E-mail: cnr-ipcb.segreteria.ct@cnr.it |  Call: +39 095-7338211 |  Address: Via Paolo Gaifami 18, 9 -95126 Catania - Italy

STAFF italian version

Dr. Paola Rizzarelli

Dr. Paola Rizzarelli

PERSONAL INFORMATION

First name, Surname: Paola Rizzarelli

Nationality: Italian

Date of birth:
October 16, 1972


Researcher unique identifier: orcid.org/0000-0002-6727-4335

Scopus Author ID: 57211346123

Linkedin: in/paola-rizzarelli-46858013/

Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Paola_Rizzarelli

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=PoBaejYAAAAJ&hl=it

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

2024 Course (3 h) on "How to maximize the impact of a collaborative proposal in Horizon Europe." APRE/National Research Council (CNR) - Rome
2024 Course (3 h) on "Introduction to Horizon Europe: an Overview." APRE/National Research Council (CNR) - Rome
2023 "First aid course." (8 h) National Research Council (CNR) - Rome
2021 Course (4 h) on "Laboratory safety managers." (Part II) National Research Council (CNR) - Rome
2021 Course (4 h) on "Laboratory safety managers." (Part I) National Research Council (CNR) - Rome
2019 Course (8 h) on "Research valorization - sustaining innovation." National Research Council (CNR) - Rome
2019 Course (4 h) on "Venture e Growth Capital - Innovazione, Ricerca per lo sviluppo delle imprese" giornata di presentazione di PRINCIPIA SGR. National Research Council (CNR) - Rome
2018 Course (4 h) on "How writing a persuasive project in the H2020 program." University of Catania
2016 Course (16 h) on "The H2020 program: how to structure a successful proposal in the NMBP theme." APRE
2010 Advanced course (112 h) on "Enhancement of public research and transfer of results." (Roma - Firenze - Bologna - Napoli) National Research Council (CNR) - Rome
2009 Advanced course (40 h) on "Management and Enhancement of Research", &CoMe Va... la Ricerca?& (Palermo) CNR - Rome
2003 CNR Grant (Short Term Mobility Program) - Structural characterization of synthetic polymers by mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF, MS-MS) Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research (Mainz - Germany)
2002 First Certificate in English Knowledge of English (listening, writing, and speaking) - University of Cambridge
2001 Grant for Scientific Collaboration to Research Activities - Analysis of synthetic polymers by advanced mass spectrometry techniques. CNR - Institute for Chemistry and Technology of Polymeric Materials (Catania)
2000 PhD in Chemistry Thesis:"Biodegradability of synthetic copolyesters"
Professor G. Montaudo - University of Catania (Italy)
2000 Visiting Researcher "Characterization by GC MS of poly(ethylene oxide) and poly(propylen oxide) thermo-oxidation products"
Professor S. Karlsson - Royal Institute of Technology of Stockholm (KTH)
2000 School-Conference on "Industrial Production of Polymers" Italian Association of Macromolecules (AIM)
1996 Summa cum laude Laurea in Chemistry (5 year Course) - Thesis: "Cultural Heritage: development of new protective chemicals for stone materials." - Professor D. M. Grasso, University of Catania

AWARD

April 1996: 8th National Federchimica award - For an Intelligent Future (1996)

OCCUPATIONAL FIELD

Research, dissemination and technological transfer

WORK EXPERIENCE

2023-today Senior Researcher- CNR Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (IPCB)
2001-2022 Researcher - CNR Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (IPCB)

MAIN ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Research activity in polymer chemistry
  • Principal Investigator (PI) in Joint research projects with private companies
  • Responsible and PI of research contracts and service agreements signed with private companies or other CNR Institutes
  • Tutor and supervisor of several fellows in various PON (National Operational Project) and POR (Regional Operational Project) projects
  • Responsible of the research lines: "Synthesis, characterization and degradation of biodegradable polymeric matrices" (DCM.AD001.041.001) and "Bioplastics and biodegradable items" (DCM.AD006.124)
  • CNR IPCB PI for the PRIN PNRR project "SUstainable routes to high PErformance and Recycling of BIOdegradable plastics for a circular economy - SuperBio" - Project Code P2022M3FTM
  • CNR IPCB PI and coordinator of CNR partners for the project "NUSTEO - New Therapeutic Strategies in Ophthalmology: Bacterial, Viral and Microbial Infections" (DCM.AD007.116)
  • Coordinator and PI of the project "Polymeric systems: innovative features and applications in the biomedical and agri-food fields" SPIN-OFF Polimeri - (DCM.AD006.009)
  • CNR IPCB PI of the project "Development of ’Jelly’ fruit-based products"
  • Responsible for the safety of "Degradation" and "Biopolymer" laboratories in IPCB section of Catania

CURRENT RESEARCH FIELDS

The research activities are focused on biodegradable polymers, biocomposites and blends and, particularly, on their characterization and degradation issues related to the specific application field.

Present expertise includes synthesis, characterization (structural, thermal, morphological, etc.), degradation (enzymatic, thermal, thermo- and photo-oxidation, in soil, in compost, and in water) of biodegradable as well as bioresorbable polymers, and evaluation of the performance of biodegradable materials for packaging and items for the agricultural field.

Current efforts concern, but are not limited to
  • development of analytical methods (e.g., to investigate complex blends and manufactured products based on biodegradable polymers);
  • degradation tests combining several deterioration sources (e.g., simulating mechanical degradation and photo-oxidation in marine environment)
  • setting biodegradation procedures in a laboratory scale and real conditions
  • characterization of biodegradable polymers by mass spectrometry for optimization of synthetic routes.

Relevant results carried out are witnessed by several publications in significant international journals as well as invited book chapters and contributions in special issues.

Several activities have been and are still carried out through fruitful collaborations with private and certification companies, laboratories and associations devoted to the safety of the environment.

Various research and service agreements signed with private companies (Agriplast Srl, Publi Embal/Shere Distribution-France, Irritec SpA, Novamont SpA, COESIA SpA; Erreti, Industria Plastica Toscana), TÜV Austria Belgium, Legambiente ONLUS, Chelab/Meriex Nutrisciences, BIOREPACK and other CNR Institutes, concerning biodegradation test, characterization of biodegradable polymers, blends, composites and items claimed to be biodegradable and compostable, are still ongoing, and witness a well-established expertise

HIGHLIGHTS OF RESEARCH FIELDS

  • Biodegradable materials, blends, and composites
  • Evaluation of the properties of commercial biodegradable materials for agricultural, food and medical applications
  • Biodegradation tests of plastic materials, blends, composites (in compost, soil, or water) according to standard methods (ISO; ASTM) and laboratory procedures
  • Characterization of commercial and synthetic polymeric materials
  • Characterization of commercial and synthetic polymers by mass spectrometry (MALDI and ESI MS) and Py-GC/MS
  • Polymer degradation
  • Study of mechanisms of fragmentation and structural analysis of synthetic polymers and copolymers by tandem mass spectrometry
  • Development of Analytical Methods
  • Waste management
  • Bioplastics and circular economy

IMPACT OF THE RESEARCH ACTIVITIES

The experience acquired during my PhD and the collaborations established with various private companies have allowed me to carry out a research activity strongly oriented towards applicative purposes.

