Professor Darren Martin
Professor

Darren Martin

Email: 
Phone: 
+61 7 344 31305

Background

Professor Darren Martin FTSE

A Translational Materials Scientist and Intensive Connector, Darren's work sits at the nexus of three key themes of strong fundamental materials science, safe biomaterials and nanomaterials and scalable advanced manufacturing

Darren has always had a strong passion for translation, as evidenced by the following four major research translation outputs, which share the capacity of advanced materials to enable impacts in health, sustainability, and social empowerment:

1996-2012 - Aortech Biomaterials Ltd: We developed a more biostable pacemaker lead insulation which is now implanted in over 80 million people worldwide (Abbott Medical).

2001-2020 - TenasiTech Pty Ltd: In 2020 our scratch resistant and break-proof acrylic glass technology was sold to RTP, a multinational plastics compounder who now sell into several large markets (appliances, personal care, construction, cell phone cases, automotive parts, etc).

2011-2022 - Spinifex Nanocellulose Platform Technology: In 2021, this technology was licensed to Brisbane startup Trioda Medical Pty Ltd for the development of injectable medical gels.

2015-Present - Sorghum-derived Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC): My team have demonstrated that sorghum grasses can be pulped and refined into MFC in a far more sustainable manner than wood biomass.

International Collaborators and Industry Partners

Professor Martin’s current international collaborators include Stony Brook University (USA), DTU (Denmark) and IIT-Delhi (India). He also has several materials co-development projects and collaborations with companies such as Advanta Seeds, GSA Innovation, Opal Paper, Cardia Bioplastics, GMG, GrapheneX, Duromer, OPS, Dulux, Australian Wood Fibre and others.

Prizes, Honours and Awards

Excellence & Commercialisation

• 2020 - UTS Chancellor’s Award (awarded to the top Alumni from the whole of UTS each year)

• 2020 - UTS Alumni Award for Excellence - Faculty of Science • 2016 & 2019 - 2 UQ Partners in Research Excellence Awards (PIREAs) (Spinifex project Bulugudu partnership)

• 2015 - State finalist in the 2015 Telstra Business Awards (TenasiTech Pty Ltd)

• 2010 - UQ Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology Commercialisation Award

• 2010 - Engineers Australia Nanoengineering Panel

• 2007 - iLab Prize at the QLD Enterprise Awards (lead to TenasiTech pre-seed investment from UniSeed)

Service & Leadership

• 2021 - ATSE Reconciliation Action Plan reference group and Industry and Innovation Forum

• 2021 - ATSE President Nominations and Interview Committee to deliberate on the current ATSE President

• 2019 - UQ Teams Leadership Award (Spinifex project Bulugudu partnership)

• 2019 - Business Higher Education Round Table Award (Community Engagement Bulugudu partnership)

• 1993 - Member of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute RACI and the RACI QLD Polymer Group

Availability

Professor Darren Martin is:
Available for supervision
Media expert

Fields of research

Macromolecular and materials chemistry Materials engineering

Qualifications

  • Bachelor (Honours) of Applied Science, University of Technology Sydney
  • Doctor of Philosophy, University of Technology Sydney

Research interests

  • Efficient biomass conversion into advanced materials using green chemistry

    Combine green solvents and high throughput processes like twin screw extrusion and high energy ball milling to upcycle crop residues and organic waste

  • Polymer nanocomposites

    Layered silicate, carbon nanomaterial or nanocellulose reinforced nanocomposites Enhancement of renewable materials using the nanocomposite approach

  • Biological interactions with nanomaterials

    Nanofiller toxicity, safety and occupational hygiene Biomedical nanocomposites biocompatibility and durability

Research impacts

Key Impact Outputs. My research has led to invention of seven licensed and granted patent families in the polymer nanocomposites and micro/nanocellulose fields for which I received the 2007 iLab Prize in the national Enterprize Competition and the 2010 UQ EAIT Commercialisation award and the 2020 UTS Chancellor’s Award.

