The X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) machine, housed in the Physics Department, is seen as a key item for the University’s Materials Science Institute (MSI).

High-energy resolution XPS technique is the most versatile technique currently known for providing information on functional surfaces and tailored interfaces.

“What this actually means is that the machine is able to measure the elemental composition within a material’s surface at the nanoscale, or at only a few atomic layers, along with the provision of information about the chemical and electronic state of those elements,” says MSI Director Professor Rob Short, who has overseen the acquisition of the XPS machine.

Information provided by the XPS is crucial to understanding the surfaces of a material being researched. Being able to know surface layer thickness or binding energy means it is more possible to figure out applications for the materials or if alterations might be necessary to achieve a desired aim.

“By having such a specialised state-of-the-art instrument here in Lancaster we are able to support on-going research projects into 2D materials, energy devices, biomedical devices, biomaterials including Anti-Microbial Resistant (AMR) materials, functional materials and sensors to name but a few,” adds Professor Short.

“It also has the capability to be used in advanced engineering and manufacturing where it can test the bonding of dissimilar materials.”

XPS machines have been used, for example, in previous research by the MSI, in determining a new coating technique for alloys used in electrical devices.

The XPS means Lancaster University is able to engage in new research areas; enabling them to get involved with key research challenges, growth areas, and new working relationships with other institutes and industry.

It is also one of the biggest single investments in an individual piece of equipment the university has made and is seen as a great investment into the MSI and interdisciplinary research.

The MSI at Lancaster University involves more than 200 academic and research staff who are involved in interdisciplinary research, development, commercialisation and education of new materials science