We’re proud to share that two of our talented PhD students from the Centre for Biobased and Biodegradable Bioplastics recently showcased their research at the University of Queensland’s School of Chemical Engineering Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition — with outstanding results.
Competitors in the UQ School of Chemical Engineering 3MT competition
Second Place and People’s Choice Award: “Kneading a Better Plastic”
Congratulations to Alia Gallet–Pandellé, who was awarded both Second Place and the People’s Choice Award for their compelling presentation titled “Kneading a Better Plastic: Towards Flexible Biodegradable Packaging.” Drawing a clever analogy between sourdough bread and plastic structure, Alia captivated the audience with their research on improving the flexibility of biodegradable plastics made by bacteria. Their innovative “solvent-stretching” technique reshapes the internal structure of these plastics — increasing stretchability from just 2% to over 200% — without altering the material’s composition. This breakthrough could pave the way for more sustainable, flexible packaging solutions that truly biodegrade.
“Just like a perfect loaf, the secret to strong and flexible sustainable plastics might be in the crumb,” Alia explained.
3MT slide from Alia Gallet–Pandellé’s presentation on “Kneading a Better Plastic: Towards Flexible Biodegradable Packaging”
Innovative Solutions for Agriculture: “Feeding Plants Without Polluting the Planet”
Also representing our centre was Sumedha Amaraweera, who presented “Feeding Plants Without Polluting the Planet: Biodegradable Plastic-Coated Fertilisers.” Their research addresses the environmental impact of conventional fertiliser coatings, which often leave behind persistent microplastics and contribute to nutrient runoff — threatening ecosystems like the Great Barrier Reef.
By developing biodegradable plastic coatings for fertilisers, Sumedha is working to reduce microplastic accumulation in soil and prevent harmful nutrient leaching into waterways. Their work aims to align nutrient release with crop growth cycles, improving efficiency while protecting our environment.
“Growing food should not come at any cost to the planet,” they emphasised.
3MT slide from Sumedha Amaraweera’s presentation on “Feeding Plants Without Polluting the Planet: Biodegradable Plastic-Coated Fertilisers”
We are incredibly proud of our students’ achievements and their contributions to advancing biobased and biodegradable solutions. Their success at the 3MT competition reflects the impact and importance of our research in addressing global sustainability challenges.
Alia Gallet–Pandellé was awarded both second place and the People’s Choice Award, UQ School of Chemical Engineering 3MT Competition
Watch the Talks
We invite you to watch the highlights from both presentations and see how our researchers are shaping a more sustainable future through science and innovation.
