Ana Isabel Ares Pernas

Ana Isabel Ares Pernas is a Professor in the Department of Physics and Earth Sciences at the Universidade da Coruña (UDC), affiliated with the University College of Industrial Design. She is a key member of the Grupo de Polímeros, where her research focuses on sustainable polymer technologies, including biopolymers, recycling, rheology, nanocomposites, and 3D printing materials.

• Universidade da Coruña (UDC)
• University College of Industrial Design
• Department of Physics and Earth Sciences
• Research Group: Grupo de Polímeros

Her research interests span polymer science and engineering with a strong emphasis on sustainability. Key areas include:

• Biopolymers and polymer recycling for environmental sustainability
• Rheology and processing of polymeric materials
• Nanocomposites and hybrid polymers
• Mechanical fracture of polymers
• Design of active polymers for food packaging
• Conductive polymers and their applications
• Polymers for 3D printing and energy applications

Her recent publications (2021–2025) reflect a strong trend in sustainable polymer composites, particularly in electromagnetic shielding, thermoelectric generation, and eco-design. Many studies focus on recycled or biobased matrices enhanced with conductive fillers, aligning with circular economy goals. The work integrates advanced characterization techniques and industrial applications.

She has been involved in numerous research projects funded by:

• Axencia Galega de Innovación
• European Commission (Horizon 2020)
• AEI (Agencia Estatal de Investigación)
• TETRA PAK IBERIA
• NAVANTIA
• Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación

Ana Isabel Ares Pernas actively supervises master's theses and final-year engineering projects, particularly in additive manufacturing, textile technology, and industrial design. She teaches courses such as Design and Processing with Polymers, Ecotextiles and Ecodesign, and Polymers in Sustainable Energy Development. Her collaborative work is extensive, often co-authored with María José Abad López and other UDC researchers.

She leads or co-leads R&D projects in polymer sustainability and participates in innovation networks with industrial partners. Her lab work is closely tied to real-world applications in packaging, energy, and manufacturing.