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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

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

This project is being undertaken in collaboration with the University of Bristol and Institut Polytechnique de Bordeaux for ENSEIRB-MATMECA to develop a new concept of a 'mechanical metamaterial' combining two unusual properties: negative Poisson's ratio (NPR - the material becomes fatter when pulled) and negative stiffness (NS - the material becomes shorter when pulled).

This project is working with a team of surgeons and an NHS business development manager to devise novel mechanical expansion mechanisms for an innovative new device – the LaparOsphereTM - for space creation and organ retraction in laparoscopic surgery.

This project is focussed on developing new and improved impact protection materials and is part of a wider collaboration with the Centre for Sports Engineering Research and also Manchester Metropolitan University. A process to produce large area or volume isotropic, anisotropic and gradient one-piece auxetic foams is being developed, foams produced and characterised for their mechanical and impact response properties. Significant reductions in peak acceleration are being found for the auxetic foams relative to their conventional counterparts.

The Analysis of polymers, minerals and organic-inorganic complexes at MERI, Sheffield Hallam University.