The current research activities at the IP-BAS are in line with the National strategy for development of scientific research in the Republic of Bulgaria 2017 – 2030 as well as with the priority areas defined in the EU Framework Program for Research and Innovation "Horizon 2020". According to the accepted research plan of the IP-BAS, the research is focused into three main topics:
New polymers and innovative polymeric (nano)materials and technologies
1. Polymers of different macromolecular architecture, topology, and functionality by controlled polymerization processes and/or modification reactions;
2. Colloid aqueous systems based on amphiphilic copolymers - formation and stabilization of polymeric aggregates of different structure;
3. Polymer-organic and polymer-inorganic hybrid nanomaterials (nanoparticles, nanofibers);
4. Advanced methods and apparatus development for fabricating nanostructured fibrous materials (electrospinning, electrospraying).
Polymeric materials for medicine, pharmacy and biotechnology
1. Smart systems based on temperature- and pH sensitive polymers for sustained/controlled drug delivery;
2. Electroactive composite materials for actuators, sensors and switches;
3. Nanocarriers (nanoparticles, nanocapsules and nanofibers) of bioactive (macro)molecules;
4. Hydrogeles and cryogels for immobilization of drugs, enzymes and cells;
5. Phosphorus-containing biologically active materials - poly(aminophosphonate) and supramolecular polyphosphoesters;
6. New polymeric materials with improved biocompatibility or targeted biological activity.
Polymeric materials for alternative energy sources and polymers from renewable and unconventional resources
1. Polymeric membranes for power converters
2. Active polymer layers for organic solar elements
3. "Green" synthesis of biodegradable polymers
4. Biodegradable polymer mixtures and nanocomposites
5. Recycling and recovery of polymer waste