Surface and Interface Science

Measurement Science Group has many years experience in studying the physical properties of surface and interfaces, and in investigating the interactions between the surfaces and media that may be applied to them.

One of the primary areas of interest is adhesion science, where we have developed a complementary package of techniques, including mechanical tests such as peel-strength determination, subsequent chemical analysis of the interfaces and the use of optical and electron microscopy techniques allied with image analysis to analyse the homogeneity of the failure surface.

As well as its use in gaining an understanding of fundamental properties of laminates and composite materials, plane of failure analysis can be crucial in the Technical Service arena, where it has a track record of finding the culprit in cases of coating defects, delamination, pinholing and other contamination issues.

Other areas of expertise include proprietary methods for the analysis of scratch resistance of surfaces and coatings and methods for the measurement and analysis of friction and wear of lubricated surfaces.