Multidisciplinary Research Equipment Investment: Coherence Scanning Interferometer (CSI) and Vector Network Analyser (VNA)

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The University of Huddersfield will use this award to fund the acquisition of two key pieces of technical laboratory equipment, whose use and application cover a broad range of research areas spanning novel functional materials to advanced metrology. The equipment will be used to support a broad range of researchers and disciplines, as well as help ensure high utilisation rates. The applicants seek to purchase an advanced Coherence Scanning Interferometer (CSI) surface metrology system to assess the arrangement and distribution of surface features (topography) of materials down to the nano-scale, and so is an essential tool for the understanding of nano-functional surfaces which are the underpinning materials of numerous new technologies ranging from medical diagnostics to solar power. The CSI instrumentation acquisition will be critical to formulate a unique metrology-orientated ultra-precision structured and freeform surface manufacturing capability. The core equipment will facilitate scientific and innovative research in the area of freeform and micro/nano-structured surface measurement of novel coatings and thin films. The outcomes from this acquisition will include the provision of enabling techniques for functionalised bio implants next generation novel optics, new functional surfaces, and facilitation of the development of ISO standards for next generation of functional geometrical products. The second instrument is a Vector Network Analyser (VNA) to support researchers working in the areas of; materials characterisation, measurement and sensing, metamaterials and integrative technologies to deliver research against key identified EPSRC Priority Research areas such as materials characterisation, functional materials, measurement and sensing, photonic materials, metamaterials and plasmonics, integrative technologies (from mobile technologies to radar technologies) and ICT for manufacturing. Understanding the electromagnetic properties of materials are essential for developing the next generation of materials for devices such as antennas, passive and active components (both linear and non-linear) and high-speed serial interconnects.Both instruments will be used as a platform to develop interdisciplinary collaborative research across faculties at the University of Huddersfield and with external collaborators and to support established researchers as well as early career researchers and research students.