In 2016, I developed and fine-tuned an analytical method, published in Journal of Analytical and Applied Pyrolysis (Q1, IF 2022 = 6.0), concerning the determination of polyethylene (PE) in biodegradable polymer blends and in compostable carrier bags by Py-GC/MS and TGA. Compostable carrier bags are complex mixture of several components.

According to the standard specification EN13432, the content of PE in compostable carrier bags must be lower than 1%. The analytical approach, which is the subject of this article, has been, and continues to be, successfully applied in the characterization of carrier bags claimed to be "biodegradable and compostable" according to EN 13432. It represents an exclusivity and a unique reference at an international level.

In fact, since February 2016, the date of research article publication, the method has been regularly used, and further extended, to verify the presence of PE in more than 100 types/lots of bags certified as compostable and contributed to revealing the incidence of illegal bags on the market. The analyses have been commissioned by companies producing (Novamont SpA) and transformers (Industria Plastica Toscana) of biodegradable polymers, Legambiente ONLUS Rome, TUV AUSTRIA BELGIUM, world leader in the certification bioplastics, Italian and foreign sellers (Publi Embal/Sphere distribution, France) and private laboratories (Merieux Nutriscience).

The method and the results achieved under the contract signed with LEGAMBIENTE ONLUS (Rome) were included in the "Un Sacco Giusto" campaign and the subject of a video, filmed at the CNR IPCB in Catania, directed by Simone Corallini, and published by "The new ecology" (viewable at the following links: http://lanuovaecologia.it/shopper-al-test-laboratorio/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Ur7SyXxSPA Illegal shoppers. The analyses of the Cnr of Catania - YouTube). Hundreds of analysis reports were finalized, and tens of thousands of euros invoiced.

The analytical strategy has been also used in biodegradable and compostable items and plastic film residues from composting plants provided by the transmission "Petrolio" - RAI 2.

Additionally, in 2023, a service agreement of two-years concerning the "Analyses on carrier bags claimed biodegradable and compostable according to EN 13432", has been signed with BIOREPACK - CONSORZIO NAZIONALE PER IL RICICLO ORGANICO DEGLI IMBALLAGGI IN PLASTICA BIODEGRADABILE E COMPOSTABILE, system supply chain consortium of Conai.

The signed agreement with BIOREPACK got a relevant media impact.

The results achieved strengthened academic and industrial relationships, cooperation, and networking, at national (Prof. F.P. La Mantia, Prof. M.C. Mistretta University of Palermo, Prof. P. Baglioni CSGI and University of Florence, Prof. A. Dorigato, Prof. G. Fredi University of Trento and Prof. G. Muratore University of Catania) and international levels (Dr. W. Yu, Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (IBFC, CAAS), Prof. N. Reddy, Characterization of biopolymers/ Centre for Incubation Innovation Research and Consultancy/Jyothy Institute of Technology/India, Dr. G. Adamus, Polish Academy of Science), through participation in national and European projects in international consortium (Coordinator: VTT Technical Research Center of Finland Ltd) and the establishment of a cooperation agreement with the IBFC, CAAS, creating new complementary competencies and multidisciplinary/multisectoral skills in research collaboration.

The fruitful collaborations resulted in several joined articles and reviews, invited contributions (16), in peer reviewed International Journal and, very recently, in an application patent (A. Zuliani, T. Guaragnone, P. Rizzarelli, M. Rapisarda, P. Baglioni, F. Brilli, I. Baccelli. "Castor oil-based material for dispensing volatile organic compounds for agricultural applications" - P022962IT-01, 10/08/2023).

Furthermore, as responsible scientist, I believe that it is a duty to take part in the general discussion and inform the public in an accountable and honest way about the potential and weaknesses of biodegradable plastics. On this point, I support and spent time in dissemination activities, involving students, from primary and secondary schools, aimed to support an ecological consciousness and digging in the new generations a lifestyle directed towards the circular economy, helping to improve waste management, and promoting separate collection in less virtuous regions, such as Sicily. In the last years, the themes suggested by the European Week for Waste Reduction (EWWR, https://ewwr.eu/) were the starting points of the initiatives promoted and exploited. Schools spread a culture of respect for the environment under various features. They obviously represent the elective territory for launching information actions capable of producing changes in the habitual attitudes of citizens and on the society. The aim is to educate children so that they disseminate behaviors of respect and protection towards the environment even at home.

SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITIES AS PI

  • Responsible of the CNR research unit and PI substitute in the PRIN 2022 PNRR "SUstainable routes to high PErformance and Recycling of BIOdegradable plastics for a circular economy" - SUPER BIO. Project number P2022M3FTM (30/11/2023-29/11/2025)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a research collaboration agreement signed with Irritec SpA 11/07/2024 - 10/07/2026; Prot. CNR 243047/2024-11/07/2024)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a service agreement of three-years concerning the "Analyses on carrier bags claimed biodegradable and compostable according to EN 13432", signed with BIOREPACK - CONSORZIO NAZIONALE PER IL RICICLO ORGANICO DEGLI IMBALLAGGI IN PLASTICA BIODEGRADABILE E COMPOSTABILE, system supply chain consortium of Conai (12/10/2022-11/10/2025; DCM.AD006.529, Prot. CNR IPCB 2355/2022, Prot. CNR 353309/2023, Prot. CNR393033/2024)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a research contract of two-years concerning "Study and optimization of biodegradable copolyester synthesis processes, application and development of methods for their chemical characterization", signed with Novamont (15/03/2022 - 31/12/2024; Prot. CNR-IPCB 661/2022)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a service agreement of one-year concerning the "Analyses on carrier bags claimed biodegradable and compostable according to EN 13432", signed with TÜV AUTRIA BELGIUM according to the analytical strategy published by P. Rizzarelli et al. in J. Anal. Appl. Pyrol. 117 (2016) 72-81 (29/09/2023-28/09/2024; PRT CNR 287133/2023)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of an annual contract signed with CHELAB srl/Meriex Nutriscience, concerning the "Determination of PE in biodegradable and compostable carrier bags" - (25/09/2023-24/09/2024; Prot. CNR 278882/2023)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a service agreement of two-years concerning the "Analyses on carrier bags claimed biodegradable and compostable according to EN 13432", signed with Erreti S.r.l. (03/05/2022 - 03/05/2024; Prot. CNR-IPCB 1065/2022)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a service agreement of one-year concerning the "Analyses on carrier bags claimed biodegradable and compostable according to EN 13432", signed with TÜV AUTRIA BELGIUM according to the analytical strategy published by P. Rizzarelli et al. in J. Anal. Appl. Pyrol. 117 (2016) 72-81 ("Analyses on carrier bags and other items claimed biodegradable and compostable according to EN 13432", 04/07/2022-03/07/2023, PRT 1611/2022; DCM.AD006.532)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a service agreement of two-years concerning the "Determination of PE in carrier bags claimed biodegradable and compostable", signed with TÜV Austria Belgium (21/01/2021 - 21/01/2023; Prot. CNR-IPCB 150/2021)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of an annual contract signed with CHELAB srl/Meriex Nutriscience, concerning the "Determination of PE in biodegradable and compostable carrier bags" - (21/04/2020-21/04/2022; Prot. CNR-IPCB 765/2020)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator for CNR IPCB of the project "NUSTEO - Nuove Strategie Terapeutiche in Oftalmologia: Infezioni batteriche, Virali e Microbiche" (Project n° 08CT2120090065; CUP: G68I18000700007; DCM.AD007.116; 14/01/2020 - 04/01/2023) funded by PO FESR 2014-2020. Action 1.1.5
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a 26-month contract concerning the "Determination of PE in biodegradable and compostable carrier bags and other items", signed with PUBLI Embal/Shere Distribution France (12/04/2019 - 15/06/2021; Prot CNR-IPCB 624/2019, and further extensions Prot CNR-IPCB 1399/2020, Prot. CNR-IPCB 1921/2020, Prot CNR-IPCB 209/2021)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of an annual contract concerning the "Determination of PE in biodegradable and compostable carrier bags", signed with TÜV Austria Belgium (05/04/2019 - 31/10/2020; Prot. CNR-IPCB 583 - 05/04/2019)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of an annual contract concerning biodegradation test in soil of polymeric film samples, biodegradable and traditional, photo-oxidized and not, signed with Agriplast S.r.l. (20/09/2018 - 20/09/2019; Prot. CNR-IPCB 1864 - 20/09/2018; Project n° DCM.AD006.124.002 "Bioplastiche e manufatti biodegradabili" - WP DCM.AD006.124.002 AGRIPLAST)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a six-monthly contract concerning the "Determination of PE in biodegradable and compostable carrier bags", signed with TÜV Austria Belgium (29/08ρ2018 - 28/02/2019; Prot. CNR-IPCB 1718 - 29/08/2018; Project n° DCM.AD006.124.001 "Bioplastiche e manufatti biodegradabili" - WP DCM.AD001.041.002 "Determinazione di PE in sacchi biodegradabili e compostabili")
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of an annual contract signed with Novamont SpA ("Structural and quantitative analysis of biodegradable polymeric items") - (29/05/2018 - 29/05/2019; Prot. CNR-IPCB 1229 - 29/05/2018; Project n° DCM.AD006.124.003 "Bioplastiche e manufatti biodegradabili" - WP DCM.AD006.124.003 NOVAMONT CONTRATTO DEL 29/05/2018)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a service agreement with the CNR ISMAC (Istituto per lo studio delle macromolecole) concerning biodegradation test of polymer samples according to ISO 14851 - (10/05/2018 - 09/05/2019; Prot. CNR-IPCB 1085 - 10/05/2018; Project n° DCM.AD001.227.004 Apollo - WP DCM.AD001.227.003 IPCB Catania consulenza)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of the project "Polymeric systems: innovative features and applications in the biomedical and agri-food fields", funded under the Call 11/2017 - Strengthening employability in the R&D system and the emergence of research spin offs in Sicily (Project n° 2014.IT.05.SFOP.014/3/10.4/9.2.10/0009; DCM.AD006.009) - PO FSE Sicily 2020
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a contract signed with IPT ("Determination of PE in biodegradable items based on Mater Bi") - (16/6/2017-15/12/2017; Prot. CNR-IPCB 1415 - 21/06/2017)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a contract signed with IPT ("Determination of PE in biodegradable items based on Mater Bi") - (01/12/2016-31/05/2017; Prot. CNR-IPCB 3022 - 01/12/2016)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a biannual contract signed with CHELAB srl/Meriex Nutriscience ("Determination of PE in biodegradable and compostable carrier bags") - (25/7/2016-25/7/2018; Prot. CNR-IPCB 2252 - 05/09/2016; Project n°DCM.AD001.041 MATERIALI BIODEGRADABILI - WP DCM.AD001.041.001 Sintesi, caratterizzazione e degradazione di materiali polimerici biodegradabili)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a biannual contract signed with LEGAMBIENTE ONLUS Roma ("Determination of PE in biodegradable and compostable manufactured products") - (7/01/2016-07/01/2018; Prot. CNR-IPCB 577 - 26/02/2016; Project n°DCM.AD001.041 MATERIALI BIODEGRADABILI - WP DCM.AD001.041.001 Sintesi, caratterizzazione e degradazione di materiali polimerici biodegradabili)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of an annual contract signed with Novamont SpA ("Structural and quantitative analysis of biodegradable polymeric items") - (25/05/2015 - 25/05/2016; Prot. CNR-IPCB 1926 - 25/05/2015; Project n° DCM.AD001.041 MATERIALI BIODEGRADABILI - WP DCM.AD001.041.001 Sintesi, caratterizzazione e degradazione di materiali polimerici biodegradabili)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a contract signed with Irritec SpA ("Soil burial test of polymeric items") (12/01/2015 - 12/06/2015; Prot. CNR-IPCB 83 - 15/01/2015; Project n° DCM.AD001.041 MATERIALI BIODEGRADABILI - WP DCM.AD001.041.001 Sintesi, caratterizzazione e degradazione di materiali polimerici biodegradabili)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a convention of hospitality signed with Novamont SpA (19/01/2015 - 19/07/2015; Prot. CNR-IPCB 82 - 15/01/2015) under the project "Formation of highly skilled researchers and scientists focused on research and development of new processes for the production of biochemicals, materials and energy from raw materials from renewable sources" related to the project "REBIOCHEM", funded by Ministry of Education, Universities and Research as part of the National Technology Cluster of Green Chemistry SPRING - Sustainable Processes and Resources for Innovation and National Growth
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of a contract signed with COESIA SpA ("Commercial biodegradable polymers for food packaging") (12/02/2014 - 03/10/2014; Prot. CNR-IPCB 315 - 12/02/2014)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator for CNR IPCB - Regional Project presented jointly with Dolfin SpA ("Development of ’Jelly’ fruit-based products") (01/2012 - 12/2014; Prot. CNR-ICTP 226 - 17/02/2012)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator of two contracts signed with Novamont ("Characterization of biodegradable polymer samples and quantification of residual monomers"; Prot. CNR-ICTP 299 - 28/02/2012)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator - PON Work project "Research and development of packaging with controlled permeability for fresh-cut products" (Prot. CNR-ICTP 2133 - 09/10/2012); PON02 00451 project "Integrated use of innovative technological approaches to improve the shelf-life and preserve the nutritional properties of food products (SHELF-LIFE)"
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator - PON Work project "Research and development of biodegradable polymeric multilayer film with barrier properties" (Prot. CNR-ICTP 2133 - 09/10/2012); PON02 00451 project "Integrated use of innovative technological approaches to improve the shelf-life and preserve the nutritional properties of food products (SHELF-LIFE)"
  • Team member - Project GREENER-FIRB 2010 (RBFR10DCS7) "Towards nanocomposites multi-functional, efficient, stable and environmentally friendly bio-based plastic of technological interest by immobilization of nanoparticles functionalized molecules and stabilizers" (Prot. CNR-ICTP 438 del 19/03/2012)
  • Responsible and Principal Investigator - PON Work project "Development of non-biodegradable polymer matrices for the controlled release of cortisone drugs" (Prot. CNR-ICTP 893 - 19/09/2011); PON01 00074 project "High-tech devices for biomedical applications (DIATEME)"

