Materials chemistry
Materials chemistry is a vibrant area of research at the OU. We have an extensive track record in working synergistically with both industrial and academic partners.
Key themes of our research include:
- Catalysis research, focusing on the synthesis and characterisation of bimetallic catalysts for fuel cells and catalytic converters. We also have interests in characterising porous materials and surfaces.
- Condensed matter theory
- Green chemistry and resource efficiency research, focusing on recovery of high value chemicals from waste and biomass.
- Nanomaterials and nanocomposites, focusing on novel materials and their uses
- Organosilicon research, focusing on new materials and coatings based on silsesquioxanes, biomimetic organosilicon chemistry, the development of novel HPLC phases and the mechanism of substitution at silicon.
- Polymer processing and structure development research, focusing on understanding and predicting the effects of molecular variables during polymer processing.
- Supramolecular chemistry research, focusing on luminescent sensors and probes, and photoactive molecular devices.
Qualifications available
PhD or MPhil
Fees
For detailed information on current fees visit Research degree fees.
Entry requirements
Minimum 2:1 (or equivalent)
Potential research projects
- Molecular imprinted polymers for clean-up of biological samples
- Electrospinning of biomimetic nanofibers
Current/recent research projects
- Production of novel HPLC phases
- Characterisation of a novel silsesquioxane fabrication
- Biocatalysis at silicon
- Development and analysis of recognition polymers
- Lanthanide complexes as incorporated luminescent detectors
- Understanding and improving reactivity of low platinum group metal three-way catalysts
- Supported catalysts for the recovery of valuable chemicals from wastes
Potential supervisors
Links