Job
Description
Key Responsibilities Polymer Synthesis: Design, develop, and optimize emulsion polymerization, Polyurithane Dispersion (PUD) processes for the synthesis of water-based polymers for various applications Characterization: Conduct detailed chemical, physical, and mechanical testing of polymer products, including particle size analysis, viscosity measurements, and glass transition temperature (Tg) analysis. Scale-Up: Lead the scale-up of laboratory-scale processes to pilot and production-scale manufacturing while ensuring consistent quality and performance. Process Optimization: Improve process efficiencies, yields, and reproducibility through continuous process improvement strategies. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with product development, marketing, and manufacturing teams to ensure that polymer products meet customer and regulatory requirements. Troubleshooting: Provide technical support for solving production issues related to emulsion polymerization processes and product quality. Documentation: Maintain comprehensive lab notebooks, write technical reports, and prepare presentations to communicate results and findings to internal and external stakeholders. Market Research: Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in polymer science, particularly in emulsion polymerization, and provide input into the development of new product lines. Skills Required In-depth knowledge of emulsion polymerization techniques such as batch, semi-batch, and continuous processes. Strong understanding of polymer structure-property relationships. Experience with analytical techniques such as GPC, DSC, TGA, FTIR, NMR, GCMS, GPC etc. Familiarity with the development of polymer products for coatings, adhesives, paints, or similar industries. Knowledge of regulatory standards and environmental considerations for water-based polymers. Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills. Technical/Functional Proficiency Required Emulsion Polymerization and PUD Techniques: Expertise in batch, semi-batch, and continuous emulsion polymerization processes. In-depth knowledge of free radical polymerization, dispersion polymerization, and miniemulsion polymerization. Knowledge of comonomers to tailor polymer properties, including hydrophobic/hydrophilic balance, Tg, and mechanical properties. Surfactants and Emulsifiers: Proficiency in selecting and using surfactants, emulsifiers, and stabilizers for emulsion polymer systems. Understanding of the impact of surfactants on particle size, stability, and final polymer properties. Polymer Characterization: Ability to use analytical tools for the characterization of polymer products: Particle size and distribution analysis using DLS or laser diffraction. Molecular weight distribution using Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC). Glass transition temperature (Tg) and thermal stability using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). Mechanical properties such as tensile strength and elongation. Surface and interfacial properties using techniques like contact angle measurement. Formulation Chemistry: Experience with the formulation of emulsion polymers, PUD for specific applications such as adhesives, coatings, paints, textiles, or paper. Knowledge of additives (e.g., thickeners, coalescing agents, plasticizers) and their role in improving product performance. Educational Qualifications - Bachelor's/Master’s Degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Engineering, or Chemical Engineering. Experience Level (If applicable) - Minimum 5-10 years of experience in emulsion polymer, PUD synthesis preferably in an industrial setting. Show more Show less
