Missions

Polyurethane foams play a key role in thermal insulation, particularly in cryogenic environments such as liquefied gas tanks (methane, hydrogen, oxygen). To date, their expansion relies on fluorinated blowing agents, which are effective but pose significant environmental concerns due to their high global warming potential and their classification as PFAS, now subject to strict regulations.
In this context, the project aims to develop a new generation of fluorine-free polyurethane foams while maintaining essential performance characteristics: controlled cellular structure, dimensional stability, and thermomechanical properties suitable for extremely low temperatures.
The recruited postdoctoral researcher will contribute to the development of these innovative formulations by studying the relationship between the physicochemical properties of alternative blowing agents and the final foam performance. They will also test the new formulations under conditions that simulate industrial processes (casting, spraying, high-pressure foaming) to ensure their transferability to real-world applications.
This postdoctoral position is part of a collaboration between the Laboratory of Organic Polymer Chemistry (LCPO) at the University of Bordeaux and two major industrial partners: ArianeGroup and Gaztransport & Technigaz (GTT). The project is conducted within the framework of an ANR Industrial Chair (SPACE-MAT), providing a stimulating scientific environment at the interface of academic research and industrial innovation.

Activités

-Develop new polyurethane foam formulations suitable for cryogenic insulation using fluorine-free blowing agents.
-Investigate the influence of the physicochemical properties of blowing agents (boiling point, polarity, etc.) on the foaming process.
-Characterize the resulting foams in terms of cellular structure, thermomechanical properties, dimensional stability, and substrate adhesion.
-Implement formulations under conditions simulating industrial processes (casting, spraying, high-pressure foaming).
-Establish clear correlations between formulation, processing methods, and final foam performance.
-Collaborate with academic and industrial partners within the framework of an ANR Industrial Chair (SPACE-MAT project).

Compétences

-PhD in Chemistry and/or Polymer Physical Chemistry.
-Knowledge and experience in polyurethane foams (strongly preferred).
-Understanding of the thermodynamics of blowing agents (an asset).
-Experience with industrial foaming processes (casting, spraying, high-pressure foaming).
-Proficiency in experimental techniques for polymer and/or cellular material characterization.
-Strong scientific rigor and analytical skills.
-Autonomy and initiative.
-Enthusiasm for experimental and collaborative research, working closely with academic and industrial partners.

Contexte de travail

The majority of the postdoctoral work will take place at the Laboratory of Organic Polymer Chemistry (LCPO) in Bordeaux. LCPO is a joint research unit affiliated with the CNRS, the University of Bordeaux, and Bordeaux INP Aquitaine. With over 30 years of experience in polymer chemistry, the laboratory brings together around 150 staff members, including 50 permanent researchers and faculty, organized into four research teams.
LCPO's research activities focus on two main areas:
-Developing innovative methodologies for precision polymer synthesis, including biomimetic approaches and principles of green chemistry.
-Designing functional polymer materials through macromolecular engineering and self-assembly.
The recruited postdoctoral researcher will join Team 2 – Biopolymers and Bio-based Polymers, led by Prof. Henri Cramail. This team specializes in the valorization of bio-based resources for polymer synthesis, with a focus on sustainable and functional materials.
As part of this collaboration, the postdoctoral researcher will also undertake regular visits to industrial partners in the Bordeaux and Paris regions to support project progress and ensure close integration between academic research and industrial application.

Contraintes et risques

NA