Transposition of cyclohexane oxidation catalysts for the conversion of polyethylene into diacids

IFP Énergies nouvelles (IFPEN) offers a funding for a PhD student on the transposition of oxidation catalysts for the transformation of polyethylene to diacids. The student will be located in the laboratory of inorganic chemistry of ICMMO (Paris-Saclay University).One of the key issues identified in the recycling of plastic is the development of eco-efficient processes in order to contribute to the circular economy. The main objective of the project is to develop a transformation pathway for polyethylene allowing the formation of high added value products. Part of the PhD work will focus on benchmark and innovative (organo)metallic complexes syntheses and their implementation in oxidation reaction of model compounds (cyclohexane or long chain alkanes) employing high pressure reactors. The different characterization technique at ICMMO will allow the validation of the structure of the precursors and their reactivity (HPLC, GC, mass, NMR). A mechanistic study of the oxidation reaction will be undertaken thanks to the following techniques: Stopped-Flow, UV, IR, Masse, RPE and electrochemistry. The selected catalytic systems will be transposed on the oxidation of polyethylene.
This ambitious project will contribute to the development of sustainable homogeneous catalysts allowing the recycling of polyethylene to high added value products. Through this project the candidate will be trained in a variety of analytical techniques and catalysis, which should provide him/her a suitable training to look for a position in academia or industry.

Keywords: Plastic recycling, oxidation, polyolefins, cyclohexane, polyethylene

• Academic supervisor    Prof. Ally AUKAULOO, Institut de Chimie Moléculaire et des Matériaux d’Orsay, ORCID 0000-0002-5480-1642
• Doctoral School    ED571 2MIB, Université Paris Saclay
• IFPEN supervisors    Dr. Typhene MICHEL & Dr. Kim LARMIER, ORCID 0000-0002-5199-1516
• PhD location    Institut de Chimie Moléculaire et des Matériaux d’Orsay, Orsay, France
• Duration and start date    3 years, starting in the fourth quarter 2024 (Novembre 4)
• Employer    IFPEN
• Academic requirements    University Master degree in Inorganic Chemistry or Organic Chemistry   
• Language requirements    English level B2 (CEFR)

To apply, please send your cover letter and CV to the IFPEN supervisor indicated below.