The degradation of polymers by UV, heat, moisture or γ-irradiation is of significant importance in many different spheres of life

There are a large number of commercially available additives that enable polymers to perform important functions over a wide range of conditions

We have developed a novel pNIPAM-DMAc-Laponite® hydrogel loaded with hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HAPna), which can be maintained as a liquid ex vivo and be injected into the affected bone tissue site where body temperature triggers in situ gelation

We have extensive experience of incorporating clays into a range of petroleum derived polymers including polypropylene, polyamide, polyacrylates, polycaprolactone, polyvinylalcohol as well as biopolymers including starch, polylactic acid, chitosan and gelatin

In collaboration with Prof Chris Breen and colleagues, we have been using molecular-resolution simulations of clay galleries to investigate detailed structural behaviours that underpin coating treatments used for food packaging applications.

The competitive movement of small molecules through polymers, membranes and constitutes an important phenomenon in many applications

By applying our experience and expertise in polymer analysis, we are able to obtain useful insights into polymer behaviour and suggest solutions to material or processing challenges

The Energy Saving Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) is a mandatory energy assessment scheme for large organisations in the UK.

We can perform elemental analysis on a wide range of materials by using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF). We have a state-of-the-art X-ray Fluorescence spectrometer that can provide manufacturers with detailed information on the composition of solids, powders and liquids.

The interests of the Polymers, Composites and Spectroscopy Group (PCAS) encompass polymers, minerals and composites