PUBLICATIONS/BOOKS AND ARTICLES

Author of 60 publications: 51 research articles/reviews in international journals, 9 book chapters (corresponding author of 37 (64%), last or first author in 39 (67%)); Sum of the Times Cited: 1649; H-index: 23; source: Scopus; Sum of the Times Cited: 1417; H-index: 22; source: WoS; Sum of the Times Cited: 2044; H-index: 25; source: Google Scholar; accessed on 21 March, 2025; more than 30 technical reports and about 70 conference contributions, one plenary lecture and four lectures as invited speaker in international meetings.
citations of Paola Rizzarelli publications

  1. D’Arienzo, L., Marchetta, F., Di Maio, L., Botta, L., Mistretta; M.C., Rizzarelli, P., Leanza, M., Scarfato, P. Sustainable Biocomposites from Polybutylene Succinate Reinforced with Glochids: Combining Waste Valorization with Improved Material Properties and Accelerated Biodegradability. Composites Communications, submitted March 2025
  2. Yu, W., Luo, L., Tang, Z., Rizzarelli, P., Santagata, G., Tan, Z. Preservation mechanisms of jute fibers derived cellulose nanofibril composite films for banana storage: Effects of chemical composition and particle size. Celluloses, https://doi.org/10.1007/s10570-025-06481-3
  3. Titone, V., Rapisarda, M., Pulvirenti, L., Napoli, E., Impallomeni, G., Botta, L., Mistretta, M.C., Rizzarelli*, P. Sustainable Biocomposites Based on Mater-Bi and Grape Pomace for a Circular Economy: Performance Evaluation and Degradation in Soil. Polymer Degradation and Stability, Special issue: MoDeSt 2024 Conference. 231, 2025, 111091, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2024.111091 OPEN ACCESS
  4. Fredi, G., Perin, D., Zardo, C., Rapisarda, M., Rizzarelli, P., Soccio, M., Lotti, N., Dorigato, A. Compatibilized polylactide/poly(pentamethylene furanoate) blends for fully bioderived packaging films with enhanced fracture toughness and UV- and O2-barrier properties. Giant, 2024, 18, 100267. 10.1016/j.giant.2024.100267. Gold Open Access
  5. Baiamonte, M., Rapisarda, M., Mistretta, M.C., La Mantia*, F.P., Rizzarelli*, P. Wood flour and hazelnut shells polylactide-based biocomposites for packaging applications: Characterization, photo-oxidation, and compost burial degradation. Polymer Composites, 2024. 10.1002/pc.28439
  6. Rizzarelli*, P., Zuliani, A., Reddy, N. Editorial: Chemistry and the circular economy. Frontiers in Chemistry, 2023, 11, 1350994. 10.3389/fchem.2023.1350994. Invited Contribution. Gold Open Access
  7. Rizzarelli*, P., Leanza, M., Rapisarda, M. Investigations into the characterization, degradation and applications of biodegradable polymers by mass spectrometry. (2023) Mass Spectrometry Reviews, invited contribution to a special issue dedicated to Professor Wesdemiotis’s career. 10.1002/mas.21869. Invited Contribution. Hybrid Gold Open Access
  8. Rizzarelli*, P., Rapisarda, M. Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption and Electrospray Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometry of Microbial and Synthetic Biodegradable Polymers. (2023) Polymers, 15 (10), art. no. 2356. DOI: 10.3390/polym15102356. Invited Contribution. OPEN ACCESS: All Open Access, Gold, Green
  9. Ferreri, L., Rapisarda, M., Leanza, M., Munzone, C., D'Antona, N., Consoli*, G.M.L., Rizzarelli*, P., Spina, E.T.A. Calix[4]arene Derivative for Iodine Capture and Effect on Leaching of Iodine through Packaging. (2023) Molecules, 28 (4), art. no. 1869. DOI: 10.3390/molecules28041869. Invited Contribution. OPEN ACCESS: All Open Access, Gold, Green
  10. Zuliani, A., Rapisarda, M., Chelazzi, D., Baglioni, P., Rizzarelli*, P. Synthesis, Characterization, and Soil Burial Degradation of Biobased Polyurethanes. (2022) Polymers, 14 (22), art. no. 4948. DOI: 10.3390/polym14224948. Invited Contribution. OPEN ACCESS: All Open Access, Gold, Green
  11. M. Rapisarda, M.C. Mistretta, M. Scopelliti, M. Leanza, F.P. La Mantia,* P. Rizzarelli*. Influence of calcium carbonate nanoparticles on the soil burial degradation of polybutyleneadipate-co-butylenetherephthalate films. Nanomaterials, 12 (13), art. no. 2275. DOI: 10.3390/nano12132275. OPEN ACCESS: All Open Access, Gold, Green
  12. P. Rizzarelli*, S. La Carta, E.F. Mirabella, M. Rapisarda, G. Impallomeni. Sequencing Biodegradable and Potentially Biobased Polyesteramide of Sebacic Acid and 3-Amino-1-propanol by MALDI TOF-TOF Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Polymers (Open access) 14(8) (2022) 1500. 10.3390/polym14081500
  13. D. Nataraj, V. Guna, P. Battampara, S. Nagananda, P. Rizzarelli, N. Reddy. Extraction and characterisation of bioactive proteins from Pongamia pinnata and their conversion into bioproducts for food packaging applications. Journal of Bioactive and Compatible Polymers 36(5), (2021) 365-379. 10.1177/08839115211043280
  14. P. Rizzarelli*, M. Rapisarda, L. Ascione, F. Degli Innocenti, F. Paolo La Mantia. Influence of Photo-Oxidation on the Performance and Soil Degradation of Oxo- and Biodegradable Polymers for Agricultural Applications. Polymer Degradation and Stability 188 (2021) 109578. 10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2021.109578
  15. M. Rapisarda, C. Patanè, A. Pellegrino, A. Malvuccio, V. Rizzo, G. Muratore, P. Rizzarelli*. Compostable polylactide and cellulose based packaging for fresh-cut cherry tomatoes: Performance evaluation and influence of sterilization treatment. Materials (Open access) 13(15) (2020) 1-18, Invited Contribution. https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13153432
  16. F.P. La Mantia*, L. Ascione, M.C. Mistretta, M. Rapisarda, P. Rizzarelli*. Comparative investigation on the soil burial degradation behaviour of polymer films for agriculture before and after photo-oxidation. Polymers (Open access) 12(4) (2020) 753-765 https://doi.org/10.3390/polym12040753
  17. P. Rizzarelli*, M. Rapisarda, G. Valenti. Mass spectrometry in bioresorbable polymer development, degradation and drug-release tracking. Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom. 34(S2) (2020) e8697 - Special Issue: Polymer Mass Spectrometry - Invited Contribution. https://doi.org/10.1002/rcm.8697
  18. P. Rizzarelli*, G. Piredda*, S. La Carta, E.F. Mirabella, G. Valenti, R. Bernet, G. Impallomeni. Characterization and laser-induced degradation of a medical grade polylactide. Polymer Degradation and Stability. 169 (2019) 108991. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2019.108991
  19. M. Rapisarda, F.P. La Mantia*, M. Ceraulo, M.C. Mistretta, C. Giuffrè, R. Pellegrino, G. Valenti, P. Rizzarelli*. Photo-Oxidative and Soil Burial Degradation of Irrigation Tubes Based on Biodegradable Polymer Blends. Polymers (Open access). 11(9) (2019) 1489-1502. doi:10.3390/polym11091489
  20. C. Patanè, A. Malvuccio, A. Saita, P. Rizzarelli, L. Siracusa, V. Rizzo, G. Muratore. Nutritional changes during storage in fresh-cut long storage tomato as affected by biocompostable polylactide and cellulose based packaging. LWT - Food Science and Technology. 101, (2019) 618-624. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lwt.2018.11.069
  21. C. Patanè, A. Malvuccio, A. Saita, P. Rizzarelli, M. Rapisarda, V. Rizzo, G. Muratore. Physical, physiological and microbial quality of fresh-cut long storage tomato as affected by packaging, calcium chloride treatment and storage time. International Journal of Food Science and Technology 53(3), (2018) 819-827
