Particulate Fluids Processing CentreA Special Research Centre of the Australian Research Council

2014 Annual Report

OverviewThe Particulate Fluids Processing Centre (PFPC) is a Special Research Centre of the Australian Research Council (ARC) based at the University of Melbourne, Australia. The PFPC explores interfacial science and engineering for the processing of particulate fluids and advanced materials. The PFPC brings together scientists and engineers across the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and the Schools of Mathematics & Statistics and Chemistry to form one of the world’s leading multidisciplinary research centres in interfacial science and engineering.

Mission statement“To perform basic science in nano and colloid chemistry and interfacial continuum mechanics all set within a process engineering framework.”

Strategic objective“Development, in Australia, of scientific and engineering expertise and personnel that will ensure that value added advanced particulate fluid and material products are produced from Australian resources.”

Front Cover: Electron microscopy images giving evidence of surface seeding on micrometre sized titania beads and then hollowing through an Ostwald ripening process giving core/shell, yolk/shell and hollow titania structures.

Electron microscopy images: Lu Cao (PhD student)

Particulate Fluids Processing Centre2014 Annual Report

Contents

Director’s Report 2

Management Structure and Personnel 4

Research Program Highlights 8

Liquid-Liquid Systems 8

Sorption at Liquid-Liquid Interfaces 9

Ultrasonics 13

Emulsion Behaviour 16

Surfactant and Polymer Structure in Solution 18

Solid-Liquid Systems 20

Minerals - Processing and Materials 21

Controlled Porous Structures 24

Suspension Rheology 38

Surface Forces and Spectroscopy 41

Education and Training 46

Students 47

Seminar Series 52

Awards and Achievements 54

Networks 60

Presentations 66

Publications 74

Research Funding 82

Financial Statement 91

Research Facilities 92

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Director’s Report

Professor Geoff Stevens

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The Particulate Fluids Processing Centre (PFPC), a Special Research Centre of the Australian Research Council, is the preeminent centre for interfacial science and engineering in Australia and is focused primarily on basic science and the engineering applications of interfaces at the mesoscale level.

We like to think of the PFPC as the hub that supplies key science and knowledge to a variety of important applied research centres and associated companies that will add value to advanced particulate fluid and material products that are produced from Australian resources; these are our spokes.

The structure of our “hub and spokes” model is illustrated in the figure to the right. At the centre the PFPC is focused on the production of knowledge in the area of colloid and interfacial science and engineering. Emanating from the core research knowledge is a range of activities where the basic knowledge has been, and is being, applied. The largest of these are shown.

This model enables us to concentrate on the core fundamental science which is the heart and strength of the PFPC and to find a direct link to the application of much of our science in areas of relevance to Australia. Our application areas cover health, food, pharmaceuticals, secure supply of water and energy (and the environmental implications of these), environmental cleanup, mining and metallurgy. Issues that come from these applications stimulate our scientists, engineers and students, and in some cases drive the directions of our research.

We have strong and ongoing research in surface force measurement and modelling as well as electrokinetics, nanoscience, ultrasonics, adsorption processes at interfaces, transport of molecules through interfaces, flow through porous materials, development of controlled porous materials and rheology.

The area of science highlighted on the front cover is the production of interesting core/shell, yolk/shell and hollow titania structures that enhance photocatalytic activity in aqueous solution. The development of these new structures is the key focus of PhD student Lu Cao and her supervisor Rachel Caruso.

I would like to congratulate Frank Caruso for his award of the Victoria Prize for Science and Innovation (Physical

Sciences). David Boger’s considerable lifetime achievements were recognised by an Honorary Doctor of Science degree from Bucknell University in the USA. Congratulations also to Raymond Dagastine on his promotion to Professor and to Andrea O’Connor for winning the Edward Brown Award for excellence in teaching in higher education. This year I was awarded the Patricia Grimshaw Award for Mentor Excellence which was very welcome and humbling.

Performance Highlights

Research Outcomes

PFPC researchers continued to be very prolific in publishing their research with 229 refereed publications during 2014. These publications included 3 edited books, 11 book chapters, 208 refereed journal articles and 7 international refereed conference papers.

Our researchers have a high profile at national and international conferences with over 220 conference and meeting presentations given throughout the year. Twenty two of these presentations were plenary or keynote lectures.

The Centre’s national and international network remains strong. In 2014, 67% of publications involved either national or international collaboration (i.e. collaboration with researchers outside of the PFPC).

As highlighted in the Annual Report members of the Centre received a number of distinguished awards for research and services to the community. They are highly regarded by their peers as illustrated by their editorial board appointments, the editorial roles they serve and the conference contributions they make.

Our researchers received $11.5 million in nationally competitive peer reviewed project grants including those from the Australian Research Council and other Commonwealth bodies as well as State funding.

Education and Training

In 2014 21 students graduated and 36 new students started bringing the total of postgraduate students conducting research across the Centre to 160. A key objective of the Centre is to attract the very best students and a significant proportion of our students attract competitive scholarships such as Australian Postgraduate Awards which cover stipends and tuition fees. This represents an additional unlisted income to the Centre of about $4.5 million during the year.

Throughout the year the Centre had 56 postdoctoral researchers in residence. Approximately 10% of these postdoctoral researchers were funding their own positions through fellowships that they had obtained, for example, from the Australian Research Council.

Without doubt our major strength is the people associated with the Centre. Our academics and research fellows have enormous enthusiasm for undertaking cutting-edge research. This enthusiasm engages the many students working with them in the Centre.

I have been Director of the Particulate Fluids Processing Centre since 2005 and after ten years it is time to “pass the baton” to Professor Peter Scales. I have very much enjoyed my time as Director of the PFPC and working with an inspiring group of researchers and students. During that period the PFPC has transitioned from the ARC Special Research Centre funding to a self-funding model, with support from the University of Melbourne, and has grown its funding base by concentrating on its basic science by supporting this through increased industry and joint research initiatives such as those shown in the figure above left. I am sure that the PFPC will continue to grow and develop under the guidance of Peter and I wish him and the whole PFPC well in the future.

On behalf of the members of the PFPC I would like to thank The University of Melbourne and our many research sponsors for their support of our research.

Professor Geoff Stevens

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Management Structure and Personnel

From left: Professor Derek Chan and Professor Tom Healy

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Executive Committee The Executive meets on a fortnightly basis to discuss the administration and management of the Centre. Issues discussed at the Executive meetings throughout 2014 included planning related to the Centre’s research directions, new research appointments and research funding applications. In 2014 the Executive Members were:

Professor Geoffrey Stevens BE(Chem), PhD, FTSE, FIChemE, FAusIMM Director

Professor Franz Grieser BSc, PhD, FRACI, FAA Deputy Director Liquid-Liquid Systems Program Leader

Professor Peter Scales BSc(Hons), PhD, FIChemE, FEA Solid-Liquid Systems Program Leader

Dr Michelle de Silva BSc(Hons), PhD Centre Manager

Professor Muthupandian Ashokkumar BSc, MSc, PhD

Professor Frank Caruso BSc(Hons), PhD, FRACI, FAA

Professor Raymond Dagastine PhD

Professor George Franks SB, PhD

Professor Sandra Kentish BE, MEngSci, PhD

Professor Paul Webley PhD

Professor Neil Furlong BSc(Hons), PhD Brunel, DEng(Hon), FTSE Strategy Advisor

Professor David Boger BS(ChemEng), MS(ChemEng), PhD, DE(Hon), FAA, FTSE, FRS Chair, Advisory Board

Professor Tom Healy MSc, PhD, DSc(Hon), LLD(Hon), FRACI, FAA, FTSE, AO Chair, Science Board

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Since the cessation of the ARC Special Research Centre grant, funding to bring together the PFPC Boards on an annual basis is not available. However, we maintain strong links with our Board Members and will reinstate meetings of the Advisory and Science Boards in the future. No meetings were held in 2014.