Outcomes from my Work

Aortech Biomaterials Ltd: I contributed significantly to the discovery, business plan, pitching and early-stage commercialisation of biostable polyurethanes of this spinoff from the CRC for Cardiac Technology. 19 papers published, 4 PhD students completed.

TenasiTech Pty Ltd: Inventor. Employed as CSO 2013- 2016. Employed 9 technical staff, $6.5M Venture Capital (VC) investment, $3.2M research grants, $1.3M infrastructure support, 3 patents (P1-P3) all licensed to TenasiTech Pty Ltd, 4 book chapters, 32 journal papers, 14 PhD students completed, critical contributions to federal policy on nanosafety and occupational hygiene, significant curriculum content and lectures in Biomaterials and Nanomaterials undergraduate courses.

Spinifex Nanocellulose Platform Technology: In 2021, this technology was licensed to Brisbane startup Trioda Medical Pty Ltd for the development of injectable medical gels. I was inventor and research leader together with Bulugudu Ltd (formerly Dugalunji Aboriginal Corporation (DAC)). This work has been widely recognised, as the project respects Aboriginal traditional owners’ knowledge about Spinifex and ensures ongoing equity and involvement. $2.6M VC investment by UniSeed/UniSuper Nov 2022, $6.5M research grants, $1.5M infrastructure support, 4 patents (P4-P7). All licensed to Bulugudu and Trioda Medical Pty Ltd), 2 book chapters and 24 journal papers, 14 PhD completions, 3% of commercialisation revenue will go to an Indigenous Education Fund, prioritising remote Indigenous education in STEM and nanotechnology.

Sorghum-derived Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC): My team have demonstrated that sorghum can be pulped and refined into MFC in a far more sustainable manner than wood biomass (IP protection ongoing). We developed a new method to refine sorghum using a very scalable, high throughput twin-screw extrusion process. We have also demonstrated that the different primary sorghum plant sections (e.g. leaf, sheath and stem) are associated with different composition and structure, and can be tailored for different applications (e.g. advanced carbons, bio-composites, recycled paper, bio-gels etc). To date, $5.6M related research grants and commercial subcontracts, 7 journal papers, 2 PhD students completed.

"Waterless Fibrillation" of Biomass and Industrial Cellulose Waste (WF): My team have invented two different green solvolysis platforms that avoid strong acids, bases and the bulk associated with using of large amounts of water. We are currently expolring the utility of these processes for products across Biocomposites, AgTech, CO2 Electrochemical Conversion and pharmaceutical applications.

Search Professor Darren Martin’s works on UQ eSpace

281 works between 1996 and 2025
All (281) Journal Article (169) Book Chapter (11) Conference Publication (97) Other Outputs (4)

141 - 160 of 281 works

2014

Conference Publication

Unusually high aspect ratio, easily deconstructed cellulose nanofibers from Australian spinifex (Triodia pungens)

Amiralian, Nasim, Annamalai, Pratheep Kumar, Memmott, Paul and Martin, Darren J. (2014). Unusually high aspect ratio, easily deconstructed cellulose nanofibers from Australian spinifex (Triodia pungens). TAPPI Nano 2014: TAPPI 9th Annual International Conference on Nanotechnology for Renewable Materials, Vancover, BC, Canada, 23-26 June 2014.

Unusually high aspect ratio, easily deconstructed cellulose nanofibers from Australian spinifex (Triodia pungens)

2014

Journal Article

Effect of supercritical carbon dioxide on the loading and release of model drugs from polyurethane films: comparison with solvent casting

Zhang, Jing, Martin, Darren J., Taran, Elena, Thurecht, Kristofer J. and Minchin, Rodney F. (2014). Effect of supercritical carbon dioxide on the loading and release of model drugs from polyurethane films: comparison with solvent casting. Macromolecular Chemistry and Physics, 215 (1), 54-64. doi: 10.1002/macp.201300492

Effect of supercritical carbon dioxide on the loading and release of model drugs from polyurethane films: comparison with solvent casting

2014

Other Outputs

Nanocomposite Elastomers

Martin, Darren James and Amiralian, Nasim (2014). Nanocomposite Elastomers. 2014904956.

