ICI Measurement Science Group (MSG) has strengthened its ability to characterise nanocomposites and nanoparticulate materials
In the area of particle size measurement, ICI Measurement Science Group (MSG) has purchased a new Sympatec NanoFox photon cross-correlation spectroscopy (PCCS) instrument, which enables it to measure size distributions down to a few nanometres.
This new apparatus complements its existing light-scattering and image analysis methods for particle size analysis.
Additionally, in the area of materials processing it has invested in an Engel injection moulding machine, to which it will, over the course of time, add a range of instrumentation.
This equipment will allow its customers to explore the relationship between particle concentration, processing conditions and final physical properties in nano-filled composites.
This new equipment is helping MSG to play an important role in a new national initiative to promote the commercialisation of nanomaterials.
It is a core provider in the NanoCentral network, funded by the DTI as part of its Micro and Nano Technology (MNT) programme.
MSG has a long history in the characterisation of materials at the nanometre scale - for example developing novel methods for the analysis of catalyst heterogeneity by transmission electron microscopy - and NanoCentral will facilitate access to this capability, and to its experience in the formulation of structure-property relationships in composite materials.
