Eco-friendly Light-Initiated Polymerization for SustainablE Materials – ECLIPSE

ECLIPSE is an industrial chair project of the Institut des Sciences des Matériaux de Mulhouse (IS2M) and Arkema. Arkema aims for leadership in high-performance specialty materials through innovation and sustainability.
The future of photochemistry research will focus on improving chemical systems for low-energy light sources, enabling polymerization of thin, non-transparent composites, and developing environmentally friendly resins and photoinitiators in response to stricter regulations. Recycling polymers and decarbonization through bio-based alternatives will also be key priorities. Additionally, artificial intelligence is emerging as a powerful tool in molecular design. Competing technologies like EB curing require further comparison with UV photopolymerization, while new applications, such as photochemical polyacrylate synthesis, would expand the role of photopolymers in industry. Photopolymerization offers fast, energy-efficient, and sustainable alternatives for coatings, adhesives, 3D printing, and biomedical devices.

The ECLIPSE research chair aims to: 1. Develop innovative materials – AI-designed photoinitiators, bio-based monomers, and biodegradable polymers. 2. Enhance sustainability – Reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. 3. Drive industry applications – Create advanced materials for adhesives, coatings, composites, and biomedical devices.

The success criteria include 4+ high-impact publications, 15 patents, and two prototype products for industrial testing as well as the integration of new photochemical processes into Arkema’s pilot lines.

The project research is structured into three work packages (WPs): 1. New building blocks (WP1): Developing advanced photoinitiators, monomers, and oligomers. 2. New photocuring process design (WP2): Optimizing light sources and comparing UV vs. EB curing. Photopolymerization in water based medium. 3. New applications (WP3): Expanding photopolymerization into high-tech industries.

The program spans 48 months and is structured around 7 doctoral research projects, ensuring scientific breakthroughs while aligning with Arkema’s strategic goals. ECLIPSE will also support knowledge dissemination through teaching, CNRS training, and student opportunities in sustainable chemistry. The project aligns with France’s green technology goals under the Paris Agreement and strengthens academic-industry partnerships. Internationally, it enhances Arkema’s position as a global innovator, driving long-term advancements in photopolymerization and specialty materials.