Biomimetic low-friction antifouling coatings

Summary

External surfaces in plants and animals are decorated by complex nano- and micro-structures that promote multifunctionality. Such natural examples offer sources of inspiration toward biomimetic engineering of novel materials with advanced physico-chemical properties for applications ranging from photonics to biomedicine. In particular, the epicuticular wax-based coatings on plant leaves and insect bodies will be the main source of inspiration for the research during this PhD. The research will be conducted in four main areas:

(i) The project will characterise the nano/micro-scale topographies of various natural patterned surfaces. A range of analytical and advanced microscopy tools will be employed for these characterisations.
(ii) Friction reduction and antifouling performance of natural surfaces will be analysed in the vicinity of contaminated water sources and wet environments. Continuous flow and isolated impacting droplets of pure and contaminated water solutions will be investigated experimentally in this step.
(iii) Inspired by the chemical and physical composition of the analysed natural surfaces, biomimetic sustainable coatings will be fabricated. Diverse natural and purified waxes will be used in the fabrication of the coatings.
(iv) Finally, antifouling performance and mechanical/chemical durability of the manufactured coatings will be tested using the methods developed for the natural surfaces.

Findings of this project will not only enrich our limited understanding of complex natural surfaces and their functionality but advance the design and fabrication of novel sustainable functional coatings.

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.