Warwick is recognised globally as a centre of excellence for polymer research. Warwick Scientific Services (WSS) provides a route for industry and other universities to access our state-of-the-art Polymer Characterisation Research Technology Platform (RTP) and the expertise available for polymer synthesis.

Over the past 10 years we have been pleased to partner with Agilent, one of the largest scientific instrument manufacturers in the world, to provide their customers with in-depth training on their Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) systems.

GPC separates and identifies molecules based on their size in solution. It is central to a broad range of applications across industries, from pharmaceuticals to identifying contaminants in environmental samples and characterising active ingredients in personal care products. Agilent has drawn on the expertise of Dr. Dan Lester, facility manager of the Polymer RTP, to demonstrate GPC instruments in action and provide bespoke hands-on training.

Warwick’s Polymer RTP houses a world-class GPC suite with nine different instruments. We are one of the few institutions in the UK to have a high temperature GPC and Dr Lester has worked closely with Agilent to bring it to its full potential. High temperature GPC is needed for analysing polyethylene and polypropylene, the most widely used consumer plastics globally.

We also run two dedicated aqueous GPC systems, and have worked with Agilent to develop analysis methods for numerous water-soluble polymers.

Dr. Raj Bhardwaj, GPC Product Specialist at Agilent Technologies Ltd, said:

“As one of the largest instrument manufacturers in the world, Agilent frequently collaborates with key universities to meet our customer demands. One of our most significant partnerships has been with the University of Warwick, particularly with Dr. Dan Lester and the Polymer RTP. This collaboration has been instrumental in our success and growth.

Our partnership with the University of Warwick has allowed us to leverage their expertise and facilities to showcase our instruments. Dr. Lester’s contributions to this partnership have been exceptional. He has consistently provided high-quality training and support, helping us maintain high standards of customer service. His efforts have not only benefited our customers but have also enhanced the international reputations of both Agilent and the University of Warwick.”

About the Polymer Characterisation RTP

Warwick’s world-class polymer facility features an extensive range of equipment across five labs, housing numerous high-end standard and specialised instruments. Capabilities include thermal and mechanical analysis, particle sizing, chromatography and formulation analysis, as well as bespoke synthesis.

To find out more, visit the Polymer RTP website or contact Claire Gerard ( ), Warwick Scientific Services Manager.