Complex Materials (CM)

Our research aims to understand the behaviour of complex materials from a fundamental knowledge of the way in which interactions between molecules and larger structures influence the organisation and dynamics of bulk assemblies of materials. By understanding the microscopic behaviour of a material we aim to be able to predict its macroscopic response. The microstructure can then be adjusted to optimise this response for a particular technological process or product application.

Above: Prof. Sergei Kazarian describes his award winning research into developing new chemical analysis techniques

We study a wide range of materials including polymers, colloids, powders, pastes, agglomerates, composites, foods, pharmaceuticals, biomaterials, thin liquid films, surfactants and supercritical fluids. We apply a combination of advanced analytical and computational modelling methods with physical characterisation techniques including atomic force microscopy, vibrational spectroscopy, spectroscopic imaging, inverse chromatography, light and neutron scattering, and rheometry.

We are interested in thermodynamics and (in)stability of complex mixtures, often containing multiple components, particles, surfactants, compatibilisers, gelators, etc. In order to elucidate such complex systems, we develop novel experimental techniques, including combinatorial and high throughput approaches and microfluidics. These studies are important at the fundamental level, to understand structure and stability of these fascinating mixtures, but also necessary for numerous everyday applications, ranging from shampoos and mayonnaise to nanocomposites.

Research is also focused on the applications of novel spectroscopic imaging methods to study controlled drug release and dynamic processes in polymers. A broader aim is to facilitate the use of spectroscopic imaging technology for preparation of solid dispersions by revealing the underlying principles of polymer/solvent interactions and its relevance to controlled drug release processes. Applications of these advanced spectroscopic methods are also explored for the characterisation of interfacial phenomena in biomedical materials and high-throughput analysis of pharmaceutical formulations.

Prof Sergei Kazarian
Programme Co-ordinator