CRC - Solving plastic waste

CRC - Solving plastic waste

Two PhD Scholarships are available for research to be conducted at RMIT University and within the Solving Plastic Waste Cooperative Research Centre (SPW CRC).

Developing a compostable barrier film for food packaging: The aim of the project is to develop novel cost-effective compostable flexible barrier materials technology and optimise the process to produce cost-effective, high-performance compostable barrier films.

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$42,000, and the duration is 3 years with the possibility of a 6-month extension

Yes

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The scholarship is open to Australian citizens and permanent residents only. A Bachelor's degree with Honours (H1 or H2A) or a Master's degree with a substantial research component in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.

  • Demonstrated knowledge of polymer science and materials structure–property relationships.
  • Strong experimental, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to conduct independent research. 
  • Familiarity with polymer processing and film fabrication techniques, such as melt blending, extrusion etc. and materials characterisation, including mechanical, and spectroscopic or microscopic techniques.
  • Excellent written and verbal English communication skills, suitable for scholarly publication.
  • High motivation to undertake a full time PhD, produce high quality journal publications, and engage in collaborative research.
  • Strong teamwork skills and contribution to multidisciplinary collaboration.

2027-03-31

Please check the minimum requirements for admission to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at How to apply. 

Two PhD Research scholarships are now available at RMIT University for the Solving Plastic Waste CRC's Compostable barrier film, centred on developing single use compostable certified barrier packaging alternatives as a substitute to flexible plastic packaging.

 

Project 1: Design of Compostable Biohybrid Barrier Films for Sustainable Food Packaging: Engineering Compostable Biohybrid Barrier Films

This project focuses on the formulation of high-performance compostable biohybrid films for food packaging applications. The research will develop novel material systems by integrating biodegradable polymer matrices with bio-based functional additives to enhance oxygen and moisture barrier properties.

Emphasis will be placed on tailoring material composition and interfacial interactions to control morphology, phase behaviour, barrier properties, and compostability. Advanced characterization will be used to link formulation strategies with barrier, mechanical, thermal, and compostability performance.

The project aims to deliver scalable, cost-effective, and fully flexible compostable packaging materials, contributing to reduced plastic waste and supporting the transition to a circular bioeconomy.

Project 2: Scalable Processing for Compostable Biohybrid Packaging or Engineering Processing Routes for Compostable Biohybrid Films

This PhD project focuses on optimising the manufacturing of compostable biohybrid films for food packaging using existing polymer processing technologies. It aims to establish clear processing–property relationships by studying the effects of formulation and processing methods such as reactive extrusion, melt compounding, and film extrusion/blowing on material structure and performance. The research will target improved processability, film uniformity, mechanical strength, and barrier properties while maintaining compostability. Outcomes will include practical processing guidelines to enable scalable, cost-effective production and facilitate industrial adoption of next-generation sustainable packaging materials.

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