Optimizing Adhesion to Metal (inks, lacquers, structural adhesives...)

Dr. Critchlow has worked for Loughborough University since January 1987, where he is currently a Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Materials. Dr. Critchlow has, for many years, had an interest in applied surface science to enhance the functional properties of materials. Initial collaborations were based on the characterization and optimization of tribological hard coatings and the deposition of thin films for semiconductor, optoelectronic, and sensor applications from the metal-organic chemical vapor deposition route.

However, the majority of studies have been concerned with the use of advanced analytical techniques in understanding the performance of metal bonding systems, such as structural joints in aerospace or defense applications or advanced coatings. Crucial to the performance of such is their ability to resist environmental factors such as corrosion caused by moisture ingress. Helping to develop an understanding of the role of corrosion processes and the influence of the interphasial polymer on the failure of structural and non-structural bonds is the focus of a number of studies. He has developed a number of pretreatment processes for the structural bonding of aluminum and steels, which are the subject of a number of patents.

Dr. Critchlow was awarded the Royal Society of Chemistry’s “Corrosion Science Award” in 2004, and he is currently Chairman of the Society for Adhesion and Adhesives (UKSAA).