Dr. Ian Gent

I am currently involved in a multi-university research project to deliver a step-change in the production of polymer-matrix composite materials. As part of this project, the research at Bristol concerns improving the manufacturability of multifunctional composite materials. Addressing specifically the transport phenomena of heat & electrical conduction. My research concerns the use of multi-material braids and liquid resin injections to improve in-plane and through thickness conductivity.

My PhD project aimed to develop a new biologically inspired polychromatic smart material for integration of colour-changing materials, producing colour through structural arrangement, within a military setting. Experimental characterisation, in uniaxial and radial strain was conducted and a lab scale demonstrator fabricated. This proof of concept demonstrated the potential for adaptive colour within shape changing composite materials.

Industrial placement year in the Research and Technology group at Cytec. My main role involved the development of a thermoset resin system from blending formulations through thermo-mechanical characterisation to fracture toughness testing.

Composite Design and Manufacture, Nature's Materials, Research Development, Smart Materials & Nanomaterials

Composites, Polymer Chemistry, Inorganic Materials, Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry