Brief Summary of Research Interests in Particle Technology
The group that was led by Stuart Blackburn (Professor in Solids Processing) had interests in the flow of pastes but also widened the original IRC programmes to include more component and formulation orientated projects. More emphasis was placed on the development of structured and functional materials and products.
Of the PhD students and Research Fellows that have been completed recently, many work on industrial projects, including refractories, foods, aerospace and the government office for technology transfer. Some have remained in academia to become lecturers. The most successful technology transfer has been with Rolls-Royce plc where the group has had a continuous relationship for over 20 years.
Outputs
Of the PhD's and RF’s that have been completed recently, many work in related industries, including refractories, foods, aerospace and the government office for technology transfer. Some have remained in academia to become lecturers. The most successful technology transfer has been with Rolls-Royce plc where the group has had a continuous relationship for over 10 years.
Interdisciplinary Research Centre (IRC) in Materials Processing
Professor Blackburn’s research work and group was affiliated to the IRC which is one of the UK’s leading laboratories in the processing of advanced materials. The research activity aimed to develop metallic alloys, ceramic and polymeric formulations to enable the manufacture of advanced components. These materials were designed with specific processes in mind so that the desired microstructure as well as macrostructure were developed to give specific mechanical properties and functionality. We aimed to:
• Use a design driven approach to develop new materials, processing and manufacturing technologies
• Transfer the results to industry, either through dedicated research programmes or through the training of researchers
The equipment base is extensive and often on a pilot scale.