Simulation, analysis and testing
We offer a broad range of skills and experience in materials testing, characterisation and modelling.
These contribute to and support all of the work carried out by our Advanced Materials group.
Our expertise can assist your business through:
- Materials testing and characterisation (chemical and mechanical)
- Non-standard technical investigations (forensic engineering). For example, determining the cause of failures and proposing solutions
- Understanding the performance limitations of your materials and assessing potential alternatives
- Providing materials modelling and simulation
Levno - Materials Selection
Business Challenge
Levno was using an expensive, special material to manufacture their fuel sensor which had a 6 month lead time.
What we did
We identified an alternative material which performed to the same standard, was much cheaper, and readily available.
Business outcome
The new material is being manufactured at a much larger scale and at ¼ of the price of the former material, resulting in a significantly reduced unit cost for Levno.
Heat Resistant Building Materials
Business Challenge
A building materials company wanted to make sure their insulation product complied with required standards.
What we did
We went through the appropriate standards and performed the required tests.
Business outcome
The company was able to promote their product as heat resistant giving them a competitive edge in their market and increased market share.
Materials Performance Assessment
Business Challenge
Multiple ‘spontaneous’ failures of speciality windows occurred in a new multi-storey building - why?
What we did
Identified the cause of failure and predicted the future failure rate.
Business outcome
The building owner and tenants understood the ‘take no action’ solution - saving the substantial cost of replacement glazing and avoiding business disruption.
FTIR Analysis
Business Challenge
Helping customers understand why components have failed and how to prevent future problems.
What we do
FTIR spectroscopy can determine chemical changes to materials that reduce performance. A database of spectra can be used to identify unknown materials.
Business outcome
We analysed a range of samples for commercial clients giving them answers on product failures in a range from rubber gloves, Perspex™ windows to foam insulation and coatings.
Pharmaceutical polymorphs
Business Challenge
Fast-acting pain relief is an advantage for pharmaceutical companies, and may help increase their market share.
What we did
We analysed the packing of the drug molecules with a crystal (the polymorph) and found that “fast-acting” paracetamol has a different structure from regular paracetamol.
Business outcome
We confirmed that their claims are accurate and have a deeper understanding of the effects that additives or moisture have on the release rate of pharmaceuticals.
Soft materials characterisation
Business Challenge
How to measure soft, stretchy materials without influencing the result in the process?
What we did
Used a non-contact optical technique to measure the change in shape of the soft materials as they were stretched.
Business outcome
Allowed the company to understand the strengths and weaknesses of their products.