Optical tweezers as a micro-rheological probe of soft surfaces. Biomembranes are more than soft containers - their dynamic flexibility plays an important role in cell function, but measurements of mechanical properties of soft surfaces are non-existent. This project develops and applies a new optical tweezers method to measure the flexibility of membranes and its effects upon the friction of nearby particles.
Tuning adhesion through polymer chain entanglement. Adhesion in materials relies on the ability to tune molecular scale interactions. This project unlocks knowledge to transfer to industry for the intelligent use of polymer additives at a surface. Outcomes will connect fields including ceramic and minerals processing, waste water treatment and for printing and coatings.