The Advanced Circular Materials Platform designs and develops materials that enable circular economy solutions by emphasizing recyclability, biodegradability, and sustainable life-cycle performance. We focus on re-engineering conventional materials and creating novel alternatives that reduce dependence on finite resources.

Using advanced polymer science, hybrid composites, and material upcycling strategies, we investigate structure–function relationships that promote extended product lifespans and closed-loop recycling. Our research connects molecular design with industrial applications, ensuring materials are both high-performing and sustainable.

A/Prof. Gresil’s interdisciplinary research explores three key domains: (i) the integration of multifunctionality in composite structures—such as health monitoring, self-healing, reprocessability, recyclability, thermal-load dissipation, and electrical enhancement; (ii) the development of emerging bio-based polymer materials, particularly vitrimers with healing and morphing capabilities activated by thermal stimuli; and (iii) the design of bio-inspired 2D/3D morphing materials using nanotechnology and advanced printing techniques. He leads the Circular Plastic Research Node within the Faculty of Engineering

__Prof. Gil Garnier

_Prof. Warren Batchelor

___Dr. Joel Hooper

• Next-gen polymers – developing recyclable vitrimers and organic glass as sustainable alternatives to olefins, reducing reliance on petrochemical-based plastics and composites.
• Fully circular concepts – designing bioplastics, self-healing systems, and enzyme-enabled polymers that can be continuously recycled or biodegraded.
• Sustainable performance – creating renewable materials with durability and processability comparable to traditional petrochemicals, driving a transition to a circular economy.