Advisory BoardThe Centre’s Advisory Board is a key strategic group that advises on a range of issues including the governance of the Centre, resources, succession planning, the structure of the scientific and technological programs and interactions with customers. The board provides guidance on the incorporation of the Centre’s activities into the strategic directions of academic, CSIRO and industry research and development.

Professor David Boger (Chair) Particulate Fluids Processing Centre The University of Melbourne, AustraliaMr Tim Bowser Head of R&D Opiates Division, GlaxoSmithKline, AustraliaProfessor Richard Buscall Principle MSACT Consulting, UKProfessor Calum Drummond Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research & Innovation & Vice-President RMIT University, AustraliaLaureate Professor Graeme Jameson ARC DORA Fellow School of Engineering, University of Newcastle, Australia

Professor Wayne Morrison Director O’Brien Institute and O’Brien Foundation, Australia

Professor Brij Moudgil Director ERC for Particle Science & Technology, University of Florida, USA

Laureate Professor John Ralston Immediate past Director Ian Wark Research Institute, University of South Australia, Australia

Dr Brian Smith Previously Senior Manager Research & Development BHP Billiton, Australia

Science BoardThe Science Board acts as the scientific audit body reporting to the Director on the current performance and ongoing potential of the Centre’s science and technology. The purpose of the Science Board is to ensure the attainment of high quality research across the PFPC, strengthen internal and external science networks, support all staff and students to seek out and use the best research ideas, theories and techniques from around the world. The Board aids the Centre to build a culture of quantitative thinking in all projects.

Professor Tom Healy (Chair) Particulate Fluids Processing Centre The University of Melbourne, Australia

Dr Patrick Hartley Research Director, Energy Flagship CSIRO, Australia

Professor T. Alan Hatton Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA

Laureate Professor Graeme Jameson ARC DORA Fellow School of Engineering, University of Newcastle, Australia

Professor Kazue Kurihara Principle Investigator, WPI-AIMR Tohoku University, JapanProfessor Luis Liz-Marzán Scientific Director, CIC biomaGUNE San Sebastián, SpainMr Mark Pascoe CEO International Water Centre, AustraliaProfessor Ian Snape Australian Antarctic Division, AustraliaProfessor Brian Vincent University of Bristol, UK

Senior Industrial FellowsThe Centre’s Senior Industrial Fellows are appointed to provide specialist industrial advice to members of the PFPC. The role is varied for each Senior Industrial Fellow and may include participation in collaborative research projects, co-supervision of students, access to the Centre’s extensive infrastructure and a residency term in the Centre. In 2014 the following were appointed as Senior Industrial Fellows to the Centre:

Professor Robin J. Batterham, AO Kernot Professor of Engineering, The University of Melbourne, AustraliaDr Mark Coghill Principal Technologist, Rio Tinto Limited, AustraliaDr David Dixon Contractor, Victoria, Australia

Dr Rob Eldridge Contractor, Victoria, AustraliaProfessor Jannie J.S. van Deventer Professorial Fellow, The University of Melbourne, Australia CEO Zeobond Group, AustraliaDr David Yates Principal, Yates Technical Services Pty Ltd, Australia

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Centre Manager Dr Michelle de Silva

Centre Administrative Assistant Tabitha Cesnak

Research and Teaching Staff Professor Muthupandian Ashokkumar Professor David Boger Associate Professor Steven Carnie

Professor Frank Caruso Associate Professor Rachel Caruso Professor Derek Chan Professor Raymond Dagastine Professor David Dunstan Professor George Franks Associate Professor Michelle Gee Associate Professor Sally Gras Professor Franz Grieser Dr Dalton Harvie Professor Tom Healy

Professor Sandra Kentish Professor Spas Kolev Professor Rob Lamb Dr Kathryn Mumford Associate Professor Andrea O’Connor Professor Greg Qiao Professor Peter Scales Professor Geoff Stevens Dr Anthony Stickland Associate Professor Antoinette Tordesillas Professor Paul Webley

Centre Membership

Research Fellows Dr Ines Almeida Dr Joseph Berry Dr Nadja Bertleff Dr Tejas Bhatelia Dr Julia Braunger Dr Jayani Chandrapala Dr Maryline Chee Kimling Dr Dehong Chen Dr George Chen Dr Kwun Lun (Jacky) Cho Dr Jiwei Cui Dr Yunlu Dai Dr Kithsiri Dassanayake Dr Augustine Doronila Dr Xiaofei Duan Dr Qiang Fu Dr Paul Gurr Dr Ronald Halim Dr Fatin HasanDr Ming Hu Dr Shinji Kanehashi Dr Konrad Krysiak-Baltyn Dr Katharina Ladewig Dr Andrew Lee Dr Judy Lee Dr Andy Leung

Dr Xu Li Dr Josephine Lim Dr Srinivas Mettu Dr Markus Müllner Dr Nathan Nicholas Dr Lydia Ong Dr Berkay Ozcelik Dr Shuhua Peng Dr Jilska Perera Dr Yuan (Tony) Ping Dr Emma Prime Dr Rackel San Nicolas Dr Colin Scholes Dr Jin Shang Dr Ranjeet Singh Dr Kathryn Smith Dr Georgina Such Dr Adrian Sulistio Dr Huanli Sun Dr Carolina Tallon Dr Phong Tran Dr Shane Usher Dr Huabin Wang Dr Yong Wang Dr Edgar Hoe Hon Wong Dr Alex Wu Dr Yuezhu (Penny) Xiao Dr Yan (Annie) Yan Dr Xuehua Zhang Dr Yanlin Zhang Dr Meifang Zhou

Research Support Staff Alita Aguiar Jeffri Gouw Benjamin Hibbs Dr Lauren Hyde Indrawan Indrawan Marloes Kampuis Adrian Knight Dr Phoebe Macdougall Patrick Mornane Marta Redrado Notivoli Joseph Richardson Dr Matthew Rowles Dr Catherine Sutton Blaise Tardy Jenny Tran

Postgraduate Students See pp 47-51

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Research Program Highlights

Liquid-Liquid SystemsFrom left: Professor Raymond Dagastine, Professor Franz Grieser,

Associate Professor Steven Carnie

The Liquid-Liquid program addresses experimental and theoretical problems, with respect to interfaces under static and dynamic conditions. It is practically divided into four theme areas, namely:• Sorption at Liquid-Liquid Interfaces• Ultrasonics• Emulsion Behaviour• Surfactant and Polymer Structure in Solution

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Sorption at Liquid-Liquid Interfaces

Research Staff Associate Professor Steven Carnie Dr Dalton Harvie Professor Spas Kolev Dr Kathryn Mumford Professor Geoff Stevens Professor Paul Webley

Dr Ines Almeida Dr Augustine Doronila Dr Ronald Halim Dr Fatin Hasan Dr Jilska Perera Dr Kathryn Smith Dr Yong Wang Dr Penny Xiao Dr Yanlin Zhang

Patrick Mornane

Research Students Hannah Alcantara Suhaib Ali Ya Ya Nutchapurida Bonggotgetsakul Teobaldo Grabin B. Manori Jayawardane Wen Li Zheng Li Lachlan Mason Edward Nagul Yukie O’Bryan Karolina Petkovic-Duran James Quinn Adlin Ramdzan Fan Wu