  22. M. Rapisarda, G. Valenti, D.C. Carbone, P. Rizzarelli*, G. Recca, S. La Carta, R. Paradisi, S. Finocchiaro. Strength, fracture and compression properties of gelatins by a new 3D printed tool. Journal of Food Engineering 220 (2018) 38-48
  23. A. Ierna, P. Rizzarelli, A. Malvuccio, M. Rapisarda. Effect of different anti-browning agents on quality of minimally processed early potatoes packaged on a compostable film. LWT - Food Science and Technology. 85 Part B (2017) 434-439
  24. G. Valenti, S. La Carta, G. Mazzotti, M. Rapisarda, S. Perna, R. Di Gesù, L. Giorgini, D.C. Carbone, G. Recca, P. Rizzarelli*. Controlled and Sustained Release of a Corticosteroid Drug from Block Copolymers Synthetized by ATRP. Polym. Eng. Sci. 57 (2017) 570-578
  25. N.T. Dintcheva, R. Arrigo, M. Baiamonte, P. Rizzarelli, G. Curcuruto. Concentration-dependent anti-/pro-oxidant activity of natural phenolic compounds in bio-polyesters. Polym. Degr. Stab. 142 (2017) 21-28. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2017.05.022
  26. V. Rizzo, G. Sapienza, C. Restuccia, G. Mauromicale, S. Lombardo, G.R. Pesce, M. Rapisarda, S. Perna, P. Rizzarelli, G. Muratore. Shelf life evaluation of fresh-cut globe artichoke packaged in a compostable biobased film. Italian Journal of Food Science - Open Access 28 (2016) 7-12
  27. G. Gorrasi, A. Meduri, P. Rizzarelli, S. Carroccio, G. Curcuruto, C. Pellecchia, D. Pappalardo. Preparation of poly(glycolide-co-lactide)s through a green process: Analysis of structural, thermal, and barrier properties. Reactive and Functional Polymers 109 (2016) 70-78
  28. P. Rizzarelli*, M. Rapisarda, S. Perna, E.F. Mirabella, S. La Carta, C. Puglisi, G. Valenti. Determination of polyethylene in biodegradable polymer blends and in compostable carrier bags by Py-GC/MS and TGA. Journal of Analytical and Applied Pyrolysis 117 (2016) 72-81
  29. G. Valenti, S. La Carta, G. Mazzotti, M. Rapisarda, S. Perna, R. Di Gesù, L. Giorgini, D.C. Carbone, G. Recca, P. Rizzarelli*. "Controlled release of cortisone drugs from block copolymers synthetized by ATRP" AIP Conference Proceedings Volume 1736, 18 May 2016, Article number 4949681. 8th International Conference on Times of Polymers and Composites: From Aerospace to Nanotechnology; Ischia, Napoli; 19-23 June 2016
  30. P. Rizzarelli, M. Cirica, G. Pastorelli, C. Puglisi, G. Valenti. Aliphatic poly(ester amide)s from sebacic acid and aminoalcohols of different chain lengths: synthesis, characterization and soil burial degradation. Polymer Degradation and Stability 121 (2015) 90-99
  31. F. Cicogna, S. Coiai, P. Rizzarelli, S. Carroccio, C. Gambarotti, I. Domenichelli, C. Yang, N. Tz. Dintcheva, G. Filippone, C. Pinzino, E. Passaglia. Functionalization of aliphatic polyesters by nitroxide radical coupling. Polymer Chemistry 5 (2014) 5656-5667
  32. P. Rizzarelli*, S. Carroccio. Modern mass spectrometry in the characterization and degradation of biodegradable polymers. Analytica Chimica Acta 808 (2014) 18-43 (Review article). Invited Contribution
  33. P. Rizzarelli*. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight/time-of-flight tandem mass spectra of biodegradable polybutylenesuccinate. Rapid commun. Mass spectrom. 27 (19) (2013) 2213-2225
  34. S. Carroccio, P. Rizzarelli, D. Zampino. A Snapshot of Thermo-Oxidative Degradation Products in Poly(bisphenol A carbonate) by Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry and Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry. Macromol. Chem. Phys. (2011) 212 (24) 2648-2666
  35. P. Rizzarelli*, D. Zampino, L. Ferreri, G. Impallomeni. Direct Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry Quantitative Analysis of Sebacic and Terephthalic Acids in Biodegradable Polymers. Analytical chemistry 83 (3) (2011) 654-660
  36. K. Fukushima, D. Tabuani, C. Abbate, M. Arena, P. Rizzarelli. Preparation, characterization and biodegradation of biopolymer nanocomposites based on fumed silica. Europ. Polym. J. 47 (2) (2011) 139-152
  37. K. Fukushima, C. Abbate, D. Tabuani, M. Gennari, P. Rizzarelli, G. Camino. Biodegradation trend of poly(epsilon-caprolactone) and nanocomposites. Materials science & engineering C-materials for biological applications 30 (4) (2010) 566-574
  38. P. Rizzarelli*, S. Carroccio. Thermo-oxidative processes in biodegradable poly(butylene succinate). Polymer Degradation and Stability 94 (2009) 1825-1838
  39. S. Carroccio, P. Rizzarelli, G. Scaltro, C. Puglisi. Comparative investigation of photo- and thermal-oxidation processes in poly(butylene terephthalate). Polymer 49 (2008) 3371-3381
  40. P. Rizzarelli*, C. Puglisi. Structural characterization of synthetic poly(ester amide) from sebacic acid and 4-amino-1-butanol by matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight/time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry. Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry 22 (2008) 739-754
  41. P. Rizzarelli*, C. Puglisi, G. Montaudo. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight/time-of-flight tandem mass spectra of poly(butylene adipate). Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry 20 (2006) 1683-1694
  42. G. Adamus, P. Rizzarelli, M.S. Montaudo, M. Kowalczuk, G. Montaudo. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry with size-exclusion chromatographic fractionation for structural characterization of synthetic aliphatic copolyesters. Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry 20 (2006) 804-814
  43. P. Rizzarelli*, C. Puglisi, G. Montaudo. Sequence determination in aliphatic poly(ester amide)s by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight and time-of-flight/time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry. Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry 19 (2005) 2407-2418
  44. P. Rizzarelli, G. Impallomeni, G. Montaudo. Evidence for Selective Hydrolysis of Aliphatic Copolyesters Induced by Lipase Catalysis. Biomacromolecules 5 (2004) 433-444
  45. P. Rizzarelli*, C. Puglisi, G. Montaudo. Soil burial and enzymatic degradation in solution of aliphatic co-polyesters. Polymer Degradation and Stability 85 (2004) 855-863
  46. S. Carroccio, P. Rizzarelli*, C. Puglisi, G. Montaudo. MALDI Investigation of Photooxidation in Aliphatic Polyesters: Poly(butylene succinate). Macromolecules 37 (2004) 6576-6586
  47. G. Gallet, S. Carroccio, P. Rizzarelli, S. Karlsson. Thermal degradation of poly(ethylene oxide-propylene oxide-ethylene oxide) triblock copolymer: Comparative study by SEC/NMR, SEC/MALDI-TOF-MS and SPME/GC-MS. Polymer 43 (2002) 1081-1094
  48. P. Rizzarelli, C. La Rosa, A. Torrisi. Testing a fluorinated compound as a protective material for calcarenite. Journal of Cultural Heritage 2 (2001) 55-62
  49. G. Montaudo, P. Rizzarelli. Synthesis and enzymatic degradation of aliphatic copolyesters. Polymer Degradation and Stability 70 (2000) 305-314
  50. S. Carroccio, P. Rizzarelli, C. Puglisi. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight characterisation of biodegradable aliphatic copolyesters. Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry 14 (2000) 1513-1522
  51. G. Spoto, P. Rizzarelli, A. Torrisi. Fluorinated Phosphoric Ester-Based Protective Material for Limestone-Made Ancient Monuments, Buildings, and Artifacts: An X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Study. Applied Spectroscopy 54 (2000) 1817-1823

