In the Particle Engineering cluster, we lead the design of novel particulate products and sustainable manufacturing processes. We engineer innovative solutions for real-world challenges, from affordable medicines and food manufacturing to a wide range of nanostructured functional materials and cutting-edge biomedical devices. The cluster specialises in understanding the fundamental relationships between particle attributes and their behaviour throughout their journey from initial synthesis to final product performance.
We use state-of-the-art facilities, such as X-ray CT and synchrotron, to characterise and manipulate particles and multiphase materials, from powders and crystals to fibres and films. We develop and pioneer the use of process analytical technologies including a variety of optical measurements (Raman, fluorescence, photoacoustic and UV-vis-NIR spectroscopy and imaging) in this field. We also extract and fuse vital information from multiple sensor signals to track the dynamics of particle nucleation and transformation processes in situ. These data fuel intelligent decision-making and control strategies for optimal performance.
Our cross-disciplinary team combines cutting-edge experimentation with multiscale modelling using physics-based models and artificial intelligence to gain deeper insights into processes and materials. From density functional theory, molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations to phase-field modelling and computational fluid dynamics, we tackle complex multiscale and multiphase phenomena such as nucleation, interfacial growth, aggregation, flocculation and breakage of crystals, colloidal suspensions, proteins, biomaterials, soot, sediments and packings. We also leverage the increasing data availability and high-performance computing resulting from the drive towards Industry 5.0 to drive the digitalisation of the particle technology sector and the development of cyber-physical systems in this field.
The cluster works hand-in-hand with industry partners ranging global pharmaceutical companies, emerging businesses and leading technology providers to deliver innovative, integrated solutions. We are passionate about fostering collaboration and welcome inquiries from industry partners and fellow researchers!
