Polymers and Functional Interfaces
The research in our group is centered on both fundamental and applied aspects of material and surface chemistry. Our work includes studies of intermolecular and surface forces, polymers, surface functionalization, and the characterization of surface structures. We use this fundamental understanding to guide the bottom-up design of material interfaces with built-in functionalities, such as anti-icing and anti-fouling properties, tunable adhesion and lubrication, as well as advanced materials for skin and tissue adhesion in medical applications.
Research
Our research focuses on the design, synthesis, characterization, and testing of functional polymeric materials and material interfaces. We use state-of-the-art experimental techniques to investigate their structural, mechanical, wetting, and viscoelastic properties at both the molecular and macroscopic levels.
A central theme in our work is the close connection between fundamental surface science and real-world applications. This enables us to develop coatings and materials for use in adhesion, anti-icing, anti-fouling, molecular sensing, and tissue engineering.
We also host DTU SkinHub, a platform that brings together research, education, and innovation in the areas of skin adhesion, tissue adhesion, and related biomedical technologies.
Profile
Esben Thormann obtained his PhD in Biophysics from the University of Southern Denmark in 2006 under supervision of Professor Ole G. Mouritsen. During his PhD he also spent seven months at the Australian National University in Canberra where he worked together with Professor Vincent Craig.
After completing his PhD-studies and spending another year as postdoc in Denmark, Esben went to the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm as a Marie Curie postdoctoral fellow working with Professor Per M. Claesson for one year. The following five years Esben stayed in Stockholm, first as a senior researcher and later as Docent in surface and colloidal science.
In 2013, Esben became Associate Professor in physical chemistry at the Technical University of Denmark where his has built a research group focusing on polymers and functional interfaces. In 2018, Esben was appointed as Professor in surface physical chemistry at the same institution.
Contact
Esben Thormann Professor Department of Chemistry Phone: +45 45252439 Mobile: +45 53828118 esth@kemi.dtu.dk
