Qualifications

BSc(Hons)

PhD

CChem

FRSC

Research Group(s)

• Energy and Environment
• Materials Chemistry
• Polymerization
• Material Synthesis
• Materials Characterization
• Organic materials and polymers
• Nanoporous materials
• Graphene
• Membranes
• Climate change
• Energy efficient processes
• Nanotechnology
• Molecular separations

Peter Budd obtained his first degree (chemistry, 1978) and PhD (1981) from the University of Manchester. He spent 8 years as a research chemist at the BP Research Centre, Sunbury-on-Thames, working on polymers and structural materials, returning to Manchester in 1989 as a lecturer. He is now a Professor of Polymer Chemistry.

We carry out fundamental research on polymers and their interactions with small molecules. We are developing novel materials and energy-efficient processes for molecular separations and transformations.

POLYMERS OF INTRINSIC MICROPOROSITY (PIMs): In Manchester, we have invented a novel range of polymers, which behave like molecular sieves because of their rigid, contorted macromolecular structures. PIMs include both insoluble networks and soluble polymers that can be processed into membranes or other useful forms. They can be designed with built-in catalytic groups or other functionalities, so they can function as self-supported catalysts or highly selective adsorbents.

MEMBRANES: Thin films, which possess the ability to discriminate between and selectively transport molecules, have considerable potential for use in industrial processes and as components of sensors and other devices. Membranes formed from PIMs show exceptional potential for gas and liquid separations. We are also developing graphene-based membranes for a variety of applications.

MATERIALS FOR ENERGY APPLICATIONS: A major challenge is to ensure a clean and sustainable energy future. We are developing materials for carbon capture, in order to help tackle the problem of global warming. We are exploring novel polymer electrolytes for fuel cells and are carrying out research on novel materials for hydrogen storage.

POLYELECTROLYTES: Polyelectrolytes are polymers that posess many ionizable group. In collaboration with the Schools of Materials and Dentistry, we are investigating novel polyelectrolytes for application in tissue engineering.

For more information, see the Budd group website

KEYWORDS: Polymers, polyelectrolytes, polymer electrolytes, microporous materials, graphene, membranes, adsorption, gas separation, pervaporation, nanofiltration, carbon capture, hydrogen storage, tissue engineering, physical chemistry