Nanocomposite Elastomers

2014

Conference Publication

Alternative approaches and feedstocks for nanocellulose

Annamalai, Pratheep Kumar, Amiralian, Nasim and Martin, Darren J. (2014). Alternative approaches and feedstocks for nanocellulose. 1st Australian workshop on cellulose nanofibers, Melbourne VIC, Australia, 17 July 2014.

Alternative approaches and feedstocks for nanocellulose

2014

Conference Publication

Effect of processing route on the morphology of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites incorporating organofluoromica

Osman, Azlin Fazlina, Jack, Kevin, Edwards, Grant and Martin, Darren (2014). Effect of processing route on the morphology of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites incorporating organofluoromica. 2013 International Conference on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, NANO-SciTech 2013, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, 1-4 March 2013. Zurich, Switzerland: Trans Tech. doi: 10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.832.27

Effect of processing route on the morphology of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites incorporating organofluoromica

2014

Journal Article

Optimisation of resin extraction from an Australian arid grass 'Triodia pungens' and its preliminary evaluation as an anti-termite timber coating

Amiralian, Nasim, Annamalai, Pratheep K., Fitzgerald, Chris, Memmott, Paul and Martin, Darren J. (2014). Optimisation of resin extraction from an Australian arid grass 'Triodia pungens' and its preliminary evaluation as an anti-termite timber coating. Industrial Crops and Products, 59, 241-247. doi: 10.1016/j.indcrop.2014.04.045

Optimisation of resin extraction from an Australian arid grass 'Triodia pungens' and its preliminary evaluation as an anti-termite timber coating

2014

Conference Publication

Isolation of cellulose nanocrystal with improved thermal stability from commercial crystalline cellulose

Mohd Amin, Khairatun Najwa, Annamalai, Pratheep Kumar and Martin, Darren J. (2014). Isolation of cellulose nanocrystal with improved thermal stability from commercial crystalline cellulose. NanoBio Australia 2014: 5th International NanoBio Conference & 3rd International Conference on BioNano Innovation (2014 ICBNI), Brisbane, 6-10 July 2014.

Isolation of cellulose nanocrystal with improved thermal stability from commercial crystalline cellulose

2014

Conference Publication

Processing of polyurethane-cellulose nanocomposites via reactive extrusion

Mohd Amin, Khairatun Najwa, Annamalai, Pratheep Kumar and Martin, Darren J. (2014). Processing of polyurethane-cellulose nanocomposites via reactive extrusion. 10th SPSJ International Polymer Conference (IPC2014), Tsukuba, Japan, 2-5 December 2014.

Processing of polyurethane-cellulose nanocomposites via reactive extrusion

2014

Journal Article

Chemical modification of multiwalled carbon nanotube with a bifunctional caged ligand for radioactive labelling

Ormsby, Ross W., McNally, Tony, Mitchell, Christina A., Musumeci, Anthony, Schiller, Tara, Halley, Peter, Gahan, Lawrence, Martin, Darren, Smith, Suzanne V. and Dunne, Nicholas J. (2014). Chemical modification of multiwalled carbon nanotube with a bifunctional caged ligand for radioactive labelling. Acta Materialia, 64, 54-61. doi: 10.1016/j.actamat.2013.10.047

Chemical modification of multiwalled carbon nanotube with a bifunctional caged ligand for radioactive labelling

2014

Conference Publication

Effects of processing method and nanofiller size on mechanical properties of biomedical thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites

Osman, Azilin Fazlina, Edwards, Grant and Martin, Darren (2014). Effects of processing method and nanofiller size on mechanical properties of biomedical thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites. 4th International Conference on Key Engineering Materials (ICKEM 2014), Bali, Indonesia, 22-23 March 2014. Stafa-Zurich, Switzerland: Trans Tech Publications. doi: 10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.911.115

Effects of processing method and nanofiller size on mechanical properties of biomedical thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites

2014

Conference Publication

Worldwide Research and Report on 2014 TAPPI International Conference on Nanotechnology for Renewable Materials

Nasim Amiralian, Pratheep Kumar Annamalai and Martin, Darren J. (2014). Worldwide Research and Report on 2014 TAPPI International Conference on Nanotechnology for Renewable Materials. 1st Australian workshop on cellulose nanofibers, Melbourne, 17 July 2014.

