Chemical reactions are often slow and depend on catalysts. This research shows that simply applying electrical charge to a catalyst—without using energy—dramatically accelerates reactions, increasing rates tenfold for every 60 mV. A AA battery can reduce a universe-long reaction to one second, offering a powerful, sustainable route for chemical manufacturing.

This research uses neutron scattering — “neutron vision” — to reveal the full structure of complex nanoparticles that X-rays can’t fully resolve. By developing statistical methods to optimise experiment design and analyse data, the project enables clearer structural insights, accelerating the development of advanced materials for energy, medicine and nanotechnology.

This talk explains magnetic refrigeration, a sustainable cooling technology that uses magnetocaloric materials to generate heating and cooling through controlled changes in magnetic and lattice entropy. The research focuses on tuning Curie temperatures—especially via cobalt substitution—and understanding first- vs second-order transitions to design efficient, environmentally friendly refrigeration materials.

This research investigates how turbine disc cracks grow under real engine conditions. By replicating extreme temperatures and loading cycles, including the high forces at take-off, the findings reveal a counter-intuitive effect: take-off loads actually slow crack growth by preventing oxide formation. This improves lifetime predictions, increases safety, and reduces operational costs.

This research uses a scanning tunneling microscope to visualize and measure individual atoms using quantum tunneling. By mapping surfaces atom-by-atom and probing electronic properties, it advances technologies such as nanowires, superconductors, and atomic-scale chips. Understanding materials at the quantum level enables better design of devices that impact energy, computing, and sustainability.

This research uses atomic-scale computer simulations to design safer, more efficient battery electrolytes. By modelling ion movement like a “river” inside a battery, the project identifies top-performing materials before laboratory testing. The goal is to create faster-charging, higher-capacity, non-toxic batteries that support global renewable-energy transitions and a net-zero future.