comparison with the corresponding random copolymers or atactic polymers reveals the effects of sequence and tacticity on the resulting physical properties. In addition, our approach has been extended to the library synthesis of degradable polymers that periodically incorporate degradable trigger units.

Keywords: Radical Polymerization, Sequence, Tacticity, Degradation, Library Synthesis

References

1. Shibata, K.; Kametani, Y.; Daito, Y.; Ouchi, M., J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2022, 144, 9959-9970.

2. Pan, Y.; Ouchi, M., Angew. Chem., Int. Ed., 2023, 62, e202308855.

3. Kuroda, K.; Ouchi, M. Angew. Chem., Int. Ed., 2024, 63, e202316875.

4. Pan, Y.; Ouchi, M., Commun. Chem., 2025, 8, 259.

5. Kuroda, K.; Ouchi, M. J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2025, 147, 39632–39639.

Prof Dr Rachel O'Reilly

University of Birmingham, United Kingdom

Rachel O’Reilly is Professor of Chemistry and Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of Birmingham. She previously served as Head of the School of Chemistry and spent a decade at the University of Warwick. She has held major fellowships from the EPSRC, Royal Society and ERC. O’Reilly earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Cambridge and completed her PhD at Imperial College London in 2003. Her research focuses on catalysis, responsive polymers, advanced materials, nanostructure characterization and DNA nanomaterials. She has published nearly 300 papers and received numerous honors, including the 2025 Tilden Medal and election to the Royal Society in 2022.

PRECISION POLYMER NANOPARTICLES

Rachel O'reilly^a,*

^aUniversity of Birmingham

Corresponding Author:r.oreilly@bham.ac.uk

Abstract

Crystallization-driven self-assembly (CDSA) is a powerful tool in the solution polymer self-assembly toolbox and has been utilized to create an impressive range of hierarchical block copolymer structures. Unlike in conventional solution self-assembly, where the range of morphologies obtained are determined by varying the relative block composition of each block, in polymers assembled via CDSA, the formation of micelles with low interfacial curvature is favored. However, despite advances in CDSA there are relatively few examples where the aggregate morphology can be readily controlled to form nanostructures whose size can be controlled in 2 dimensions. Our group has the CDSA of poly(ester) based block copolymers. In this work we present the CDSA of a range of polylactone block copolymers which form a range of self-assembled nanostructures including 2D nanostructures. Using these we have further explored the design rules for the synthesis of such 2D nanomaterials and demonstrated their epitaxial growth, which highlights their potential as biocompatible nanomaterials.

Keywords: CDSA

References

Prof Dr Atsushi Sudo

Kindai University, Japan

Atsushi Sudo received his BEng, MEng, and PhD degrees from the University of Tokyo (1988–1997). After serving as a technical assistant and assistant professor at Tokyo Institute of Technology, he joined Kindai University in 2002, where he is currently Professor in the Faculty of Science and Engineering. His scientific background spans organic chemistry, asymmetric synthesis, polymer synthesis, and polymer reactions. His current research focuses on the development of high-performance polymers derived from naturally occurring compounds, aiming at sustainable and functional polymeric materials.

Prof Dr Ayse Zehra Aroguz

Biruni University, Turkiye

Prof. Dr. Ayşe Zehra AROĞUZ graduated in Chemical Engineering from Istanbul Technical University, earned her MBA from Bosphorus University, and PhD from Istanbul University. She also holds degrees in English Literature, Pedagogy, and Computer Programming. She worked with Prof. Karasz at UMass Amherst (USA) on polymer sciences and was a regular visiting professor. She has led many research projects and published extensively. She served as Deputy Chairperson of the Turkish Chemical Society and was the founder of the Marmara branch of Turkish Chemists Society. She is also a council member at the Federation of Asian Polymer Societies (FAPS) and organized the International FAPS Polymer Congress in Istanbul, in 2023. A recipient of the IUPAC Distinguished Women in Chemistry Award (dedicated to Marie Curie, awarded in San Juan, Puerto Rico) her research includes polymer hydrogels, blends, scaffolds, and patterned polymeric materials.

