Interface Analysis Centre, University of Bristol

The Interface Analysis Centre (IAC) is a research centre with very strong links towards industry. It is fully equipped with a multi-million pound range of surface and other analytical instruments, maintained by highly skilled and dedicated staff. Its researchers have many years of experience and are knowledgeable in the theoretical and experimental aspects of materials science, systems and processes, from the nanoscale upwards.

In addition to participation in independent and collaborative research projects, in particular targeting the fields of energy, engineering and the environment, its researchers also act as consultants to various industries home and abroad.

The major techniques used by the IAC’s staff and students include:

• Auger electron spectroscopy
• Electron backscattered diffraction
• Focussed ion beam
• Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopy
• Environmental and conventional scanning electron microscopy
• Secondary ion mass spectrometry
• Transmission electron microscopy
• X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

And these have been applied in recent years to such diverse fields as:

• Metals: oxidation, corrosion and fracture studies
• Composite materials and conducting polymers
• Surface analysis of biomaterials
• Characterisation of surface coatings
• Development of instruments and control software for general surface science application
• Microstructure, mechanical and physiochemical behaviour of limes and cements
• Atmospheric corrosion of building materials
• Remediation of heavy-metal contaminated environments
• Characterisation of environmental particles

For more information visit the IAC website.