Navigating the Unique Formulation Requirements of Biosurfactants

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Course Description

This seminar addresses the technical facets of hair conditioner formulations using glycolipids. A variety of interaction parameters are involved in hair conditioner deposition mechanisms. These interactions and their resulting physicochemical properties will be discussed, along with the techniques for measuring them to optimize the functionality of a hair conditioner formulated with a biosurfactant. 

Meet the Instructor

Arjan Gelissen is an expert in the field of physical chemistry, currently holding a position at Sasol Germany GmbH, based in Marl, Germany. He holds a PhD in Chemistry and a Master’s degree in the same field, both earned from RWTH Aachen University in Germany. 

Dr. Gelissen’s academic journey has taken him across borders, enriching his experience and broadening his expertise. As part of his Master’s program at RWTH Aachen University, he had the opportunity to contribute to the research on polyelectrolyte complexes as an exchange student at Lomonossow Moscow State University in Russia. Later in his career, during his PhD, he expanded his knowledge in the field of physical chemistry as a guest scientist at the Georgia Institute of Technology in the United States. 

His extensive work in research and development has led to a variety of publications in various peer-reviewed journals, establishing his reputation in the field. 

In his role at Sasol, Dr. Gelissen has made significant contributions to the study of (bio-)surfactants, leading a technical team in Sasol’s Research and Development department. His team is tasked with the independent investigation of (bio-)surfactant, emulsifier, and dispersant properties, aiming to connect physical chemical properties to product functionality. Dr. Gelissen’s work at Sasol is marked by the development of software routines for analyzing measurements, which facilitates intelligent pre-selection of materials for formulation development, thereby preventing lengthy and expensive lab testing with unsuitable products. 

His professional interests include rheology, scattering experiments, interfacial tension measurements, and imaging techniques. He also serves as a reviewer for peer-reviewed journals such as “Soft Matter” and “Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science,” further showcasing his dedication to his field of expertise.