Worldwide Research and Report on 2014 TAPPI International Conference on Nanotechnology for Renewable Materials

2014

Journal Article

Interaction of human arylamine n-acetyltransferase 1 with different nanomaterials

Deng, Zhou J., Butcher, Neville J., Mortimer, Gysell M., Jia, Zhongfan, Monteiro, Michael J., Martin, Darren J. and Minchin, Rodney F. (2014). Interaction of human arylamine n-acetyltransferase 1 with different nanomaterials. Drug Metabolism and Disposition, 42 (3), 377-383. doi: 10.1124/dmd.113.055988

Interaction of human arylamine n-acetyltransferase 1 with different nanomaterials

2014

Conference Publication

Synthesis and characterisation of polyurethane foam from palm-based polyol

Septevani, Athanasia Amanda, Annamalai, Pratheep Kumar and Martin, Darren J. (2014). Synthesis and characterisation of polyurethane foam from palm-based polyol. NanoBio Australia 2014: 5th International NanoBio Conference & 3rd International Conference on BioNano Innovation, Brisbane, 6-10 July 2014.

Synthesis and characterisation of polyurethane foam from palm-based polyol

2014

Conference Publication

Influence of palm based polyol on insulation properties of polyurethane foams

Septevani, Athanasia Amanda, Annamalai, Pratheep Kumar, Evans, David, Chaleat, Celine and Martin, Darren J. (2014). Influence of palm based polyol on insulation properties of polyurethane foams. RACI National Congress 2014, Adelaide, 7-12 December 2014.

Influence of palm based polyol on insulation properties of polyurethane foams

2013

Journal Article

Preparation and characterization of spinifex resin based bio-polyurethane/thermoplastic polyurethane blends

Mondal, Subrata, Memmott, Paul and Martin, Darren (2013). Preparation and characterization of spinifex resin based bio-polyurethane/thermoplastic polyurethane blends. Polymer-Plastics Technology and Engineering, 52 (15), 1535-1541. doi: 10.1080/03602559.2013.820757

Preparation and characterization of spinifex resin based bio-polyurethane/thermoplastic polyurethane blends

2013

Journal Article

Blends of biorenewable polyamide-11 and polyamide-6,10

Ruehle, David A., Perbix, Clay, Castaneda, Monica, Dorgan, John R., Mittal, Vikas, Halley, Peter and Martin, Darren (2013). Blends of biorenewable polyamide-11 and polyamide-6,10. Polymer, 54 (26), 6961-6970. doi: 10.1016/j.polymer.2013.10.013

Blends of biorenewable polyamide-11 and polyamide-6,10

2013

Journal Article

Argon plasma treatment-induced grafting of acrylic acid onto expanded poly(tetrafluoroethylene) membranes

Mohd Hidzir, Norsyahidah, Hill, David J. T., Taran, Elena, Martin, Darren and Grondahl, Lisbeth (2013). Argon plasma treatment-induced grafting of acrylic acid onto expanded poly(tetrafluoroethylene) membranes. Polymer, 54 (24), 6536-6546. doi: 10.1016/j.polymer.2013.10.003

Argon plasma treatment-induced grafting of acrylic acid onto expanded poly(tetrafluoroethylene) membranes

2013

Journal Article

Organization of mixed dimethyldioctadecylammonium and choline modifiers on the surface of synthetic hectorite

Andriani, Yosephine, Jack, Kevin S., Gilbert, Elliot P., Edwards, Grant A., Schiller, Tara L., Strounina, Ekaterina, Osman, Azlin F. and Martin, Darren J. (2013). Organization of mixed dimethyldioctadecylammonium and choline modifiers on the surface of synthetic hectorite. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, 409, 72-79. doi: 10.1016/j.jcis.2013.07.055