Project Updates

Onboard ether synthesis from alcohols

Suhaib Ali, Fatin Hasan, Paul Webley

Short chain aliphatic ethers, such as dimethyl ether (DME) and diethyl ether (DEE), are excellent fuels for compression ignition (CI) engines, due to their high cetane numbers, low ignition temperatures, attractive spray characteristics and, in the case of DME, soot free combustion. However, these fuels are challenging to distribute and store. DME, with a boiling point of -24°C, requires pressurised tanks and DEE, although a liquid has a low vapour pressure and is prone to forming explosive peroxides on storage. The alcoholic precursors of DME and DEE, methanol and ethanol, respectively,

are liquids at ambient temperature and pressure and hence ideal for transport and storage. An attractive strategy, which combines the storage advantages of the alcohol with the combustion properties of the ether, is the on-board conversion by dehydration, immediately prior to combustion, of the former to the latter. To achieve this careful integration of a dehydration reactor, the engine and the exhaust gas manifold will be required. Ideally the fuel produced will be fed directly to the engine, as this will avoid the need to store DEE. A consequence of this is that the composition of the fuel supplied to the engine will vary according to the flux through the reactor. The exhaust gas and heat produced by the engine will also vary, with consequences

for the exhaust gas treatment system and the reactor, which will utilise the heat in the exhaust gas.

Influence of plate wettability on the performance of a pulsed disc and doughnut column

Teobaldo Grabin, Kathryn Mumford, Kathryn Smith, Yong Wang, Geoff Stevens

The pulsed disc and doughnut column can be seen as a variation of the pulsed perforated plate column. It comprises a series of discs and doughnuts placed vertically as internal components. It has gained attention due to its simple design, compact nature and lack of internal moving parts leading to

CollaborationsBHP Billiton, Olympic Dam, Australia Mr Kym Dudley

Chiang Mai University, Thailand Professor Kate Grudpan Dr Wasin Wongwilai

Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) – Indian Institute of Petroleum, India Dr M.O. Garg

CSIRO, Australia Dr Nick Burke Dr Ilias Kyratzis Dr Jim Patel Dr Yen Truong Dr Peter Witt

Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning, VIC, Australia Dr Michael Heaven Dr David Nash

GlaxoSmithKline, Australia Dr Tim Bowser Dr Campbell Scott

Kanazawa Institute of Technology, Japan Professor Yu Komatsu

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA Professor Alan Hatton

Monash University, Australia Professor Wei Shen

The University of Melbourne, Australia Professor Robert Cattrall Mr Charles Croft Associate Professor Ian McKelvie

Tsinghua University, China Professor Weiyang Fei

University of Miyazaki, Japan Professor Yoshinari Baba

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safety and economic benefits. A few investigators have reported the effect of plate wettability on the performance of pulsed perforated plate column with contradictory results.

A Tri-n-octylamine – sulphuric acid – water system was used in the study of the hydrodynamics and mass transfer performance of a pilot plant pulsed disc and doughnut column. The wetting properties of the plates were varied by using three different materials with distinct wetting properties, namely Teflon (hydrophobic), nylon (intermediate) and stainless steel (hydrophilic). The data shows that plate material has a significant influence on the performance of this type of equipment, which is important in the design and operation of this prominent type of solvent extraction contactor.

Microfluidic paper-based analytical device for the determination of nitrite and nitrate

B. Manori Jayawardane, Wei Shen, Ian McKelvie, Spas Kolev

A low-cost disposable colourimetric μPAD was developed for the determination of nitrite and nitrate by the Griess reaction. First, nitrate is reduced to nitrite in the μPAD’s hydrophilic channel using immobilised zinc microparticles. Under optimal conditions, the limits of detections for nitrite and nitrate are 1.0 and 19 μM, respectively. This μPAD is suitable for on-site measurement of environmental and drinking waters.

Evaluation and application of a paper-based device for the determination of reactive phosphate in soil solution

B. Manori Jayawardane, Wasin Wongwilai, Kate Grudpan, Spas Kolev, Michael Heaven, David Nash, Ian McKelvie

This project investigates modifications to phosphate μPADs that have resulted in greater storage stability and better resistance to photodegradation, making the devices more suitable for in-field determination of reactive P in soil

solutions. Comparison of the proposed μPAD method with the reference method shows very strong agreement between the two, with only a small standard error of 0.07 mg L-1 P (n = 110).

Solvent extraction column performance study of pulsed columns for solvent extraction

Wen Li, Geoff Stevens, Kathryn Mumford

Pulsed columns are used as high efficiency solvent extraction contactors in uranium recovery (Olympic Dam Operations, Australia) and for cobalt and nickel extraction (Goro Nickel, New Caledonia). The disc and doughnut shaped baffles (old internals) improve the contact between two immiscible liquids and help with the processes with fast kinetics. This project aims to examine potential improvements to the internals and to develop internals that are applicable to slow kinetic systems. This research will study the effect of operating characteristics (flow rates, pulse frequency and pulse amplitude) on dispersed phase holdup, droplet size, mass transfer coefficient and axial dispersion coefficient. This work will quantify the improvement in column efficiency with the new column internals and also optimise the utilisation of pulsed columns in industrial applications.

Thermodynamic modelling of liquid-liquid equilibrium for extraction of alkaloids

Zheng Li, Kathryn Mumford, Kathryn Smith, Geoff Stevens

Alkaloids are plant based materials that have numerous pharmaceutical uses, such as morphine for pain relief. Alkaloids can be extracted from plant materials by solvent extraction, which is a thermodynamic liquid-liquid equilibrium (LLE) process. Development of thermodynamic models to predict the performance of these processes could significantly reduce the experimental work required to understand the extraction process and provide guidance

for more efficient and sustainable operating conditions. Therefore the overall aim of this project is to develop a thermodynamic model that can describe the extraction of alkaloids from poppies including morphine, oripavine, codeine and thebaine. In order to develop this thermodynamic model we are studying the extraction of phenol, which is used as a model compound to mimic alkaloids, along with the non-random two-liquid (NRTL) model and its expansions through three main steps. The regression of the NRTL parameters, which are to be used for LLE calculation, is conducted by particle swarm optimization (PSO) and the obtained root mean square deviations (RMSD) are smaller compared with literature values. Also, a critical analysis of the isoactivity equations under mass balance constraints for LLE calculation has been carried out and the structure of solutions to these equations categorised into three types. This led to the development of a new and simple procedure to determine the correct LLE state from multiple potential solutions. Extraction of phenol by toluene in the presence of sodium hydroxide was carried out with a variety of analytical techniques and is modelled by the NRTL model and the e-NRTL model on the basis of results obtained from the first two steps. These models have potential to be implemented into the industrial operations at GlaxoSmithKline in western Victoria where medicinal alkaloids are extracted from poppies grown in Tasmania.

Dynamics of liquid–liquid coalescence in industrial solvent extraction

Lachlan Mason, Geoff Stevens, Peter Witt, Dalton Harvie

Liquid-liquid extraction units are core separations systems in the metals, pharmaceutical and nuclear reprocessing industries. In Australia, extraction systems are widely used for the separation of base metals and rare-earth elements from their leached ores. A throughput-limiting process is the efficient separation of raffinate and loaded organic phases via coalescence of dispersed droplets. New

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Postgraduate student Lachlan Mason, Dr Kathryn Smith, Professor Geoff Stevens, Dr Jilska Perera and postgraduate Zheng Li attended ISEC 2014 International Solvent Extraction Conference in Würzburg, Germany in September.

