Development, Optimisation and Environmental Validation of Seaweed-Based Biofoams as Sustainable Alternatives to Polystyrene Flotation Materials

About the project

About the Project Project Key Words: biopolymers; marine foams; circular economy Post summary: Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is widely used in marine flotation applications due to its low cost and favourable buoyancy properties; however, its persistence in the environment and contribution to marine plastic pollution pose significant sustainability challenges. This project aims to develop scalable seaweed-based biofoams as environmentally sustainable alternatives to conventional polystyrene flotation materials for marine use. This research will focus on the formulation and optimisation of novel biofoams derived from seaweed biomass, with emphasis on achieving the mechanical performance, durability and buoyancy required for marine use. Comprehensive material characterisation will be undertaken to benchmark the developed materials against existing commercial flotation foams. The environmental performance of the biofoams will be assessed through degradation studies under marine conditions, evaluation of ecotoxicity, and investigation of potential impacts on marine biodiversity. The most promising formulations will be scaled up and manufactured as semi-pilot-scale flotation blocks for deployment and validation in operational marina environments in collaboration with Inland and Coastal. In parallel, a life cycle cost assessment will be conducted to evaluate the economic feasibility of the technology and compare its performance with conventional polystyrene systems across production, deployment, maintenance and end-of-life stages. The project will generate new knowledge in sustainable biomaterials, provide a pathway towards environmentally responsible flotation technologies, and support the transition of marine infrastructure towards circular and low-impact materials. The outcomes are expected to contribute to reducing plastic pollution while creating commercially viable alternatives for the marine sector. Person specification Qualifications Essential Honours Degree (minimum 2:1) in Material sciences, Material engineering, Biology, Biochemistry or related disciplines Fundamental knowledge of biochemistry Basic understanding of experimental design and scientific research methods Experience in laboratory-based research during undergraduate projects or internships An interest in sustainability, biomaterials or circular bioeconomy research Desirable MSc in areas related to Sustainability, Material sciences, Material engineering, Biology or Biochemistry Knowledge & Experience Essential Fundamental knowledge of biochemistry Basic understanding of experimental design and scientific research methods Experience in laboratory-based research during undergraduate projects or internships An interest in sustainability, biomaterials or circular bioeconomy research Desirable Knowledge of the formulation and characterisation of biomaterials, and an understanding of their environmental impact Experience in material testing Knowledge of microbial ecology, or environmental microbiology Basic skills in statistical analysis or programming (e.g., R or Python) Experience in multidisciplinary science and working with multidisciplinary teams Skills &Competencies Essential Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Ability to plan and conduct laboratory experiments Excellent organisation and time management Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team Strong written and verbal communication skills Motivation to undertake interdisciplinary research combining biochemistry, materials science, and environmental science Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate on application that they meet SETU’s English language requirements and provide all necessary documentation. See Page 7 of the Code of Practice In order to be shortlisted for interview, you must meet the SETU English speaking requirements so please provide evidence in your application. Desirable Skills in scientific writing and literature review Experience presenting research findings (e.g., poster or oral presentations) Interest in science communication and stakeholder engagement Ability to work across interdisciplinary research environments involving academia and industry Further information For any informal queries, please contact Dr Adriana Neves on email adriana.cunhaneves@setu.ie . Application procedure Complete the online Application Form from the SETU website quoting the advert reference number from above . Please ensure that you upload all supporting documents as part of your submission. Please note that applications must be submitted by this route. For queries relating to the application and admission process please contact the Postgraduate Admissions Office via email researchadmissions@setu.ie or telephone +353 (0)51 302883. University Website: https://www.setu.ie The University will short-list and interview those applicants who provide the most suitable information in terms of experience, qualifications and other requirements relevant to the scholarship. SOUTH EAST TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY (SETU) IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER

Research areas