Organization of mixed dimethyldioctadecylammonium and choline modifiers on the surface of synthetic hectorite

2013

Journal Article

The in vivo and in vitro corrosion of high-purity magnesium and magnesium alloys WZ21 and AZ91

Abidin, Nor Ishida Zainal, Rolfe, Barbara, Owen, Helen, Malisano, Julian, Martin, Darren, Hofstetter, Joelle, Uggowitzer, Peter J. and Atrens, Andrej (2013). The in vivo and in vitro corrosion of high-purity magnesium and magnesium alloys WZ21 and AZ91. Corrosion Science, 75, 354-366. doi: 10.1016/j.corsci.2013.06.019

The in vivo and in vitro corrosion of high-purity magnesium and magnesium alloys WZ21 and AZ91

2013

Journal Article

In vitro biostability of poly(dimethyl siloxane/hexamethylene oxide)-based polyurethane/layered silicate nanocomposites

Andriani, Yosephine, Morrow, Isabel C., Taran, Elena, Edwards, Grant A., Schiller, Tara L., Osman, Azlin F. and Martin, Darren J. (2013). In vitro biostability of poly(dimethyl siloxane/hexamethylene oxide)-based polyurethane/layered silicate nanocomposites. Acta Biomaterialia, 9 (9), 8308-8317. doi: 10.1016/j.actbio.2013.05.021

In vitro biostability of poly(dimethyl siloxane/hexamethylene oxide)-based polyurethane/layered silicate nanocomposites

Current funding

  • 2024 - 2027
    Development and testing of a sprayable biodegradable mulch (SBM) for Australian broadacre crop production
    CSIRO
    Open grant
  • 2023 - 2030
    ARC Centre of Excellence for Green Electrochemical Transformation of Carbon Dioxide
    ARC Centres of Excellence
    Open grant
  • 2022 - 2027
    ARC Training Centre in Bioplastics and Biocomposites
    ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centres
    Open grant