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research findings are needed in order to quantify the physical and chemical regimes that favour coalescence, which will aid in the design and optimisation of hydrometallurgical processing equipment; with both economic and environmental benefits.

Modelling techniques have been applied ranging in complexity from one-dimensional energy balances to a coupled volume-of-fluid/subgrid-scale film drainage framework. Results have been validated using existing studies for droplet-wall interactions, while new experimental data for controlled, free-droplet binary collisions has been generated in collaboration with TU Kaiserslautern, Germany. Insight from simulation and experimental results undertaken over multiple length scales will be of use in developing coalescence kernels for unit-scale modelling of solvent extraction processes.

Extraction and preconcentration of phosphomolybdenum blue using polymer inclusion membranes

Edward Nagul, Charles Croft, Robert Cattrall, Spas Kolev

Orthophosphate is a primary nutrient, the monitoring of which is crucial in both maintaining the health of terrestrial waterways and understanding marine nutrient cycling. However, the standard molybdenum blue method for orthophosphate determination lacks the sensitivity to reliably determine marine orthophosphate concentrations without preconcentration, and such sample pretreatment methods are typically tedious and/or unsuitable for use in the field. Polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) provide a cheap, environmentally friendly means of chemical extraction and back-extraction across a polymeric film impregnated with an extraction reagent, which are also amenable to use in automated analysis systems. Previous ‘proof-of-concept’ work on orthophosphate preconcentration using a PIM relied on the extraction of orthophosphate itself via anion exchange, which whilst effective in ‘clean’

solutions was vulnerable to competitive anion exchange in many environmental samples. Current work is aimed at using an extractant within the PIM which operates not by anion exchange, but by a coordination mechanism, thus eliminating matrix interference in saline samples where analyte preconcentration is often vital for reliable analysis. In this study, PIMs have been used for the first time in the extraction of the highly coloured phosphomolybdenum blue complex as a means of improving the sensitivity of environmental orthophosphate determination. PIMs containing poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) as the polymer, trioctylphosphine oxide (TOPO) as the coordinating extractant and 2-nitrophenyl octyl ether (NPOE) as the plasticiser were found to extract phosphomolybdenum blue homogeneously across the membrane, and exhibited physicochemical stability. Numerous extractants were examined in the course of this work, and solvent extraction experiments were performed to determine the extraction constants and stoichiometry of several complexes. PIM compositions were optimised for stability and extraction performance.

Extracting polymer wool as column packing for online preconcentration of thiocyanate

Yukie O’Bryan, Yen Truong, Robert Cattrall, Ilias Kyratzis, Spas Kolev

Fibres are attractive alternatives to particles as column packing material for solid-phase extraction because they can provide large specific surface area without generating high back pressure. In this study a novel extracting polymer wool has been fabricated by electrospinning. The fibres had an average diameter of 1.3 μm. This material was studied for the application as the packing material for a sample preconcentration column in an automated flow injection system for the determination of thiocyanate. Large volumes of thiocyanate solutions (2-10 mL) were passed through the fibre-packed column where thiocyanate was extracted by the fibres. The column

was then eluted with a small volume of sodium nitrate of high concentration. The eluate was merged with an iron(III) solution online and the resulting coloured complex (FeSCN2+) was detected by a spectrophotometer. The system successfully achieved over 20-fold preconcentration of thiocyanate with a linear calibration curve.

An intensified process pathway for liquid phase methanol synthesis at moderate operating conditions

Fan Wu, Penny Xiao, Fatin Hasan, Paul Webley

A considerable amount of stranded gas reserves located onshore and offshore around Australia remain untapped due to the lack of the economic feasibility of on-site conversion of that gas into transportable fuels. Some of these reserves are small and remote, thus an attractive approach to monetise them is to develop a small scale and mobile production ‘plant’ which can be used to convert the gas into a transportable and higher value product at the source.

This research project focuses on using novel intensification technologies to scale down existing gas to liquid production plants and make them mobile and fit on offshore platforms. A substantial decrease in equipment size/production-capacity ratio results in less energy consumption and waste production and hence lower capital cost.

The aim is to develop an intensified reaction system for low temperature and low pressure methanol synthesis process. A micro-channel flow path will be designed, utilising the Taylor flow phenomena to maximise mass transfer and to enhance the productivity of the reactor per unit volume. Detailed kinetic mechanisms will be developed and incorporated into a reactor model, which is modelled in ANSYS Fluent. An experimental system that allows for a flow domain to be studied under varying temperature and pressure conditions will be developed and used to identify the optimal reaction conditions.

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Ultrasonics

Research Staff Professor Muthupandian Ashokkumar Professor Franz Grieser Professor Sandra Kentish

Dr Jayani Chandrapala Dr Judy Lee Dr Meifang Zhou

Research Students Salmah Almarhabi

Sukhvir Kaur Bhangu Don Bui

Francesca Cavalieri Enrico Colombo

Wu Li Krishnmurthy Prasad Akalya Shanmugam

Sinuo Tan Qianyu Ye

Nor Saadah Mohd Yusof Jinxuan Zhang

CollaborationsCallington Haven P/L, Australia

Dr Matthew Wilkinson

Dairy Innovation Australia Dr Martin Palmer

Dr Bogdan Zisu

Osaka Prefecture University, Japan Professor Kenji Okitsu

The University of Aukland, New Zealand Professor Yacine Hemar

The University of Melbourne, Australia Professor Jonathan White

Université de Franche-Comté, France Professor Jean-Yves Hihn

Project Updates

Sonochemical degradation of p-toluenesulfonic acid in relation to ultrasonic modification of structure of micelles

Salmah Almarhabi, Muthupandian Ashokkumar

The ultrasonic modification of the structure of the cetyltrimethylammonium bromide/p-toluene sulfonic acid (CTAB/p-TSA) micellar system in aqueous solutions was investigated. The sonochemical degradation of p-TSA was studied to investigate whether it affected the properties of the micellar system. As an added benefit, it was found that the sonochemical degradation of the non-biodegradable and environmentally hazardous p-TSA resulted in the formation of hydroxolated products. Cavitation generated OH radicals are involved in the oxidative degradation of the organic pollutant. The degradation of p-TSA was found to be very low in the

presence of CTAB. Hence, it is concluded that the ultrasonic degradation of p-TSA does not occur to a significant extent in the presence of a surfactant.

CTAB/sodium salicilate micellar system at high concentrations showed a micro-structural change under the influence of ultrasound (Yusof and Ashokkumar, Soft Matter 2013, 6, 1723). The study was extended to a different micellar system, namely, CTAB/p-TSA. However, this system did not show any structural change under the influence of ultrasound due to its greater stability.

Applications of ultrasound in various industrial chemical processes

Sukhvir Kaur Bhangu, Judy Lee, Muthupandian Ashokkumar

This project investigated the effect of ultrasound on the crystallisation

of paracetamol at different ultrasonic frequencies (22, 44, 98, 139 kHz) and powers (3, 6, 10, 13, 16 W) using multifrequency ultrasonic plate transducers. Sonication facilitates the nucleation of crystals and reduces the induction time in a controlled and reproducible way to generate narrow size distribution products. The mean crystal size obtained was around 14 μm as compared to 300 μm when crystallisation was carried out without sonication. In addition, sonication leads to the formation of a mix of polymorphs of paracetamol. In the coming year, the aim is to study the effect of ultrasound on biodiesel production by transesterification of vegetable oil using ultrasonic bath, horn and other ultrasonic reactors. The main objective of this work is to develop an approach that would enable us to enhance the percent conversion of vegetable oil to biodiesel and to understand the relationships between the

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different sonication parameters, reaction time, and enzyme amount to obtain the optimum conditions required for biodiesel production using ultrasound.

