Nanomaterials

Nanomaterials have dimensions of less than 100 nanometres and their small size can often produce unique properties. Our research encompasses nanotechnology, nanoscience and nanoscale characterisation. The scope of our investigations is broad; it extends from electrochemical energy conversion, catalysis, nanoelectronics and bioengineering to molecular recognition and self-assembly of nanostructures and devices.

We fabricate, test and characterise nanomaterials using state-of-the-art facilities at South Kensington and White City. 

• We fabricate nanomaterials using a combination of bottom-up chemical methods such as electrodeposition and atomic layer deposition; and top-down methods such as a magnetron nanoparticle source, sputter deposition, chemical vapour deposition, and pulsed laser deposition.
  
  
• We exploit the functionality of nanomaterials in a wide range of components and devices, from the implants in the human body to the electrodes of batteries, fuel cells, electrolysers and supercapacitors. 
  
  
• We characterise nanomaterials using state-of-the-art techniques, including photoelectron spectroscopy to probe electronic structure, chemical state and composition of materials, both under vacuum and at ambient pressures; synchrotron-based X-ray methods to monitor the interaction of materials with aggressive chemical environments, from oil pipelines to electrochemical energy conversion devices; transmission electron microscopy to probe composition and structure at the nanometre scale.

We also work closely with The London Centre for Nanotechnology, a joint venture between University College London, Imperial College London and Kings College London, as well as working extensively with companies including Johnson Matthey, ROLI, EnviroWales and Shell.