Past funding

  • 2024 - 2025
    Textile Waste into Biogel: A Sustainable Alternative to Synthetic Superabsorbent Polymers
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2022
    Benchmarking compostable razor handles
    GSA Innovation Pty Ltd (Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast)
    Open grant
  • 2022
    Development of compostable high barrier biopolymer films for food packaging applications
    Cardia Bioplastics
    Open grant
  • 2021 - 2022
    Development of compostable high barrier biopolymer films for food packaging applications
    Innovation Connections
    Open grant
  • 2021
    Optimisation of PDMA use for recycling of PET fibre
    Blocktexx Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2021
    Development of Personal X-ray protective aprons using extrusion processes
    Innovation Connections
    Open grant
  • 2021 - 2025
    Developing high performance nanocomposite coatings for domestic appliances
    ARC Linkage Projects
    Open grant
  • 2020 - 2024
    Development of next generation smart sucker rod wear guides
    ARC Linkage Projects
    Open grant
  • 2020 - 2021
    Developing high performance nanocomposite coatings for manufacturing domestic appliances
    HBIS Group Co, Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2019 - 2020
    Addressing bio-composite technology gaps
    Composites Innovation Centre Manitoba Inc
    Open grant
  • 2019 - 2023
    Functional biomass carbons for low-cost sodium and potassium-ion batteries
    ARC Linkage Projects
    Open grant
  • 2019 - 2021
    Preparation of Nanocellulose & Nanocomposites as Multifunctional Materials derived from Biomass towards Sustainable Developments (SPARC grant administered by Jamia Millia Islamia)
    Jamia Millia Islamia
    Open grant
  • 2018 - 2019
    Stability study of spinifex nanocellulose in nitrile rubber latex
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2018 - 2019
    Graphene dispersion into bricks
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2018 - 2019
    Graphene as an additive to improve mechanical properties of thermoplastics and clay bodies
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2018 - 2019
    High energy milling of graphene modified polyol
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2018 - 2019
    TenasiTech Nanocomposites R&D - Apr-Dec 2018
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2017 - 2021
    Tough bio-derived and biodegradable wood plastic composites
    ARC Linkage Projects
    Open grant
  • 2017 - 2018
    Anti-scratch nanoadditive performance for plastics customers
    Innovation Connections
    Open grant
  • 2016 - 2017
    Optimisation of nano-additives for plastics customers
    Innovation Connections
    Open grant
  • 2016 - 2017
    National rock, concrete and advanced composite testing capability
    ARC Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities
    Open grant
  • 2016 - 2017
    Process Development - downstream processing of spinifex fibre into Nanofibrillated Cellulose (NFC)
    Dugalunji Aboriginal Corporation
    Open grant
  • 2015
    Cost effective carbon fibres from polyethylene for lightweight applications
    ARC Linkage Projects
    Open grant
  • 2015 - 2017
    Polyurethanes
    Defence Materials Technology Centre
    Open grant
  • 2015 - 2016
    Research & development of polymeric materials for medical applications
    Cook Medical Australia Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2015 - 2016
    Nanocomposite R&D (H2 2015/ H1 2016)
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2015
    Research Sub-Contract & Assignment between UQ and UniQuest for R& D services (March 2015)
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2015 - 2018
    High performance sustainable carbon fibres from Australian spinifex grass
    ARC Discovery Projects
    Open grant
  • 2015 - 2016
    Advanced Macromolecular Thin Film and Materials Characterisation Facility
    UQ Major Equipment and Infrastructure
    Open grant
  • 2014 - 2015
    Nanocomposite R&D Q2 2014 start
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2014
    Evaluating nitrated nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) from native spinifex grass as superior propellant materials.
    UQ Collaboration and Industry Engagement Fund - Seed Research Grant
    Open grant
  • 2014
    Nanocomposite R&D H22013-H12014 (labour elements)
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2013 - 2014
    Nanocomposite R&D
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2013 - 2014
    Nanocomposite R&D - Part 2
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2013
    UQ Travel Awards Category 1 - Professor James Runt
    UQ Travel Grants Scheme
    Open grant
  • 2012 - 2013
    TenasiTech plastics development and manufacture
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2012 - 2013
    TenasiTech plastics development and manufacture
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2012 - 2013
    TenasiTech plastics development and manufacture
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2012
    Joint scale-up of nano-cellulose based polymer nanocomposites
    UQ - Purdue University Early Career Mobility Scheme
    Open grant
  • 2012 - 2013
    Scanning electron microscope to house 3-Dimensional Sectioning Facility
    UQ Major Equipment and Infrastructure
    Open grant
  • 2011 - 2012
    Green biopolymer nanocomposites facility: supercritical carbon dioxide characterisation and processing for nanomaterials and biopolymers
    ARC Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities
    Open grant
  • 2011
    Building UQ's analytical capacity in biomedical sciences
    UQ Major Equipment and Infrastructure
    Open grant
  • 2011
    Complete laboratory to semi-industry scale high energy milling and dispersion facility.
    UQ Major Equipment and Infrastructure
    Open grant
  • 2011 - 2013
    Detection, Characteristics and Dynamics of Airborne Engineered Nanoparticles for Human Exposure Assessment (ARC Discovery Project administered by QUT)
    Queensland University of Technology
    Open grant
  • 2011
    Polymer gas barrier property facility for development of smart membranes, packing and biomedical films
    UQ Major Equipment and Infrastructure
    Open grant
  • 2010 - 2012
    Spinifex as a sustainable bio-resource for the building industry - harvesting feasibility and resin benchmarking
    UQ Collaboration and Industry Engagement Fund
    Open grant
  • 2010
    Nanomechanical testing capability extension for nanotechnology and bioengineering applications
    UQ Major Equipment and Infrastructure
    Open grant
  • 2010
    Radiolabelled nanoparticles for biological investigations
    Australian Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering
    Open grant
  • 2009
    Radiolabelling of industrially-relevant nanoparticles for use in nanotoxicology investigations- towards in-vivo studies
    Australian Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering
    Open grant
  • 2009
    Enabling Software and Equipment for Computational Bio- and Nano-technology
    UQ School/Centre Co-Funding
    Open grant
  • 2009 - 2014
    The Toxicology of Nanomaterials
    NHMRC Project Grant
    Open grant
  • 2008 - 2009
    An Integrated Raman Microscope and in situ STM-TEM Analysis System
    ARC Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities
    Open grant
  • 2008 - 2012
    Towards Novel Biomimetic Building Materials: Evaluating Aboriginal and Western Scientific Knowledge of Spinifex Grasses
    ARC Discovery Projects
    Open grant
  • 2007 - 2010
    Tailored nanoparticles for nanotoxicological studies
    Australian Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering
    Open grant
  • 2007
    Radiolabelling of industrially-relevant nanoparticles for use in nanotoxicology investigations (AINSE Award No. AINGRA07104)
    Australian Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering
    Open grant
  • 2007 - 2009
    Functionable Renewable Plastics: Developing Novel Polysaccharide, Protein and Natural Polyester Based Polymer Nanocomposites.
    ARC Linkage International
    Open grant
  • 2006 - 2007
    Assessment of the utility and performance of novel TPU nanocomposites for solution-dipped glove and condom products
    UQ FirstLink Scheme
    Open grant
  • 2005 - 2008
    Nanotoxicology Feasibility Study
    Queensland Government Smart State Partnership Alliances Facilitation Program
    Open grant
  • 2005 - 2012
    Degradable packaging materials derived from renewable resources
    CRC for Polymers
    Open grant
  • 2005
    Engineering Vessels Using Novel Multilayered, Multicomponent Scaffolds
    University of Queensland Research Development Grants Scheme
    Open grant
  • 2005 - 2007
    Graded Biomaterial for Articular Cartilage Replacement
    ARC Discovery Projects
    Open grant
  • 2004
    The Impact of Organosilicate Dimensionality on the Microdomain Texture in Segmented Polyurethane Nanocomposites
    Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation
    Open grant
  • 2004
    Feasibility Study into Rotational Moulding of Breast Implant Shells
    Aortech Biomaterials Pty. Ltd.
    Open grant
  • 2004
    AUSTRALIAN SYNCHROTRON RESEARCH PROGRAM: Support to visit ChemMatCARS, Advanced Photon Source, USA (27-30 July 2004)
    Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation
    Open grant
  • 2004
    Nanostructured Polymer Processing Network
    ARC Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities
    Open grant
  • 2004
    Anisotropic Nanocomposites For Artificial Intervertebral Spinal Disc Prostheses
    University of Queensland Research Development Grants Scheme
    Open grant
  • 2004
    Design And Prototyping Of A Novel Dynamic Mechanical Bioreactor For Bone Tissue Engineering
    University of Queensland Research Development Grants Scheme
    Open grant
  • 2003 - 2010
    ARC Centre of Excellence for Functional Nanomaterials (administered by UNSW from September 2012 onwards)
    ARC Centres of Excellence
    Open grant
  • 2000
    Investigation into the preparation, processing and properties of polyurethane and polyolefin matrix nanocomposites
    UQ New Staff Research Start-Up Fund
    Open grant

