Case Studies

To analyse and assess ocean colour requires satellite measurements sensitive enough to distinguish small changes in the little light reflected by the ocean from the brighter background light reflected by the atmosphere. Radiometers, the instruments that measure ocean colour, are calibrated pre-launch, but due to demanding accur...

Introducing innovative products such as novel optoelectronics based on quantum dots, nanowires and nanorods or wear resistant coating using new nanostructures relies on having confidence in how these materials behave at the nano-scale. Understanding the strength of materials at the nano-scale as opposed to in bulk is essential...

Piezoelectric materials, which convert movement into electrical signals and vice versa, are used in a wide range of applications such as gyro-sensors, and micro switches in miniaturised electronic devices. In addition, their unique characteristics make them suitable for sensing operations where continuous remote monitoring of r...

Power plant operators must reliably monitor structural integrity to ensure safety. For example, high pressure, high temperature steam can degrade and corrode the pipes that carry it. If these crack during operation, the damage and lost power generation from unscheduled shutdowns can cost millions of Euros. Networks of sensors ...

Understanding how fluids move around pipes is vital for improving efficiency and safety – whether in manufacturing processes or in the transport of commodities such as oil and gas. But fluid flow in pipes is variable which makes measuring it hard. Better models are needed to understand how bends in pipes influence fluid flow, s...

Electricity meters measure how much energy consumers use so they can be accurately billed. If they measure incorrectly it is bad news for the consumer; either they are charged more individually, or they are undercharged leading energy companies to raise prices. Smart meters are being manufactured in large batches and introduced...