Our laboratory recently hosted a special week of science outreach activities as part of the Science Festival. School students visited the laboratory and brought their curiosity, enthusiasm, and energy into our research environment. Their questions and eagerness to explore made each session an inspiring opportunity for discovery.
The sessions covered a wide range of topics relevant to modern society – from plastics and biodegradable materials, through the invisible world of micro- and nanostructures, to smart polymers and 3D printing for medical applications. The activities demonstrated how materials science can contribute to more sustainable use of resources, environmental protection, and the development of technologies that improve human health and quality of life.
1. ♻️ “Fantastic Plastic?” - Plastic Challenges and Biodegradable Solutions
Dr Judyta Dulnik and Dr Beata Niemczyk-Soczyńska introduced the participants to the history of plastics and their environmental impact. The students learned about biodegradability, explored the properties of more environmentally friendly packaging, and discussed how waste can be managed and used more responsibly.
2. 🔬 “The Invisible World: Through the Lens of a Scanning Electron Microscope”
Dr Judyta Dulnik and MSc Olga Miler took the young explorers on a journey from the macro- to the nanoscale. Using a scanning electron microscope, the participants had the opportunity to observe structures far beyond the limits of the human eye and discover the fascinating world of microscopic materials.
3. 💡 “Polymers and 3D Printing in Medicine – Smart Materials”
Dr Dorota Kołbuk-Konieczny, MSc Maryla Moczulska-Heljak, and MSc Angelika Zaszczyńska demonstrated how 3D printing and electrospinning can be used to develop advanced polymer scaffolds supporting the regeneration of cartilage and bone tissue. The students discovered how technologies of the future bring together chemistry, materials engineering, and medicine.
The Science Festival was a great opportunity to share our passion for science and demonstrate how fascinating materials research can be. We would like to thank all the participants for their enthusiasm, curiosity, and thoughtful questions.
We look forward to seeing you again next year!
