Capital award for core equipment 2019
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Bristol
Department Name: Research and Enterprise Development
Abstract
The University of Bristol (UoB) has chosen to support investments in equipment which supports research across EPSRC's remit in the Engineering and Science Faculties. It will underpin programs incorporating >200 researchers, ~£50M of EPSRC investment and addressing key strategic priorities in University research programs.
A high intensity dual microfocus source single crystal X-ray diffractometer will enable crucial access to both Cu and Mo radiation. Its enhanced capabilities offer higher quality data, with faster turnaround to routinely enable experiments that are not possible within the capacity and capabilities of existing hardware such as those requiring multiple datasets or to study dynamic processes e.g. gas adsorption, liquid crystallation, phase transitions and solid-state phenomena such as spin crossover.
A suite of testing and imaging equipment will enhance the characterisation of materials and structures under high rate loading, by enabling the integration of thermal response with strain measurement in a data rich imaging method. The equipment safeguards long-term fundamental research by providing a focal point to better understand structural response of components, particularly those manufactured from new materials, boosting innovation and development of products on the leading edge of competitiveness.
A high intensity dual microfocus source single crystal X-ray diffractometer will enable crucial access to both Cu and Mo radiation. Its enhanced capabilities offer higher quality data, with faster turnaround to routinely enable experiments that are not possible within the capacity and capabilities of existing hardware such as those requiring multiple datasets or to study dynamic processes e.g. gas adsorption, liquid crystallation, phase transitions and solid-state phenomena such as spin crossover.
A suite of testing and imaging equipment will enhance the characterisation of materials and structures under high rate loading, by enabling the integration of thermal response with strain measurement in a data rich imaging method. The equipment safeguards long-term fundamental research by providing a focal point to better understand structural response of components, particularly those manufactured from new materials, boosting innovation and development of products on the leading edge of competitiveness.
Planned Impact
The equipment itself will not directly generate Impact, however the new science enabled by it will. The University of Bristol has an excellent track record in creating Impactful research, and this will only be enhanced by the capabilities provided by the new equipment. Housing the equipment within openly accessible, staff-supported research Facilities will ensure that UoB academics can attract leading new industry partners in addition to enhancing the programs already being conducted with numerous major UK and international automotive and aeronautical engineering, pharmaceuticals and agrochemical companies (Syngenta, AstraZeneca, Novo Nordisk, Rolls Royce, Airbus, GKN, DSTL, BAE Systems etc). Working on world-leading scientific programs with these companies leads directly to outcomes of benefit to UK GDP and broader society, for example through the development of more fuel-efficient and sustainable products, next generation medical treatments, transport solutions and energy-conversion materials.