Ultrasonic synthesis of photocatalysts by oil-in-water emulsion method and evaluation of their photocatalytic performance

Enrico Colombo, Muthupandian Ashokkumar

This project has developed a new method to synthesise hollow microspheres of inorganic materials in order to improve their photocatalytic activity. The procedure uses ultrasound to generate an oil-in-water emulsion, where the non-polar phase is C10 hydrocarbon and the polar phase consists of an aqueous solution of a polysaccharide (Chitosan). The nanoparticles of the inorganic material are dispersed in the aqueous medium. After sonication, the microspheres produced have a core of oil surrounded by the polysaccharide to which the inorganic nanoparticles are attached. At this point, the microspheres are collected, dried and calcinated at high temperatures in order to remove the polysaccharide and the oil. The calcination process also crystallises the inorganic nanoparticles to create hollow and porous microspheres. The project also aims to

understand the mechanism of inorganic nanoparticle microsphere formation, in order to find a way to control the size and size distribution, and to develop micron sized photocatalysts, which have photocatalytic activity comparable to the nanosized particles. The advantage of using micron sized photocatalytic particles is that they are easily removed from the reaction medium after photocatalytic reactions.

Ultrasound-assisted fabrication of mesoporous metal framework

Wu Li, Judy Lee, Muthupandian Ashokkumar

The frequency effect on the size of sonochemically synthesised gold nanoparticles (NPs) was investigated. Plate transducers (22, 44, 98, 128, 139, 300, 500, 1000 and 2000 kHz) were used in these experiments. The results indicated that the average size of the gold NPs can be controlled from 7 nm to 30 nm using different frequencies. Minimum sized gold NPs were chosen to fabricate the mesoporous metal framework via a template coating method. In a typical experiment, gold chloride, reducing agent and template were sonicated in an aqueous medium. Different surface modified polystyrene (PS) beads (carboxylate and amine-modified) were

employed as templates. The surface coverage of PS was examined by TEM. In the second stage of this project, experimental conditions will be optimised to improve the coverage, templates will be removed following complete coating with gold NPs and the metal structure will be compressed to form thin films which could be used in membrane filtration applications.

Energy efficiency and advantages of ultrasonic synthesis of nanomaterials

Krishnamurthy Prasad, Muthupandian Ashokkumar

The physico-chemical effects of ultrasound (US) have been used widely for synthesising various materials. The focus of this project is to evaluate the energy efficiency and advantages of ultrasonic synthetic processes. Poly(methyl methacrylate) and poly(methyl methacrylate)-CaCO3 nanocomposites were synthesised by conventional and US-assisted (USK) emulsion polymerization. Although the conversions obtained were similar for both processes, nanocomposites produced by USK were smaller with a narrower particle size distribution. A comparison of the synthesis techniques based on energy input is in progress. In another study, the photocatalytic activities

Researchers contributing to the Ultrasonics ThemeBack row: Visitors Dr Ludo Dumee and Mr Bao Lin (Deakin University, Australia); Dr Meifang Zhou; Dr Francesca Cavalieri;

Krishnmurthy Prasad; Jinxuan Zhang; Don Bui; Dr Bandar Babgi (visiting from King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia); Dr Shweta Gupta (The MS University of Baroda, India); Sinouo (Snow) Tan; Dr Leena Chandi Dharmarathne;

visiting student Kuberan Kannan (SRM University, India); Professor Ashokkumar Muthupandian; Wu Li.Front row: Dr Judy Lee; Sukhvir Kaur Bhangu; Qianyu (Matilda) Ye; Enrico Colombo.

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of CdS nanoparticles synthesised using US were compared with those synthesised using mechanical agitation on the basis of energy input. Samples synthesised using a US horn (USH) and a high shear homogeniser (HSH) showed a lower photocatalytic activity compared to those synthesised in an US bath (USB) and using mechanical stirring (NUS). However, when the power input per unit volume (W/L) is considered, the order of effectiveness of the catalysts is USB>NUS>HSH>USH, suggesting that the mild cavitation conditions generated in the USB process are sufficient to produce an efficient photocatalyst.

Ultrasonic formation of stable food emulsions for the delivery of nutrients

Akalya Shanmugam, Muthupandian Ashokkumar

The formation and physico-chemical characterisation of emulsions of flaxseed oil in carrot juice (beverage emulsions) using 20 kHz ultrasound (US) at different process time and applied power was investigated. The intense shear forces of US at an optimum process time (4 min at 176 W), aided in movement, adsorption and orientation of the emulsifiers that were inherently present in the juice. The pectins of pasteurised carrot juice and the proteins stabilised the emulsions. The results also revealed that sonication did not affect the properties of carrot juice, mainly cloud stability of carrot particles. In addition, the absence of non-enzymatic browning, reduction of pectin methyl esterase enzyme demonstrated the advantages of US processing. In continuation of previous years’ work the functional properties of flaxseed oil-milk emulsions were investigated. It was found that milk emulsions were stable against oxidation and the sono-emulsification process improved the gelation characteristics of the end product-lactic acid gel, primarily because of the new fat globular surface made of denatured whey proteins. The gelation characters such as gelation time, gel strength, storage modulus and syneresis showed improvements, which helped in proposing a mechanism for gelation.

Ultrasonic synthesis of chemically-modified chitosan microspheres

Sinuo Tan, Meifang Zhou, Jonathan White, Muthupandian Ashokkumar

The aim of this project is to investigate methods for preparation of stable

chitosan microspheres. To do so, there are two stages involved: modify chitosan by grafting thiol groups into the chitosan backbone and fabricate crosslinked chitosan by a sonochemical process. To date, 4-mercaptoaldehyde has been used to thiolate chitosan. As a first step various approaches were used to synthesise 4-mercaptoaldehyde. In the future, the aim is to employ different methods to modify chitosan in order to fabricate stable chitosan microspheres. It is anticipated that thiolated chitosan microspheres would be very stable due to disulfide linkages. After developing a successful procedure, the microspheres will be characterised using a number of techniques that include optical, fluorescence and electron microscopies. AFM will be used to quantify the mechanical strength of the microspheres. The methodology developed will ultimately be used for the encapsulation and delivery of a variety of food flavour compounds.

Ultrasonic encapsulation of food flavours

Qianyu Ye, Meifang Zhou, Muthupandian Ashokkumar

In this project microspheres composed of chitosan as the shell and food flavours as the core using a high intensity ultrasound technique were prepared. Experimental procedures were developed for tuning the size, stability, shell stiffness and shell thickness of microspheres. The structural and functional properties of the chitosan-shelled microspheres were studied with a view to develop potential uses for food industry. The amount of acetic acid used to dissolve chitosan in aqueous solutions seemed to affect the size and stability of the microspheres significantly. In the future, the aim is to understand the mechanism behind chitosan encapsulation and microsphere stability.

Ultrasonic transformation of micelle structures

Nor Saadah Mohd Yusof, Muthupandian Ashokkumar

Industrial uses of micelle systems rely heavily on their structural and functional characteristics. This project involved a comprehensive investigation on the effect of ultrasonic frequency and power on the structural transformation of CTABr/NaSal micelles. Sonication of this micelle system at various ultrasonic frequencies and power resulted in the formation and

separation of two types of micelles. High viscoelastic threadlike micelles of ~ 2 nm in diameter and several μm in length and tubular micelles possessing a viscosity slightly above that of water with ~ 30 to 50 nm diameter and few nm length. The structural transformation of micelles was induced by the shear forces generated during acoustic cavitation. At a fixed acoustic power of 40 W, the structural transformation was found to decrease from 211 to 647 kHz frequency due to the decreasing shear forces generated, as evidenced by rheological measurements and cryo-TEM images. At 355 kHz, an increase in the structural transformation was observed with an increase in acoustic power. These findings provide a knowledge base that could be useful for the manipulation of viscosity of micelles that may have applications in oil industry.

The sonochemical synthesis of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) using high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) operated at 463 kHz was also studied. GNP formation proceeded via the reduction of Au3+ to Au0 by the acoustic cavitation generated radicals. TEM images revealed that GNPs show irregular shapes at 30 W, primarily icosahedron at 50 W and significant amount of nanorods at 70 W. The size of GNPs decreased with an increase in acoustic power with a narrower size distribution. The number of radicals formed and the mechanical forces generated controlled the shape and size of the GNPs. UV-visible spectra and TEM images have been used to propose a possible mechanism for the observed effects.

Ultrasonic synthesis of nanoparticles-encapsulated microspheres for step-wise release of functional materials

Jinxuan Zhang, Meifang Zhou, Muthupandian Ashokkumar

The aim of this project is to develop a new methodology to encapsulate nanoparticles/nanospheres containing a specific functional material inside larger microspheres containing a second functional material. The goal is to achieve step-wise release of two different functional materials. A method for this process was successfully developed. For example, PLGA nanoparticles, loaded with a water soluble flavour, have been encapsulated within lysozyme microspheres containing an oil-soluble flavour. If successful, the outcome of this project has great potential in encapsulation and release of drugs and flavours.

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Emulsion Behaviour

Research Staff Professor Derek Chan Professor Raymond Dagastine Associate Professor Sally Gras Professor Franz Grieser Professor Sandra Kentish

Dr Phoebe Macdougall Dr Srinivas Mettu Dr Lydia Ong

Research Students Christopher Fewkes

Agustina Goh Thi Hong Hanh Nguyen

Anita Pax Kevany Soodam

Project Updates

Investigating sphere to rod transitions through droplet collisions in high concentration surfactant systems

Christopher Fewkes, Rico Tabor, Raymond Dagastine

Highly concentrated surfactant systems are commonly used in colloidal dispersions and emulsions in the formulation of complex fluids for a range of applications including personal care products, foods, lubricants, and in pharmaceuticals. At higher surfactant concentrations, surfactant aggregates often transition from smaller aggregate structures (e.g. spheres, ellipsoids, etc) to larger structures including worm like micelles, sponge phases and lamella phases. The influence of aggregate structure on surface forces and the properties of colloidal fluids is an interesting but not well investigated phenomenon. This study examines the effect of micelle aspect ratio on droplet collisions. Measurements were taken using atomic force microscopy (AFM) to investigate the interactions between drop-drop and particle-plate systems. Solutions of

hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (C16TAB) and sodium salicylate (NaSal) were used to generate micelles of varying profiles. The influence of the micelle shape on both static and dynamic interactions with a particular focus on structural forces was investigated. It was observed that small changes to the micelle shape didn’t significantly alter the surface force behaviour, however, once the micelles were elongated further the long range forces changed from oscillatory to that of a single attractive force well. A comparison between rigid and deformable interfaces was performed with good agreement regarding the underlying solution structure found.

The shear response of water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) emulsions in food systems

Agustina Goh, Raymond Dagastine, Leif Lundin

Water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) multiple emulsions provide a pathway to create systems with large dispersed phase fractions and low fat content, as required

in many food applications. They can also be used to deliver water soluble functional components in foods or drugs where these functional ingredients can be partitioned in the internal compartment of the double emulsion and released as the emulsion is exposed to an osmotic imbalance through dilution or mechanical treatment such as shear. Current applications of these emulsions have been limited due to difficulties in preparing, characterising and maintaining the stability of W/O/W emulsion systems. To address this challenge a greater understanding of the structure-function relationship of the different ingredients in a double emulsion is required. In addition, to control the stability of double emulsions it is necessary to understand the oil globule behaviour when exposed to external physico-chemical and mechanical environments. Recent work has focused on investigating the role of parameters, such as globule and internal aqueous phase fractions, viscosity, interfacial properties and globule size in controlling the release properties of the W/O/W emulsions. The effects of shear on the release properties of the W/O/W

CollaborationsCSIRO, Australia

Dr Leif Lundin

Institute of High Performance Computing, Singapore Dr Evert Klaseboer

Monash University, Australia Dr Rico Tabor

National University of Singapore, Singapore Professor Boo Cheong Khoo Dr Sun Qiang

Singapore Polytechnic, Singapore Dr Jiang Hao

Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Israel Assistant Professor Ofer Manor

University of Alberta, Canada Dr Plamen Tchoukov Professor Zhenghe Xu Professor Hongbo Zeng

University of Bristol, UK Professor Brian Vincent

Yates Technical Services Pty Ltd, Australia Dr David Yates

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emulsions were also investigated as a function of the different parameters mentioned above. Results from the study have shown that, the stability and the release patterns of W/O/W emulsions depend on more than one parameter that interacts simultaneously.

Non-singular boundary integral methods

Evert Klaseboer, Qiang Sun, Boo Cheong Khoo, Derek Chan

The boundary integral method of solving partial differential equations in science and engineering such as the Laplace equation for electrostatics and potential flow, the Helmholtz equation for acoustics, the Stokes equation for low Reynolds number flow in fluid mechanics and the equations governing linear elastic response of materials is in principle very efficient because it reduces the dimensionality of the problem by 1. This confers significant computational speed advantages. However, the integrals involve nearly singular behaviour that has to date required special numerical algorithms to handle them. We have developed a non-singular formulation of the boundary integral method that totally circumvents such singular behaviour. This formulation is being applied to study a range of problems in the interaction of soft materials, the fast and accurate calculation of electrostatic interactions between objects with complex shapes or molecules with arbitrary charge distributions as well as acoustic and electromagnetic propagation problems.

The microstructure and functional properties of mozzarella cheese

Anita Pax, Lydia Ong, Sandra Kentish, Sally Gras

The functional properties of mozzarella cheese, including shredding, melting and stretching, determine the end uses of mozzarella both as cheese and as a processed ingredient. These properties

can change when the manufacturing processes and conditions are altered. Through microscopic techniques such as confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and cryo-scanning electron microscopy (Cryo-SEM) we are able to observe changes in the microstructure that occur as a result of process changes. Images from CLSM can be transformed into three dimensional stacks that allow quantitative image analysis. In combination with functionality testing, these results can be used to develop structure-function relationships. This project aims to study the impact of variations in cheese composition and processing conditions on the microstructure and functionality of mozzarella cheese. This will equip the dairy processing industry with the tools to consistently produce high quality cheese, potentially enabling an increase in domestic sales as well as growth in export markets.

