PhD & Postdoc

Amelia Hartmann

Polymer Chemistry · TU Dresden

Amelia Hartmann is developing a family of segmented polyurethane elastomers at TU Dresden's Polymer Chemistry group whose shape-memory switching temperature is precisely tuned to the 37 °C physiological threshold. The materials are designed to be delivered in a compressed temporary form through a catheter and then self-expand into their permanent stent geometry as they warm to body temperature — all without external heating apparatus. Under Prof. Brigitte Schulze, Amelia has established structure–property relationships across twelve copolymer compositions, controlling the soft-segment crystallisation temperature through PTMEG chain length and hard-segment isocyanate selection. In vitro degradation studies show full mass loss within 18 months under simulated in vivo conditions, leaving no chronic foreign-body response. A collaboration with B. Braun Melsungen AG has formalised Amelia's path toward clinical translation, and the associated EU patent application covers her optimal compositional window. Her attendance at EUROMAT 2026 and multiple industry co-author agreements mark a clear transition from academic polymer science toward medical device development.

Thesis Topic

Biodegradable Shape-Memory Polyurethanes Triggered by Physiological Temperature for Minimally Invasive Stent Delivery

Transition Signals