From the plastic in your water bottle to the DNA in your cells, polymers are the essential building blocks of both synthetic and natural worlds. Polymer characterisation techniques allow us to analyse properties such as crystallinity, composition, and thermal stability, which affect the performance of polymers across diverse applications. Warwick is recognised globally as a centre for excellence in polymer research and has a wealth of facilities that can address both commercial and academic challenges.

Challenges in industry

Polymer characterisation is a complex field that underpins a wide array of industries, from chemical manufacturing, waste management and construction to pharmaceuticals and healthcare. Precise data on the properties of polymers enable scientists and manufacturers to understand their materials, products and processes to improve performance and safety.

Chromatography techniques such as Gas Chromatography (GC), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), and Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) are used to separate and quantify chemical compounds. This is central to a broad range of applications, from detecting pollutants in environmental samples to characterising active ingredients in drug formulations and personal care products.

Chromatography techniques can be coupled with mass spectrometry, which measures the mass-to-charge ratio of ions, to provide detailed information on molecular weight, composition and structure.

Thermal analysis techniques such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) offer valuable insights into phase transitions, thermal stability, and decomposition temperatures. Additionally, mechanical testing techniques such as Dynamic Mechanical Analysis and Rheometry, help assess properties such as elasticity, tensile strength and flexibility, often key factors in the development of high-performance materials.

Dynamic Light Scattering and Laser Diffraction are two commonly used techniques for measuring particle sizes and distribution. They play a key role in the analysis of formulations, for example to optimise the finish of paints and coatings or ensure uniformity in cosmetics and food products.

Advanced characterisation techniques

In addition, advanced techniques are available for analysis that requires extreme precision or sensitivity.

For example, Fourier-Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometry (FTICR-MS) can achieve ultra-high resolution and high mass accuracy, enabling the characterisation of complex mixtures with closely related compounds. It is often used in applications where distinguishing very similar molecular structures is key, such as determining polymer end groups and modifications within mixtures of similar polymer structures.

Electron Diffraction (ED) can reveal the structure of micro-crystalline inclusions in polymers where X-rays are too weak to do so. Their stronger interaction with matter allows structural studies of crystals on the nanoscale, which can be mapped to properties that influence mechanical strength, durability, and chemical interactions.

Work with Warwick to help you drive innovation

Warwick’s Research Technology Platforms (RTPs) are equipped to meet diverse challenges in polymer characterisation.

Polymer Synthesis and Characterisation RTP: Our 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.

X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) RTP: This facility houses state-of-the-art powder and single-crystal x-ray diffractometers for crystalline structure analysis, as well as an electron diffractometer and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) instrument, ideal for analysing the structure of polymer blends and composite materials.

Advanced Mass Spectrometry (AMS) RTP: The AMS RTP is equipped with extensive mass spectrometry capabilities, including the highest-field FTICR-MS in the UK as well as Trapped Ion Mobility Spectrometry (TIMS). These instruments provide precise mass measurements and structural analysis of complex polymers, crucial for complex mixtures analysis and fields such as proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, pharmacology and environmental analysis.

Furthermore, the standard methodologies used by the AMS RTP allow analysis of samples on virtually any solvent system, so polymers which are insoluble in aqueous solutions are readily handled.

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Contact Us

Get in touch to discuss how we can help solve your challenges. Contact Claire Gerard, Warwick Scientific Services Manager (c.gerard@warwick.ac.uk). We look forward to collaborating with you!