Availability

Professor Darren Martin is:
Available for supervision

Before you email them, read our advice on how to contact a supervisor.

Available projects

  • Enzyme-assisted deconstruction of lignocellulose and reconstruction into high value bio-derived advanced materials

    UQ-DTU joint RHD scholarship scheme

    This project brings together highly-complementary discoveries and expertise in the area of lignocellulose-derived advanced materials as important future substitutes for fossil-based materials. To harness the full potential of lignocellulose, is it paramount that its three native, polymeric structures (cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin) are preserved, however current biomass pre-treatment and refining strategies are too destructive, which significantly reduces the quality, consistency and therefore full potential of current bio-derived materials. In this project, the aims are; (1) to investigate enzyme-assisted, mild fractionation of lignocellulose into these three major polymeric components, and (2) to understand how this approach can be combined with efficient downstream processes for the production and application of lignocellulose-derived advanced materials, including micro and nano-cellulose fibres that could be used in applications such as hydrogels, compostable composites and packaging. This will be done by bringing together the engineering strengths at UQ, and the enzymatic strenths at DTU (Denmark) through collaborative RHD investigations and researcher exchange between UQ and DTU. This joint scheme funds one RHD student in each institution, with exchange and time spent at each laboratory mandatory.

Supervision history

Current supervision

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Developing high performance nanocomposite coatings for manufacturing domestic appliances

    Principal Advisor

    Other advisors: Professor Lisbeth Grondahl, Dr Michael Heitzmann, Dr Grant Edwards

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Green Polymer Nanocomposites based on PBAT and Nanocellulose

    Principal Advisor

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Enzyme-assisted deconstruction of lignocellulose and reconstruction into high value bio-derived advanced materials

    Principal Advisor

    Other advisors: Associate Professor Adrian Oehmen, Dr Mike Tebyetekerwa

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Sustainable processing and polymerisation of novel lignocellulose composite materials

    Principal Advisor

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Exploring lignocellulose-derived nanomaterials in CO2 electrochemical conversion

    Principal Advisor

    Other advisors: Professor Xiwang Zhang, Dr Mike Tebyetekerwa

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Sustainable Incorporation of Lignocellulose into a Sprayable Biodegradable Mulch Film for Australian Broadacre Agriculture

    Principal Advisor

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Optimising the Tribomechanical Performance of Engineering Polyamide 6 through Synergistic Incorporation of Functionalised Organoclay and Solving Wear-Related Issues in Aquaculture Pens Subjected to High-Energy Conditions

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Dr Byron Villacorta, Dr Michael Heitzmann

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Rheological enhancement of biopolymer composites for commercial-scale processing of novel products

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Professor Peter Halley, Dr Michael Heitzmann, Dr Luigi Vandi

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Optimising the Tribomechanical Performance of Engineering Polyamide 6 through Synergistic Incorporation of Functionalised Organoclay and Solving Wear-Related Issues in Aquaculture Pens Subjected to High-Energy Conditions

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Dr Byron Villacorta, Dr Michael Heitzmann

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Optimising the Tribomechanical Performance of Engineering Polyamide 6 through Synergistic Incorporation of Functionalised Organoclay and Solving Wear-Related Issues in Aquaculture Pens Subjected to High-Energy Conditions

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Dr Byron Villacorta, Dr Michael Heitzmann

  • Doctor Philosophy

    High performance starch-based biopolymer films

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Dr Emilie Gauthier, Professor Peter Halley

  • Master Philosophy

    Improving crop establishment with biogels in a variable and changing climate

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Dr Gunnar Kirchhof, Dr Joe Eyre

  • Master Philosophy

    Improving crop establishment with biogels in a variable and changing climate

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Dr Gunnar Kirchhof, Dr Joe Eyre

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Optimizing low emission technology for clean energy transition

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Professor Xiwang Zhang

  • Doctor Philosophy

    High performance starch-based biopolymer films

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Dr Emilie Gauthier, Professor Peter Halley

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Optimising the Tribomechanical Performance of Engineering Polyamide 6 through Synergistic Incorporation of Functionalised Organoclay and Solving Wear-Related Issues in Aquaculture Pens Subjected to High-Energy Conditions

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Dr Byron Villacorta, Dr Michael Heitzmann

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Structure-property-end of life performances of starch-based films

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Professor Bronwyn Laycock, Dr Emilie Gauthier, Professor Peter Halley

Completed supervision

Enquiries

Contact Professor Darren Martin directly for media enquiries about:

  • Chemistry
  • Nanocellulose
  • Nanocomposites
  • Nanotoxicology
  • Polymers
  • Spinifex

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communications@uq.edu.au