Synthesis facilities
Our state-of-the-art synthesis facilities provide us with the capability to fabricate a broad array of advanced materials. Hydrothermal synthesis allows us to create crystalline structures under high temperature and pressure conditions, often leading to the generation of novel materials with unique properties. Our mechanochemical synthesis set-up enables solid-state reactions to be triggered through mechanical force, bypassing the need for solvents and reducing environmental impact. The wet synthesis facility offers us a versatile platform for creating materials through chemical reactions in solution, facilitating the synthesis of a variety of functional materials. Finally, our pyrolysis setup allows us to thermally decompose materials in an inert atmosphere, which is essential for the creation of materials such as carbon-based nanomaterials and ceramics. Together, these facilities give us the flexibility to design and create a wide spectrum of materials for various applications.
Gas sorption analysis for surface area characterisation of porosity (3-Flex)
This cutting-edge analytical technique allows us to gain precise insights into the surface properties of a wide range of materials, especially porous structures. By adsorbing gas molecules onto the surface of the material, we can accurately measure its surface area and characterise the intricacies of its porous nature. This analysis is crucial in the design and evaluation of materials like metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and zeolites, which are instrumental in various applications such as gas storage, catalysis, and environmental remediation. Our commitment to robust, detailed analysis ensures that we continue to advance our understanding and development of high-performance materials for a sustainable future.
High pressure gravimetric gas sorption analysis (XEMIS)
XEMIS equipment provides a robust, high-fidelity platform for high-pressure gravimetric gas sorption analysis, facilitating innovative research and breakthroughs in diverse scientific domains. Capable of operating at pressures up to 200 bar, XEMIS uses a precision-engineered magnetic suspension balance. This balance meticulously records the changes in a sample's mass in relation to applied pressure, providing insightful data about sorption isotherms and kinetics. The information generated allows scientists to dive deep into various research areas, including gas storage (with particular emphasis on hydrogen and carbon dioxide), gas sorption for advanced separation processes, chemisorption studies, and the exploration of gas solubility in ionic liquids.
Neutron scattering
Neutron scattering provides information about hydrogen's position, motion, and interaction with the surrounding environment, thereby playing an instrumental role in advancing our understanding of hydrogen-based energy storage systems. As hydrogen atoms possess similar neutron scattering lengths to many other elements, they can be precisely probed and visualised within host materials. This becomes especially relevant when exploring materials like metal-organic frameworks or other porous substances, where the understanding of hydrogen confinement and diffusion is crucial for the development of efficient hydrogen storage solutions.
