Gustaf Bellman

My research is focused on developing recyclable polymeric insulation foams that stem from plastic waste streams and renewable resources. To obtain materials with the desired properties, dynamic covalent bonds are incorporated into the structures to form foamed covalent adaptable networks (CANs). These types of materials will allow e.g. better mechanical strength and thermal stability, while still enabling reprocessability and closed-loop recyclability. The work includes post-functionalization of polymers, chemical recycling of plastics, utilization of biobased building blocks, CAN design and synthesis, as well as exploring green foaming processes and routes for recycling. The principles of green chemistry are applied in all steps to make the materials more sustainable and environmentally friendly, contributing towards the next-generation circular, energy-saving materials.

I am currently a PhD student in the Division of Polymer Technology, part of the Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology at KTH, working under the supervision of Prof. Karin Odelius and Prof. Minna Hakkarainen. I obtained my MSc degree in Chemical Engineering from Lund University in 2024, where I specialised in materials science and polymer technology. I wrote my master’s thesis at KTH with the title “Cellulose derived Diels-Alder covalent adaptable networks: a route towards recyclable thermosets”.