Microstructure in mature Cheddar cheese

Kevany Soodam, Lydia Ong, Sandra Kentish, Sally Gras

Cheese is an excellent source of calcium and phosphorus, a good source of vitamins A, B12, B2, iodine, sodium, zinc and magnesium, as well as being a very good anticariogenic food. Of Australia’s annual milk production, 33% is used in the manufacture of cheese. In turn, nearly 50% of this product is Cheddar cheese. As such, there is a need for an advanced understanding of the Cheddar making process and the mature product. We are applying microscopic techniques such as confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and cryo-scanning electron microscopy (Cryo-SEM) to assess how different parameters such as ripening temperature or rennet concentration may affect the cheese making process, the microstructure of the gel, curd and pressed cheese and ultimately the ripened mature cheese. CLSM allows three dimensional reconstructions of the

cheese and can be used for fluorescent labelling of the fat and protein sections within the product, thereby allowing changes in fat and protein distribution to be monitored throughout ripening. Cryo-SEM can in turn be used to observe the fat and protein network at higher magnification and the combined techniques can be used to close the gap in our understanding of the relationship between textural and physico-chemical properties in Cheddar cheese.

Emulsion drops stabilised using surfactant mixtures

Srinivas Mettu, Raymond Dagastine

Many emulsion formulations are stabilised by mixed surfactant systems containing a combination of ionic and non-ionic surfactants, where there has been far more academic study focused on single surfactant systems. There is a body of literature focused on the properties of mixed surfactant systems, notably examining the composition of mixed surfactant micelles in bulk or in the adsorption of mixed surfactant systems at the air-water interface. This work focuses on the stability of emulsion drops in the presence of mixed surfactant systems, using combinations of ionic and non-ionic surfactants. The interaction forces between emulsion drops were measured directly using atomic force microscopy (AFM) to characterise the surface potential of drops as a function of surfactant concentration and mixing ratio of ionic to non-ionic surfactant. Parallel studies measuring the adsorption isotherms of pure surfactants and mixture of surfactants were performed using the pendant drop method. These results were used to calculate the theoretical maximum surface charge of the emulsion drops based on interfacial composition. This surface charge was then compared to the surface charge determined via the AFM measurements to find the fraction of counter ion condensation observed on the emulsion drops of the mixed surfactant system.

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Surfactant and Polymer Structure in Solution

Research Staff Professor Dave Dunstan Associate Professor Sally Gras Associate Professor Andrea O’Connor Professor Greg Qiao

Dr Katharina Ladewig Dr Xu Li

Research Students Halleh Atri Mina Dokouhaki Terence Hartnett Stephen Homer Mahshid Kalani EunHyung Nam Sian-yang Ow Sara Sayanjali Barbara Sowa Suryani Tan Stephanie Tortorella Donglin Xie

CollaborationsCSL Bioplasma, Australia

Dr Joe Bertolini

CSIRO, Australia Dr MaryAnn Augustin Dr Roman Buckow Dr Patrick Hartley Dr Leif Lundin Dr Keith McLean Dr Chris McSweeney Dr Christine Oliver Ms Luz Sanguansri

Metabolomics Australia, Australia Dr Thusita Rupasinghe Dr Dedreia Tull

Project Updates

Ocular therapeutic drug delivery for opthalmic disorders of the posterior segment of the eye

Terence Hartnett, Katharina Ladewig, Patrick Hartley, Keith McLean, Andrea O’Connor

Diseases of the posterior segment of the eye are the cause of more than 80% of blindness in the developed world. With the recent development of novel macromolecular bioactive therapeutics to treat some of these diseases there is a need to develop drug delivery vehicles that can protect and prolong the lifetime of the therapeutic. One such delivery vehicle is the cubosome. Owing to their energy intensive production techniques, the use of cubosomes in the field of protein drug delivery has been limited. During 2014 we set about further developing cubosomes produced through the low energy ‘salt-induced’ production technique to enable the encapsulation of a set of hydrophilic proteins. This work is currently ongoing as we endeavour to

optimise both the detection techniques and encapsulation methods.

In addition to our lab work, 2014 provided the opportunity to travel to two conferences to present the work that we had completed in 2012 and 2013; the 41st Annual Meeting & Exposition of the Controlled Release Society, Chicago, Il, USA, 13-16 July and the 9th Liquid Matter Conference (Liquids 2014), Lisbon, Portugal, 21-25 July. Both conferences were thoroughly enjoyable and provided the opportunity to engage with leaders in the fields of controlled release and liquid matter science.

The effect of oscillatory strain during the formation of WPI gels composed of spherical aggregates

Stephen Homer, Leif Lundin, David Dunstan

The visco-elastic properties of heat-set whey protein isolate gels composed of spherical aggregates and produced under

oscillatory shear during aggregation and gelation have been investigated. It was determined that the application of shear above a critical strain results in a decrease in gel strength (G’), the extent of which is governed by the magnitude of the strain. Further investigations into the mechanical properties of the gels illustrated a strain hardening effect that was only present in gels produced during the application of elevated strains. Confocal laser scanning microscopy was used to examine the microstructure. Qualitative observation suggested that gels formed at elevated strains had larger pores and a more inhomogeneous microstructure than those produced under lower strains. Initial investigations into the behaviour of heat-set gels were also performed using β-lactoglobulin. Experiments involving synchrotron circular dichroism and small-angle X-ray scattering were also conducted on β-lactoglobulin gels produced at various pH values. These data will provide information on the different microstructures formed in the different

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pH environments and should also yield some quantitative information regarding the effect of shear on the microstructure.

Development of film fabrication techniques and applications

Eunjyung Nam, Greg Qiao

Polymeric films in the nanoscale are greatly important in a wide range of advanced materials and nanotechnologies with applications including electronic devices, membrane purification systems, and biomaterials. A number of approaches have been developed in recent decades for fabricating cross-linked ultra-thin films such as grafting and layer-by-layer assembly, where monomers/macromolecules deposit from the solution state onto a substrate. Recently, we developed a new film fabrication technique termed continuous assembly of polymers (CAP) that involves the one-step assembly of polymers containing polymerizable pendant groups to generate surface-confined, cross-linked nanoscale films. The research project focuses on developing novel coating systems including CAP and applying systems to potential applications such as photovoltaic devices, honeycomb structures and anti-fogging films.

Potential of oat fibre as a carrier for curcuminoid

Sara Sayanjali, Sally Gras, Roman Buckow, Luz Sanguansri, MaryAnn Augustin

Curcuminoids are polyphenols with many health promoting properties. Curcuminoid incorporation in food is limited due to poor aqueous solubility and stability as well as low oral bioavailability. These challenges can potentially be overcome by appropriate processing, formulation

and delivery systems design using food grade materials. Oat fibre is a healthy ingredient containing protein, fibre, lipids and β-glucan which can interact with polyphenols. The objective of this study is to investigate the potential of oat fibre as a carrier for curcuminoids to improve its solubility and stability when formulated in food. To achieve this objective we aim to (i) study interactions between curcuminoids and oat fibre components, (ii) evaluate the molecular and structural characteristics of curcumin in oat fibre complex, (iii) understand the effect temperature, moisture content and shear during extrusion processing on the functionality of oat fibre as a carrier for curcuminoids, and (iv) understand the effect of temperature, moisture content and shear during extrusion on the stability of curcuminoids and evaluate the characteristics of extruded snacks.

Metabolism of curcuminoids by intestinal bacteria in vitro

Suryani Tan, Thusita Rupasinghe, Dedreia Tull, Chris McSweeney, MaryAnn Augustin, Sally Gras

Dietary curcuminoids are polyphenolic compounds which display biological activities in vivo. Curcuminoids are converted to metabolites in vivo by enzymes and gut microflora but knowledge of the bacterial transformations is lacking. In vitro fermentation of curcuminoids by three colonic Escherichia bacteria and microflora in human foecal slurry were investigated. Liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry methods were developed to quantify the curcuminoids remaining and the metabolites formed. This study suggests that bacteria breakdown curcuminoids. It provides new insights into bacterial transformations of

curcuminoids.