Book Chapters

  1. P. Rizzarelli*, M. Rapisarda, F.P. La Mantia. Biodegradable polymer-based items for agriculture: Influence of photo-oxidation on the performance, soil degradation and environmental issues. Comprehensive Book Chapter in Elsevier Comprehensive Polymer Science, 2nd edition. Invited Contribution https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-95486-0.00079-X
  2. P. Rizzarelli*, M. Rapisarda. Tandem mass spectrometry in the analysis of biodegradable polymers. Mass Spectrometry: Theory and Applications, 2021, pp. 127-181. William O. Nichols Editor. Nova Science Publishers. ISBN 978-153619874-4, 978-1-53619-790-7. Invited Contribution
  3. P. Rizzarelli*, F. Degli Innocenti, G. Valenti, M. Rapisarda. "Biodegradation of Green Polymer Composites: Laboratory Procedures and Standard Test Methods". In Advanced Applications of Bio-degradable Green Composites, Materials Research Foundations, Vol. 68, pp 1-44, 2020. Invited Contribution. https://doi.org/10.21741/9781644900659-1
  4. P. Rizzarelli*, M. Rapisarda, G. Valenti, G. Impallomeni. "Biodegradable polymers: from synthesis to applications". The fiftieth anniversary of the Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials. Current Research Activity. Luigi Ambrosio Editor. CNR Edizioni, ISBN 9788880803652, 2019
  5. P. Rizzarelli*, S. La Carta, M. Rapisarda, G. Valenti. "Analytical methods in resorbable polymer development and degradation tracking". "Composites in Biomedical Engineering (1-9) Multi-Volume SET" Materials for Biomedical Engineering: Absorbable Polymers, Edited by: Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu, Elsevier, pp. 351-408, 2019. Invited Contribution. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-818415-8.00013-9
  6. P. Rizzarelli*, S. Carroccio. "Recent trends in the structural characterization and degradation of biodegradable polymers by modern mass spectrometry." Published in "Biodegradable Polymers. Volume 1: Advancement in Biodegradation Study and Applications" Editors: Chih-Chang Chu - Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA. Pub. Date: 2016 - 1st Quarter. ISBN: 978-1-63483-632-6. Nova Science Publishers. Invited Contribution
  7. P. Rizzarelli*, S. Carroccio. "Role of mass spectrometry in the elucidation of thermal degradation mechanisms in polymeric materials." in "Reaction Mechanisms in Thermal Analysis of Materials". Editors: Atul Tiwari, Baldev Raj. Published Online: 31 JUL 2015 09:24PM EST Print ISBN: 9781119117575. Online ISBN: 9781119117711. Scrivener publishing WILEY, USA. Invited Contribution. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781119117711.ch10
  8. S. Carroccio, P. Rizzarelli. "Spettrometria di Massa MALDI ed ESI per l'analisi dei polimeri in soluzione" Published in "CARATTERIZZAZIONE DI MATERIALI POLIMERICI. Tecniche per polimeri in soluzione". 2014. Nuova Cultura. Collana AIM quaderni ISSN 2039-8816, ISBN: 9788868123048. DOI: 10.4458/3048. Invited Contribution
  9. P. Rizzarelli*, S. Carroccio, C. Puglisi. "Polymer degradation", Chapter 13 in "Mass spectrometry in polymer chemistry". C. Barner-Kowollik, T. Grundling, J. Falkenhagen, S. Weidner (Editors), Wiley-VCH (2012). Invited Contribution. https://doi.org/10.1002/9783527641826.ch13