Prof Dr Bumjoon Kim

Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology, South Korea

Bumjoon Kim is a KAIST Endowed Chair Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at KAIST. He also served as a Department Head from 2021 to 2025. He has published 370 SCI papers with a H-index of 90 and a citation number of > 28000. He is a Fellow of the Korean Academy of Science and Technology (KAST), a member of National Academy of Engineering of Korea (NAEK) and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC).

Prof Dr Dong June Ahn

Korea University, South Korea

Dong June AHN is the faculty of the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Korea University. He was inducted in 2022 as a Fellow of both the Korean Academy of Science and Technology and the National Academy of Engineering of Korea. He has served as the President of the Korean Society for Nanomedicine (2015-16), the Secretary General of the 48th World Polymer Congress-IUPAC Macro 2020+ (2021), and he is currently the President of the Pacific Polymer Federation (2025-27). He leads the Global Engineering Research Program titled Augmented Biopreservation Center (2025-32) supported by NRF, Korea.

MACROMOLECULAR ASSEMBLIES FOR BIOPRESERVATION BY WATER-ICE DYNAMICS

Dong June Ahn^a,* ,Tae-Kyung Won^a ,Woo Hyuk Jung^a ,Sang Yup Lee^a ,Yedam Lee^a

^aKorea University

Corresponding Author:ahn@korea.ac.kr

Abstract

Water freezing is a commonly observed natural phenomenon; however, ice growth and recrystallization can critically damage living organisms. Nature has evolved to produce antifreeze proteins to survive this freezing threat. Their specific amino acid sequence has been widely accepted to play a critical role in binding to ice, which can result in antifreeze activity. On the contrary, ice-binding surfaces can also lead to heterogeneous ice nucleation when the appropriate chemical and dimensional constraints meet. Both phenomena, which require hydrogen-bonding natures with ice surfaces in common, demand distinct design protocols, and thus active mimetic materials have been developed by tailoring them for respective purposes. In this presentation, we will address our recent achievements based on the strategic designs of hydrogen-bonding nature and the dynamics of the water-ice interface of the hydrogen-bonding natures at the water-ice interface by unique nanoscale assemblies and macromolecules with surface and topological engineering.

Keywords: Macromolecules, Water-Ice Dynamics, Biopreservation

References

1. S.Y. Lee, M. Kim, T.K. Won, S.H. Back, Y. Hong, B.-S. Kim*, D.J. Ahn*, “Janus Regulation of Ice Growth by Hyperbranched Polyglycerols Generating Dynamic Hydrogen Bonding”, Nat. Commun., 2022, 13, 6532.
2. M. Lee, S.Y. Lee, M.-H. Kang, T.K. Won, S. Kang, J. Kim, J. Park*, D.J. Ahn*, “Observing Growth and Interfacial Dynamics of Nanocrystalline Ice in Thin Amorphous Ice Films”, Nat. Commun., 2024, 15, 908.
3. T.K. Won, A. Shin, S.Y. Lee, B.-S. Kim*, D.J. Ahn*, “Na⁺-Complexed Dendritic Polyglycerols for Recovery of Frozen Cells and Their Network in Media”, Adv. Mater., 2025, 37, 2416304.
4. W.H. Jung, S.Y. Lee, Y. Lee, D.J. Ahn*, “Freezing-Driven Ionic Charge Imbalance Leads to Pore Formation and Osmotic Injury of Lipid Membranes”, Computers in Biology and Medicine, 2025, 189, 109960.
5. Y. Lee, W.H. Jung, K. Jeon, E.B. Choi, T. Ryu, C. Lee*, D.-N. Kim*, D.J. Ahn*, “Membrane-targeted DNA Frameworks with Biodegradability Recover Cellular Function and Morphology from Frozen Cells", Trends in Biotechnology, 2025, 43, 3196.

