Abstract

Prof Windle will present an update on his exciting nanotechnology research, which is focused on the creation and exploitation of carbon nanostructures in materials science. In addition, as Director of the Pfizer Institute for Pharmaceutical Materials Science, he has overall responsibility for a wide range of pharmaceutically related materials projects.

In many ways single-wall carbon nanotubes can be seen as the ultimately rigid polymer molecule, and this perspective has stimulated new routes for processing. Current research centres on a process by which carbon nanotubes form an aerogel in the reactor zone, and are then wound out as a continuous fibre. The properties of these fibres show huge promise as a cheaper and better replacement for carbon fibre. The science ranges from reactor thermodynamics and kinetics through issues of orientation and condensation of aerogels to an understanding of the physics of the exceptional properties of the fibre. In addition to their mechanical potential, several projects address the electrical properties of nanotubes, including interaction with electromagnetic radiation, for applications as diverse as power transmission, electromagnetic shielding and cancer therapies.

Free admission. Open to all. Suitable for A level students. No tickets – so come early to get a good seat. Doors open at 18:30.

Event organised by The Society of Chemical Industry & Royal Society of Chemistry.