We are always looking for highly-motivated individuals to join the LCPO! Interested undergraduate and graduate students can apply to the following offers. They are also strongly encouraged to contact LCPO's researchers directly.
PhD Thesis in Collaboration with Industry: Identification of Micro- and Nano-Plastics in Salts
Contacts : Étienne Grau , Olivier Sandre , Véronique Coma , Christophe Schatz
Project summary
Project Background:
Plastics are ubiquitous in our daily lives, with global production reaching 460 million tons per year in 2019. This massive use leads to widespread environmental contamination by micro- and nano-plastics, posing major challenges for industries—particularly the agri-food sector—in terms of quality, safety, and human health. In light of these issues, it is crucial to precisely identify these contaminants and their sources in order to optimize industrial processes and reduce contamination.
Objectives and Methodology:
This PhD project, conducted in partnership with K+S France, a key player in the sector, aims to identify and quantify plastic organic impurities at both the nano (10 nm to 1 μm) and micro (>2 μm) scales in this type of salt. To achieve this, advanced analytical techniques will be employed, including total organic carbon (TOC) measurement, light scattering (static – SLS and dynamic – DLS), X-ray scattering, tensiometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), as well as IR and Raman micro-spectroscopy. These methods will enable the development of a robust protocol to detect and quantify such contaminants at extremely low concentrations (ppb).
The project is carried out through a close collaboration between three laboratories of the University of Bordeaux (LCPO, CRPP, and ISM) and will lead to a better understanding of contamination levels. It will also clearly identify potential sources of micro- and nano-plastics while proposing concrete solutions to reduce them. In parallel, the PhD candidate will work closely with the industrial partner to adapt these analytical methods to industrial processes, identify critical contamination points, and actively contribute to the implementation of effective remediation strategies.
Applicant profile:
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Master’s student (final year) or final-year engineering student
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Specialization in polymer and/or colloid physical chemistry and/or formulation
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Strong interest in advanced physico-chemical characterization of dispersed materials
Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV and a cover letter to the following contacts:
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