POLYMERS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Materials for a more sustainable chemistry and industry.

At POLYMAT, we develop chemical strategies and polymeric materials aimed at reducing environmental impact and advancing towards more sustainable production models.
From green catalysis to chemical recycling and biopolymers, our research contributes to the transition to a circular economy.


The Polymers and Sustainability area investigates the design of alternative catalysts, depolymerization processes, and new bio-based materials that can replace polluting technologies and valorize waste. Our work integrates sustainable chemistry, polymer engineering, and circular economy principles to develop efficient solutions for recycling, membrane separation, and biodegradable materials for agri-food systems.

Research lines

Sustainable Catalysis

Coordinator: Fernando Vidal

Polymer recycling

Coordinator: Haritz Sardon

Membranes for water and air

Biopolymers for agri-food systems

Coordinator: Danila Merino

Sustainable Packaging Materials

Coordinator: Ainara Sangroniz

Latest doctoral theses


Aqueous Emulsion Strategies for Advanced Vat Photopolymerization

Jon Ayestaran

Supervisión: Prof. Robert Aguirresarobe and Prof. Timothy Edward Long

02/10/2026
11:00 am
Faculty of Chemistry Auditorium

Advancing the Recycling of Heteropolymers: Strategies Toward More Efficient and Sustainable Processes

Emelin Yhoany Luna Barrios

Supervisión: Prof. Dr. Haritz Sardon and Prof. Dr. Steven de Meester

20/02/2026
9:00 am

News related to the area


POLYMAT and EHU develop a new approach to polymer foams

The international patent application describes the use of amino acid-derived compounds to produce polymer foams, with potential applications in insulation, packaging and lightweight materials.

14/10/2026

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Peter Olsén visits POLYMAT to discuss chemical recycling and biomass

The Linköping University researcher visited POLYMAT and presented approaches to chemical recycling, biobased polymers and the functionalisation of cellulose during a group seminar held on 16 October.

17/10/2026

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Eleven POLYMAT researchers listed among the world’s top 2% scientist in 2026

Eleven members of the POLYMAT research community feature in the 2026 Stanford–Elsevier list: seven in both career-long and single-year impact, and four in single-year impact.

10/10/2026

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