New paradigms for 3D materials analysis using polyatomic projectiles: changing capacity and industrial practice

Impact: Economic, Technological

Narrative

Pioneering research at The University of Manchester (UoM) developed polyatomic ion beam systems, resulting in a paradigm shift in materials chemical analysis using secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). The introduction of a C60+ ion beam allowed for the first time 3D depth profiling of organic materials on the micrometer scale and spawned the development of second-generation polyatomic beams based on massive gas clusters. Together these ion beams have changed both practice and capacity across industrial sectors spanning manufacturing to healthcare e.g. organic electronics, battery technologies, pharmaceuticals and cancer research, leading to accelerated product development and improved quality of life. Novel analytical methodology and capabilities have enabled measurements that have never before been possible resulting in new products, economic benefits and business expansion in the coatings/materials industry and new markets for analytical service providers and instrument manufacturers worldwide.
Impact date1 Aug 2013 → 31 Jul 2020
Category of impactEconomic, Technological
Impact levelAdoption

Research Beacons, Institutes and Platforms

  • Advanced materials
  • Photon Science Institute
  • Manchester Institute of Biotechnology

Documents & Links

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