Prof Dr Ishak Ahmad

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia

CELLULOSE NANOCRYSTAL (CNC)-BASED HYDROGELS AND AEROGELS: DESIGN, PROPERTIES AND APPLICATIONS

Ishak Ahmad^a,*

^aUniversiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Corresponding Author:gading@ukm.edu.my

Abstract

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) have emerged as highly attractive bio-based nanomaterials for the development of advanced hydrogels and aerogels due to their renewability, high crystallinity, tunable surface chemistry, and excellent reinforcing capability. This abstract highlight the design strategies, structure–property relationships, and multifunctional applications of CNC-based hydrogels and aerogels, with particular emphasis on environmentally friendly fabrication approaches. CNC-based aerogels are commonly engineered through surface modification techniques, such as silane grafting, to impart hydrophobic–oleophilic characteristics, while biopolymers like gelatin are employed as binders to enhance structural integrity. Gamma irradiation plays a crucial role as a green crosslinking and polymerization technique, eliminating the need for toxic chemical crosslinkers and enabling precise control over network formation by adjusting radiation dose. Morphological studies reveal that gamma-irradiated CNC aerogels exhibit well-organized, interconnected porous structures, which contribute to improved mechanical strength, high oil absorption capacity, and excellent reusability. Surface analyses demonstrate a significant reduction in hydroxyl groups and increased water contact angles following silane modification, confirming enhanced hydrophobicity suitable for oil–water separation applications. In parallel, CNC-reinforced hydrogels exhibit superior mechanical performance and stimuli-responsive behavior compared to microcellulose-filled systems. The high crystallinity and nanoscale dimensions of CNCs enhance storage modulus, pore homogeneity, and interfacial interactions within polymer networks such as poly(acrylic acid) and gelatin. These hydrogels display pronounced responsiveness to pH and temperature changes, highlighting their potential in smart materials, biomedical devices, and controlled release systems. Overall, CNC-based hydrogels and aerogels represent a versatile class of sustainable materials whose properties can be tailored through irradiation-assisted crosslinking and surface modification, enabling applications ranging from environmental remediation to responsive soft materials.

Keywords: cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), hydrogels, aerogels, nanocomposite

References

1. Safar, H.; Ahmad, I.; Ramli, S.; Mohamed, F.; Daniel Thangadurai, T.; Thomas, S. 2025. Heliyon. 11, e42615.
2. Rosli, N.A.; Khairudin, F.A.; Kargarzadeh, H.; Othaman, R.; Ahmad, I.. 2022. Inter. J. Bio. Macro. 213-223.
3. Salleh, A.; Mustafa, N.; Teow, Y.H.; Fatimah, M.N.; Khairudin, F.A.; Ahmad I.; Fauzi*, M.B. 2022. Biomedicines. 10, 816.
4. Wan Ishak, W.H.; Rosli, N.A.; Ahmad. I.; Ramli, S.; Mohd Amin, M.C.I. 2021. J. Mater Research Technol. 15, 7145–7157.
5. Rosli, N.A., Wan Ishak, W.H., Ahmad, I. 2021. J. Cleaner Production, 290, 125886. doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2021.125886

Prof Dr Kohzo Ito

Tokyo University, Japan

Kohzo Ito is University Professor at The University of Tokyo and Fellow at National Institute for Materials Science. He received his B. E, M. E. and Ph. D. degrees in applied physics from The University of Tokyo. He was the president of the Society of Polymer Science, Japan, and is running flagship national projects as a program director (SIP) and project manager (Moonshot Program). He has been researching the polymer physics and supramolecular chemistry, and now is focusing on slide-ring materials from polyrotaxane using cyclodextrin, necklace-like supramolecule with topological characteristics.

Prof Dr Peter Cormack

University of Strathclyde, United Kingdom

Peter Cormack is Professor of Polymer Chemistry and Head of Materials & Computational Chemistry at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, Scotland, UK. Peter has built a global reputation as international leader in polymer science, and he is motivated by a desire to pursue useful polymer chemistry research which promises tangible, societal benefits. Peter’s research interests lie predominantly in the areas of synthetic polymer chemistry and materials science, with special emphasis on the design, synthesis and applications of functional organic polymers, including porous organic solids, polymeric synthetic receptors, polymer microspheres, chemical sensors and ion-exchange resins.

