Work group Prof. Dr. Alireza Kharazipour

The international declaration of formaldehyde as potential cause of cancer asks for development of formaldehyde-free binder systems for the wood based panel industry to replace the current urea formaldehyde binders (UF).

In this context, polyurethanes (PUR) receive high interest since they are free of formaldehyde emissions. PURs are already established in other industries and available worldwide on the market.
The aim of this PHD-study is to adjust PUR properties to the needs for the use in wood composite industry and to develop new types of elastic low-emission, formaldehyde-free wood composites.

Aspects of ecological and economic interests will also be considered.
A very good degree of a Diploma- or Master-study in Forest and Wood Sciences or a comparable field is required. A sound knowledge in the areas of chemistry process engineering and wood composites is of advantage.