Nanocomposite thin films - understanding interactions at the nano-to-meso scale to enable control of material properties

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My research program is about getting understanding and insight into complex systems interfaces, nanoparticles, composites with several components so as to be able to rationally or systematically design desirable properties. The interface between two bulk phases be they solid, liquid, or gas serves not just to separate them, but also determines interaction and transport between them. Surfaces are ubiquitous, and a microscopic-to-molecular level understanding of processes that occur in them is key to many chemical and biological systems. Unfortunately, they are too complex for a full theoretical model. However, complexity means there is opportunity for the creation of many different types of morphology and, hence, properties. The question is how to address this systematically and reproducibly. ******In the next five years, our research goal is to control nanostructured thin films to address two target applications. The first application is with regards to the environment: coatings with embedded photocatalysts for the breakdown of organics in water, or NOx in air. The second application is in infection control: coatings with a control on how they interact with micron-scale particles. The eventual goal is targeting bacteria, whether to repel, attract or kill them. ******In both instances, we will investigate how to: (1) make nanoparticles with optimized desired properties; (2) incorporate them into nanostructured thin films or coatings that have desirable attributes; (3) test the materials, and optimize by iteration. Preliminary studies on the target applications will be conducted, but detailed investigations will have to await funding from relevant partners in specific areas. This proposal is thus about the fundamental issues underpinning the applications, but because we are interested in eventual applications, it imposes extra constraints on the research approach. Hence, we will carry out studies using materials and processes that are cost effective, environmentally-friendly and scalable.