BEADED ORGANIC POLYMERS GO WITH THE FLOW

Peter Cormack^a,*

^aUniversity of Strathclyde

Corresponding Author:peter.cormack@strath.ac.uk

Abstract

Porous organic polymers are exploited in a broad range of specialist and everyday applications, including as polymer supports in solid-phase synthesis work and heterogeneous catalysis, as ion-exchange resins for water purification, as tissue engineering scaffolds, and as functional materials in biological assays. Furthermore, they are highly attractive for use in a number of important chemical separation scenarios, including as high-performance sorbents and stationary phases in solid-phase extraction (SPE) and chromatographic separation technologies, respectively, spanning large-scale chemical separations and analytical-scale work (e.g., the monitoring of environmental pollutants and drug molecules).

At the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, we specialize in the design, synthesis and application of porous organic polymers, optimised to solve an array of real-world scientific problems, including challenging analytical chemistry problems (in fields of application such as environmental analysis, bioanalysis, food analysis, forensic toxicology and omics). In this lecture, I will outline how we control the physical format, porosity and chemical functionality of porous polymers tailored for high-performance chemical separation work, and explain how the polymers can be used as advanced sorbents in SPE. Typically, the polymers are synthesized by methods such as precipitation polymerization and suspension polymerization, and porosity is installed into the polymers though the use of porogenic agents and/or hypercrosslinking methodologies. Affinity and selectivity for molecular targets by the polymers is ensured through the incorporation of chemical motifs such as ion-exchange groups or molecular receptors installed through template-directed synthetic strategies such as molecular imprinting. The latter approach delivers antibody binding mimics that we apply to disease diagnosis, prognosis and management. Whilst the preferred mode of operation for the exploitation of our beaded polymers is normally liquid flow through packed beds, our micron-sized beaded products are well-suited for circulation through microfluidics devices.

Keywords: Microspheres, Porosity, Ion-exchange, Molecular imprinting, Solid-phase extraction

References

1. Polymer-Supported Photosensitizers for Oxidative Organic Transformations in Flow and Under Visible Light Irradiation, J.M. Tobin, T.J.D. McCabe, A. Prentice, S. Holzer, G.O. Lloyd, M.J. Paterson, V. Arrighi, P.A.G. Cormack and F. Vilela, ACS Catal. (2017) 7, 4602-4612

2. Magnetic Synthetic Receptors for Selective Clean-Up in Protein Biomarker Quantification, N. McKitterick, F. Braathen, M.A. Świtnicka-Plak, P.A.G. Cormack, L. Reubsaet and T.G. Halvorsen, J. Proteome Res. (2020) 19(8), 3573

3. Microporous Polymer Microspheres with Amphoteric Character for the Solid-Phase Extraction of Acidic and Basic Analytes, J.C. Nadal, K.L. Anderson, S. Dargo, I. Joas, D. Salas, F. Borrull, P.A.G. Cormack, R.M. Marcé and N. Fontanals, J. Chromatogr. A (2020) 1626, 461348

4. Donor-Acceptor Stenhouse Adduct Functionalised Polymer Microspheres, J.P. Wesseler, G.M. Cameron, P.A.G. Cormack and N. Bruns, Polym. Chem. (2023) 14, 1456-1468

5. A Facile Route for the Chemical Functionalisation of Polydivinylbenzenes and the Application of Amphoteric Polydivinylbenzene Microspheres to the Simultaneous Solid-Phase Extraction of Acidic and Basic Drugs from Water Samples, F. Borrull, P.A.G. Cormack, A. Corrigan, C. Craig, N. Fontanals, R.M. Marcé, A. Moral, G. Smith, Polym. Chem. (2025) 16, 751-761

Prof Dr Tatiana Budtova

MINES ParisTech, France

Tatiana is expert in polymer chemical physics, in particular, in polymer solutions, gels and aerogels with the focus on bio-mass based polymers, and also in polymer composites with natural fibers. Tatiana holds “research director” position in the Center for Materials Forming of Mines Paris, France. She is editor-in-chief of Carbohydrate Polymers journal and Chair of Cellulose and Renewable Materials Division of American Chemical Society. She published more than 180 articles, and in 2020 she was awarded a “Silver Medal” by CNRS (France) for the outstanding research on bio-aerogels.