TEACHING, SCIENTIFIC DISSEMINATION, PCTO AND TRAINING ACTIVITIES

  • Invited lecturer (4h) at the Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A) of the University of Catania, as part of the teaching of Food packaging of the degree course in Food Sciences and Technologies (LM70), on "BIODEGRADABLE POLYMERS AND THEIR APPLICATIONS IN THE AGRI-FOOD SECTOR" (22/04/2024).
  • Contract expert professor on "Giocando con i polimeri" (Prot. 0000041 - 04/01/2024, 10 h, February-April 2024) within the project "UNA SCUOLA EUROPEA INCLUSIVA" (CUP H64D22004820006) financially supported by EU - Next Generation EU. Azioni di prevenzione e contrasto della dispersione scolastica (D.M. 170/2022), Missione 4 - Istruzione e ricerca, Componente 1 - Potenziamento dell’offerta dei servizi di istruzione: dagli asili nido alle università - Investimento 1.4 Intervento straordinario finalizzato alla riduzione dei divari territoriali nelle scuole secondarie di primo e di secondo grado e alla lotta alla dispersione scolastica
  • Invited lecturer on "Bioplastics and the circular economy" at the IC EUROPA - Barrafranca (EN) (15/12/2023
  • P. Rizzarelli, M. Rapisarda (2023). "Sustainable Packaging". Invited dissemination activity at IC Pizzigoni/Carducci in Catania (PRT CNR 362144/2023 - 23/11/2023) within the European Week for Waste Reduction (24/11/2023)
  • Dissemination activity (PRT CNR 278828/2023 - 25/09/2023) within the project EBW 2023 "Porte aperte al CNR", on "Polymeric materials: from research to technological innovation" (26/09/2023, 4h)
  • Dissemination and teaching activity (PRT CNR 145444/2023 - 11/05/2023) within the event "Ambiente e Salute: come la Chimica interviene" (6h) on "From macromolecules to plastic materials" (25/05/2023)
  • Invited lecturer (2h) at the Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A) of the University of Catania, as part of the teaching of Food packaging of the degree course in Food Sciences and Technologies (LM70), on "BIODEGRADABLE POLYMERS AND THEIR USES IN THE AGRI-FOOD SECTOR" (08/05/2023)
  • P. Rizzarelli, G. Recca, M. Leanza e M. Rapisarda (2023). "Circular and Sustainable Textile". Invited dissemination activities (PRT CNR 77001/2023 - 15/03/2023 and PRT CNR 102421ρ2023 - 05/04/2023) at IC F. Petrarca in Catania (20 - 21 april 2023, 8h)
  • P. Rizzarelli, G. Recca, M. Rapisarda (2022). "Circular and Sustainable Textile". Invited dissemination activities at IC Pizzigoni/Carducci di Catania (PRT 2869/2023 - 28/11/2023) within the European Week for Waste Reduction (28/11/2022, 4h)
  • Dissemination activity (PRT CNR IPCB 2234/2022 - 26/09/2022) within the project EBW 2023 "Porte aperte al CNR", on "Biotechnological paths: macromolecules and polymeric materials" (29/09/2022, 4h)
  • P. Rizzarelli, M. Leanza, M. Rapisarda (2022). Invited Lecturer on the dissemination activities on "Bioplastics and Circular Economy: Dissemination Experiences for a More Sustainable Society" in "Il CNR di Catania oltre la ricerca", CNR - via P. Gaifami, Catania (30/03/2022)
  • Dissemination activity (Prot. CNR IPCB 000381 - 11/03/2019) within the Erasmus+ project "Digital and media literacy for sustainable life learning" on "Function of digital instruments relating to the creation of devices" organized for 12 professors from Latvia, France, Bulgaria, Romania, Tunisia and the "Enrico Fermi - Eridia" Institute in Catania (14/03/2019)
  • P. Rizzarelli, G. Recca, A. Spina, M. Rapisarda, A. Grasso (2019). Dissemination activity on "Recycling, plastics and bioplastics" (Prot. CNR-IPCB 203 - 11/02/2019) for the students of the IC "Sante Giuffrida" di Catania (19-26/02/2019, 8h).
    http://www.ipcb.ct.cnr.it/ct/News/SanteGiuffrida_19_26_febb_2019.pdf,
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hC03MAcrYA
  • Contract professor on "Bioplastics: an ecological and sustainable choice" within the project PNSD "ThiCreNet: THInk CREate NETwork" (30 h) - ITI S. Cannizzaro, Catania (Prt. 00003730-017/01/2022).
  • Invited Lecturer on "Bioplastics and circular economy" - IC C. Sturzo, Catania (20/04/2022)
  • Invited Lecturer on "Bioplastics and circular economy" - IIS C. Marchesi, Mascalucia (CT) (06/04/2022)
  • Invited Lecturer on "Bioplastics and circular economy" within the "European Week for Waste Reduction" 2021 - IC Pizzigoni Carducci, Catania (24-26/11/2021).
  • Invited Lecturer on "Bioplastics and the biological recycle: a contribution to waste management" - Web seminar for Abadir Academy of Design and Visual Arts, Catania (03/02/2021).
  • Tutor and Lecturer within the project "Polymeric systems: innovative features and applications in the biomedical and agri-food fields", funded under the Call 11/2017 - Strengthening employability in the R&D system and the emergence of research spin offs in Sicily (Project n° 2014.IT.05.SFOP.014/3/10.4/9.2.10/0009) - PO FSE Sicily 2020. (11/5/2018-20/12/2018; tutorship: 16/3/2018-15/9/2019).
  • Invited Lecturer on "Bioplastics: their contribution to waste management" at the University of Catania (3h), within the Master in "Environmental law and land management" (15/05/2019)
  • Tutor of four students within a school-work alternation program signed with the Industrial Technical Institute "Stanislao Cannizzaro" in Catania (March 2017 - June 2018)
  • Tutor of eight students within a school-work alternation program signed with the Industrial Technical Institute "Stanislao Cannizzaro" in Catania (November 2015 - June 2016)
  • December 2014-February 2015 - Lecturer on "BIOPOLYMERS" and tutor of three fellows within the PON02 00451 project - "Integrated use of innovative technological approaches to improve the shelf-life and preserve the nutritional properties of food products (SHELF LIFE)" funded by the National Operational Program Research and Competitiveness 2007 - 2013
  • Invited Lecturer on "MALDI and ESI mass spectrometry for the analysis of polymers in solution" AIM SCHOOL "CHARACTERIZATION OF POLYMERIC MATERIALS: TECHNIQUES FOR POLYMERS IN SOLUTION" May 18-23 2014 - Gargnano, Italy
  • October-November 2014: Contract professor at the University of Catania (30h) on "CHARACTERIZATION OF POLYMER MATRICES FOR DRUG DELIVERY" - PON02_00355_2964193, Project "HIPPOCRATES - Development of Micro and Nano-Technologies and Advanced Systems for Health Issues" funded by the National Operational Programme Research and Competitiveness 2007 - 2013
  • Tutor and Lecturer within the training project in the framework of the 2007/2013 Italy-Tunisia cross-border cooperation program - Project "Innovative polymer materials and quality control for the improvement of cross-border development strategies (POLYMEDA)." Prog. 075
  • February-June 2013: Contract professor at the University of Catania on "BIOPOLYMERS" - PON01_02239 Project "MATRECO - Advanced materials for sustainable transport" funded by the National Operational Programme Research and Competitiveness 2007 - 2013
  • January-February 2013 - Lecturer on "BIODEGRADABLE POLYMERS" - PON01_00074 project "High-tech devices for biomedical applications (DIATEME)" funded by the National Operational Programme Research and Competitiveness 2007 - 2013. Tutor of three Fellows within the same Project
  • June 2012 - Contract professor at the "Science and Technology Park (Sicily)" on "BIOPOLYMERS" within the Higher Education Framework "Technical research in biopolymers and biosurfactants of microbial origin", funded by the National Operational Programme Research and Competitiveness 2007 - 2013 PON01_01377/F. Organizer of a Training Programme (ICTP UOS of Catania) focusing mainly on the analysis of biodegradable polymers. Within the same Programme, tutor and supervisor of two fellows who specifically focused on activities relating to "Evaluation of paper impregnated with PHA for food packaging" and "Soil burial (bio)degradation test" (February-March 2013
  • 2012-2025: 13/Fellowship Students
  • 2007-2024: 13/Scholarship Students
  • 2015-2018: 12/Tutorship Secondary School Students
  • 2001-2024: 9/Master Students/UniCT

