Light Responsive Pickering Emulsions
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Cambridge
Department Name: Materials Science & Metallurgy
Abstract
Area: Complex Fluids and Rheology
Project Description:
This research will set out to develop novel light responsive Pickering emulsions for use in biomimetic applications and actuator technologies. The project will explore a range of Pickering emulsion particle types, configured with a range of surface modifications. Potential surface modifications may include the use of azobenze, stilbene or spyropyran groups. Samples will be assessed for their morphological changes in response to light of different wavelengths. Characterisation will be conducted on the samples using a range of techniques including dynamic light scattering, SEM, TEM and SANS. The project will focus on an understanding of the morphological changes that occur under light irradiation and an iterative approach taken to improve stability, response time and to maximise the advantageous mechanical properties of such materials. An effort will be made to produce non-toxic, environmentally responsible materials using scalable synthesis methods in order to target this research to industrial applications.
Project Description:
This research will set out to develop novel light responsive Pickering emulsions for use in biomimetic applications and actuator technologies. The project will explore a range of Pickering emulsion particle types, configured with a range of surface modifications. Potential surface modifications may include the use of azobenze, stilbene or spyropyran groups. Samples will be assessed for their morphological changes in response to light of different wavelengths. Characterisation will be conducted on the samples using a range of techniques including dynamic light scattering, SEM, TEM and SANS. The project will focus on an understanding of the morphological changes that occur under light irradiation and an iterative approach taken to improve stability, response time and to maximise the advantageous mechanical properties of such materials. An effort will be made to produce non-toxic, environmentally responsible materials using scalable synthesis methods in order to target this research to industrial applications.
Organisations
| Description | The Scholars Programme - School Tutorials (London / Peterborough) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Outreach in schools, teaching a self-designed module based around some of the key principles of Pickering emulsion/ interfacial materials science. Tutorials consisted of 5-10 pupils and included time for discussion around progression to university and a career in research. A number of pupils showed a keen interest in the subject area and expressed an interest in progressing to highly selective universities. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2020,2021 |