ResearchWe study the measurement of the physical and chemical properties of surfaces down to the nanoscale, from biological samples to electronic components.
The chemistry at surfaces and interfaces is critical to many innovations such as drug delivery systems, diagnostic devices, medical devices, organic semiconductors and personal care products. We are developing novel methods to characterise these complex systems using cluster ion beams and atmospheric mass spectrometries, as well as advanced data simplification and interpretation methods.- At NPL, a wide range of scanning probe microscopy techniques are available, including nanomechanical analysis, force spectroscopy, optical spectroscopy and electrochemical analysis. This allows us to study complex systems ranging from the chemical/structural analysis of soft surfaces and bio-nano systems, to nanoparticles and their interaction with surfaces.
NPL's biosurfaces area covers the surface chemical and physical analysis of materials designed to interface with biological systems. Such measurements impact and underpin the development of medical and diagnostic devices.
Materials with nanometre-scale size are increasingly utilised in technology and consumer product development due to their unique properties. In the Nanoanalysis group we are developing a wide range of methodologies for the correct handling and characterisation of such nanomaterials.
As a national measurement institute (NMI), the development of international standards for organisations such as International Standards Organisation (ISO) is an essential component of our work. Standards and traceability are important to ensure that measurements are comparable between laboratories, that data are defendable and meet accreditation standards required in industry.