MULTIMEDIA AND WEB SITES

  1. M. Leanza, P. Rizzarelli, et al. Video on the CNR NUSTEO project activities (IPCB, ICB e IPCF) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G00bc1aX_Dg
  2. D.A. Romeo, P. Rizzarelli, M. Cro, S. Catara. Web site Nusteo project: http://www.ipcb.ct.cnr.it/Nusteo
  3. Paola Rizzarelli et al. Video "Bioplasticando all’ITI Cannizzaro... fra nozioni, sperimentazioni ed interpretazioni" (https://www.facebook.com/CnrIpcb/videos/, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GpTHMJvpV34), showed at DIDACTA 2022, final documentation of the course "Bioplastics: an ecological and sustainable choice"
  4. Paola Rizzarelli, Marco Rapisarda, Melania Leanza, Cristina Munzone. Video-story of the dissemination activity on "Bioplastics and Circular Economy", for the students of the IC Campanella Sturzo - Catania, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Le2MbmRDPmY, http://www.ipcb.ct.cnr.it/ct/Video/CampanellaSturzo20Apr2022.mp4

EDITORIAL ACTIVITY

  • From 2022 to 07/06/2023 Guest Associate Editor Special Issue: "Chemistry and the Circular Economy" Frontiers in Chemistry (Frontiers). https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/46946/chemistry-and-the-circular-economy
  • 2022-30/03/2023: Special Issue Guest Editor /Materials MDPI/ "Properties, Design and Structure of Advanced Polymers and Composite Materials" https://www.mdpi.com/journal/materials/special_issues/advanced_polymer_composite
  • 2022-up to date: Review Editor on the Editorial Board of "Green and Sustainable Chemistry" (specialty section of Frontiers in Chemistry and Frontiers in Environmental Science)
  • 2022-up to date: Review Editor on the Editorial Board of "Polymeric and Composite Materials" (specialty section of Frontiers in Materials).
  • 2022: Reviewer for the NWO Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research
  • 2019-2022: Special Issue Guest Editor "Biodegradable Polymers: From Synthesis to the Market" for Materials - MDPI https://www.mdpi.com/journal/materials/special_issues/Biodegrad_polym_synth_Market
  • 2019: Evaluator of Book proposals and chapters/Elsevier/USA
  • 2018-2021: Referee and Rapporteur for PRIN project proposals - call 2017 and call 2020, for MUR/Italy
  • 2017: Reviewer of research proposals for the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences/Kuwait
  • She is referee for ACS, Elsevier, Wiley, Springer Nature, MDPI, etc. of several international scientific journals: Macromolecules; Biomacromolecules; Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry; Biodegradation; European Polymer Journal; Polymer; Journal of Analytical and Applied Pyrolysis; Applied Spectroscopy; Macromolecular Chemistry and Physics; Materials; Packaging Technology and Science; Analytica Chimica Acta; European Journal of Inorganic Chemistry; Journal of Polymer Engineering; Polymers for Advanced Technology; Current Applied Polymer Science; Polymer Degradation and Stability; Journal of Applied Polymer Science; Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry; Polymer Testing; Journal of Environmental Pollution and Management; ACS Central Science; Journal of Biomaterials Science: Polymer Edition; Scientific Reports; International Journal of Biological Macromolecules; Nanomaterials; Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry; Polymers; Applied Sciences; Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology; Journal of microbiology, biotechnology and food sciences; Environmental Research; Journal of Renewable Materials; Molecules; Journal of Polymer and the Environment; Frontiers in Chemistry; Frontiers In Food Science and Technology

CONSULTANCY ACTIVITIES

  • Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (IBFC, CAAS) (01/01-31/12/2024)
  • Reviewer Panel of REPRISE (Register of Scientific Experts at MIUR) - PRIN Projects MIUR (2018-2021)
  • Consultant for the company COESIA S.p.A. (Bologna, Italy), a group of companies specialized in highly innovative industrial and packaging solutions (20/11/2014 - 20/05/2015 and 18/04/2016 - 18/07/2016)

MAJOR INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • 2020 - up to date Responsible for the safety of the laboratory "Degradation" in IPCB section of Catania
  • 2018 Member of the "CNR-DSCTM Young Investigator Award - 2018" Committee; Evaluator, Department of Chemical Sciences and Materials Technologies (DSCTM) of the National Research Council/Italy. Provision no. 18/2018 of the Director of the Department of Chemical Sciences and Materials Technologies of the National Research Council
  • 2017 Member of the "CNR-DSCTM Young Investigator Award - 2017" Committee; Evaluator, Department of Chemical Sciences and Materials Technologies (DSCTM) of the National Research Council/Italy. Provision no. 19/2017 of the Director of the Department of Chemical Sciences and Materials Technologies of the National Research Council
  • Full member/President of various examining commissions for awarding research grants and scholarships within research and/or training projects
  • 2009-up to date Responsible for the safety of the laboratory "Biopolymers" in IPCB section of Catania

ORGANISATION OF SCIENTIFIC MEETINGS

Catania, 2th April 2025

go to the top of the pageTop

Valid HTML5 | IPCB CT Web Site | Cookie Policy | Trasparency |