BIO-AEROGELS AS NEXT-GENERATION THERMAL SUPERINSULATORS: PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES

Tatiana Budtova^a,*

^aCenter for Materials Forming (CEMEF), Mines Paris - PSL

Corresponding Author:tatiana.budtova@minesparis.psl.eu

Abstract

Bio-aerogels are materials born at the beginning of the 21st century. They are open-pores low-density (below 0.2 g.cm^-3) nanostructured materials with very high specific surface area (several hundreds of m²g^-1). Today’s interest in bio‐aerogels, in particular, based on polysaccharides, is due to the desire of using sustainable resources instead of fossil‐based ones. Thanks to their unique characteristics, bio‐aerogels may be used in the same domains as the classical aerogels (e.g., silica or synthetic polymers such as polyimide or polyurethane): for thermal insulation, as catalysts and catalytic supports, absorbents and adsorbents and also in life science.

We developed pectin-based aerogels with extremely low thermal conductivity (0.015-0.020 W.m^-1K^-1) (refs.1-3), below that of air in ambient conditions. This is called thermal super-insulation; aerogels are the only family of materials which possesses such intrinsic properties thanks to low density and nanostructured pores (Knudsen effect). The preparation pathways and bio-aerogels’ properties will be presented, and remaining challenges and open questions will be discussed to advance practical applications.

Keywords: aerogels, thermal insulation, porosity, biopolymers

References

1. Rudaz, C.; Courson, R. ; Bonnet, L. ; Calas-Etienne, S. ; Sallee, H. ; Budtova T. Biomacromolecules, 2014, 15, 2188−2195.
2. Groult, S.; Budtova, T. Carbohydrate Polymers. 2018, 196, 73.
3. Effraimopoulou, E. PhD thesis, Mines Paris – PSL, 2025

Prof Dr Xi Zhang

Tsinghua University, China

Dr. Xi Zhang is the Professor of Chemistry at Tsinghua University, and currently, he is the President of Jilin University. He serves as the Director of Polymer Division, Chinese Chemical Society; and Editor-in-Chief of CCS Chemistry. He was elected as the Academician of Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2007. His main scientific interests are in the interdisciplinary areas of supramolecular chemistry and polymer chemistry, leading to molecular engineering of functional supramolecular systems.

COVALENT POLYMERIZATION OF SUPRAMONOMERS:

TOWARDS FABRICATION OF RENEWABLE SUPRAMOLECULAR MATERIALS

Xi Zhang^a,*

^aTsinghua University

Corresponding Author:xi@mail.tsinghua.edu.cn

Abstract

The interplay between polymer science and supramolecular chemistry leads to the formation of various supramolecular polymeric systems, with their functions determined by self-assembling supramolecular structures. In this presentation, I will introduce the concept of supramonomer, which refers to a monomer that is fabricated by noncovalent interactions and is able to undergo covalent polymerization. By the covalent polymerization of supramonomers in solutions or at interface, supramolecular polymeric materials with desired renewability and robust mechanical properties can be fabricated. This line of research enriches the methodology of supramolecular polymerization and opens new avenues for fabricating supramolecular polymeric materials with tailor-made properties.

Keywords: Supramolecular Chemistry, Polymer Science, Supramolecular Polymerization

References

1. P. Sun, B. Qin, J.-F. Xu, X. Zhang, Prog. Polym. Sci., 2022, 124, 101486.
2. B. Qin, S. Zhang, P. Sun, B. Tang, Z. Yin, X. Cao, Q. Chen, J.-F. Xu, X. Zhang, Adv. Mater., 2020, 32, 2000096.
3. W. H. Lai, B. Qin, X. Cao, Q. Chen, J.-F. Xu, X. Zhang, J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2025, 147, 29517.