Motions of nanoparticles in fluids

Donglin Xie, David Dunstan, Greg Qiao

The broad uses of engineered nanoscale materials in scientific research and industry attract interest in nanoparticle motion in suspensions. Most of the studies are done in the quiescent state, where hydrodynamic forces can be ignored. Once a flow is applied to a colloidal system, the hydrodynamic forces increase dramatically and need to be considered properly. The flow induced motion changes the colloidal system properties in bulk. In order to study particle motion in flow, a rheo-optic technique has been used in the experiments, which is based on absorption spectra combining with numerical simulations.

The motion of gold nanorods in dilute suspensions was studied. Three kinds of gold nanorod samples with low aspect ratios were dispersed in Newtonian fluids. A shear-induced anisotropy in the suspension was attributed from the measured absorbance. Plateau values in the measured spectra were observed at high Peclet numbers, indicating that Jeffery’s orbit is a good description for nanorod motion and a limiting degree of particle orientation occurs.

Flow induced aggregation was observed in dilute colloidal suspensions in viscoelastic fluids. The colloid absorbance decreased over time, indicating the particle distribution changed due to the shear flow. Moreover, empirical collision efficiencies were introduced to describe the aggregate processes quantitatively. Suspensions in various media were also studied to evaluate the effects of the media’s rheological properties.

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Research Program Highlights

Solid-Liquid Systems

Professor Peter Scales

The range of research applications and problems in terms of new materials, process optimisation, new process development and the understanding of surface adsorption and interfacial molecular transfer issues continue to grow. The core research themes in the Solid-Liquid Systems program are:• Minerals - Processing and Materials• Controlled Porous Structures• Suspension Rheology• Surface Forces and Spectroscopy

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Minerals - Processing and Materials

Research Staff Professor George Franks Professor Greg Qiao Professor Peter Scales Professor Geoff Stevens

Dr Rackel San Nicolas Dr Carolina Tallon

Research Students Emma Brisson Alireza Kashani Silvia Leo Paul Mignone Sima Mohammadnejad Wei Sung Ng Samuel Pinches Brant Walkley Michael Wang

CollaborationsAustralian Defence Apparel (ADA), Australia

Dr Ian CrouchAustralian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Australia

Dr Lyndon Edwards Mr Sam Moricca Dr Daniel Riley

BAE Systems, Australia Mr James Whiteford

CSIRO, Australia Mr Warren Bruckard Dr Elizabeta Forbes Dr Aaron Seeber Mr Nigel Stone

Georgia Tech, USA Professor David Sholl

Defence Science and Technology Organization (DSTO), Australia Dr Ross Antoniou Dr Michael Ling Dr Sonya Slater Dr John Thornton Dr Chris Woods

Ian Wark Research Institute, Australia Professor Jonas Addai-Mensah Associate Professor David Beattie Dr Marta Krasowska Professor Bill Skinner

Okayama University, Japan Associate Professor Jun Oshitani

SCG Energia, USA Dr Juan Inga

Swinburne University of Technology, Australia Professor Chris Berndt

The University of Melbourne, Australia Dr Marc Antoine-Sani Dr Luke Connal Dr Gabriel da Silva Associate Professor Trevor Finlayson Dr Rackel San Nicolas Professor Peter Lee Vee Sin

The University of Sheffield Dr Susan Bernal Mr Rupert Myers Professor John Provis

The University of Warwick Dr John Hanna Dr Greg Rees

University of California, Santa Barbara, USA Dr McLean Echlin Professor Tresa Pollock

University of Queensland, Australia Professor Michael Smart

Victorian Centre for Advanced Materials Manufacturing (VCAMM), Australia Mr James Sandlin Mr Stuart Thomas

Zeobond Pty. Ltd., Australia Dr Peter Duxson Professor Jannie van Deventer

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Project Updates

Temperature responsive polymers to aid the flotation of sulphide fines

Emma Brisson, Elizaveta Forbes, Luke Connal, George Franks

Fine particles in the flotation of ores are problematic; in addition to causing problems such as sliming, fines are too small to attach to air bubbles in the flotation process, causing valuable fines to be lost as gangue. The use of temperature responsive polymers to flocculate and float fines has been demonstrated to be a viable solution to this problem. Temperature responsive polymers become hydrophobic with the addition of heat, thus enabling hydrophobic flocculation of the coated particles which can be floated as aggregates. Polymers with charged groups are common in flotation circuits as they can adsorb selectively to surfaces with opposite charge, most often found in oxide systems. The development of this temperature responsive floc-flotation technology becomes problematic when the flotation of fine sulphide minerals is considered because the surface of the sulphide changes chemically with time, making the selective adsorption of the polymer to its surface difficult. There is then a need to make polymers that are temperature responsive and that contain sulphide collectors to direct the adsorption of these polymers to the desired mineral surface. The aim of this work is to synthesise these collector-containing-polymers and then study adsorbed layers to determine the optimal density of the collector group functionality as well any effect the collectors have on the inter-particle interactions and flotability of coated particles.

Colloidal processing of difficult-to-densify ceramics

Silvia Leo, Carolina Tallon, George Franks

Boride and carbide-based ceramics have attracted many potential applications under extreme conditions. However, the applications of these materials are limited by the difficulty in processing them into dense and complex-shapes. This project aims to understand the processing and densification behaviour of boride and carbide-based ceramics, in particular for zirconium diboride (ZrB2) and boron carbide (B4C) prepared by

colloidal powder processing. Using this processing method, ZrB2 or B4C powder was processed into well dispersed and stable suspensions, minimising the presence of powder aggregates which could lead to flaws and defects in the final material. These well-dispersed suspensions were then cast into compacts with homogenous microstructure and high packing density using the slip casting technique.

The densification study of these materials was conducted under different firing conditions (temperature, time and heating rate) to obtain product with the highest final density possible. The incorporation and roles of small amounts (less than 5 wt%) of second phases to aid the densification of ZrB2 and B4C were also investigated in this work. The competition between pore elimination and grain growth mainly controls the final density achievable.

In addition, near-net shape objects were produced using the freeze casting technique. The influence of the suspension solids concentration and freezing temperature were investigated. This technique allows for a shorter moulding time compared to slip casting and can be possibly automated for mass production.

Microstructural and mechanical modelling of multiphase materials: A case study on copper-infiltrated tungsten (W-Cu) composites

Paul Mignone, George Franks, Daniel Riley, Peter Vee Sin Lee, Trevor Finlayson

Current and future cutting-edge technologies will place demands on components that cannot be met by a single material or alloy. These technologies require materials with heterogeneous composite microstructures, as they can potentially provide the most favourable properties from both metals and ceramics. Bi-continuous, copper-infiltrated tungsten (W-Cu) is a candidate material for ultra-high temperature applications however little is understood about how its microstructure influences performance under loading. This is partly due to difficulties in capturing and digitising the W-Cu microstructure with X-ray tomography due to the highly dense tungsten phase. Instead, a novel tribeam

serial sectioning method has been used in collaboration with colleagues at the University of California, Santa Barbara, USA.

The investigation presents both experimental and analytical methods in obtaining a 3D W-Cu microstructure for finite element analysis. The investigation looks at determining the correct representative volume of W-Cu for mechanical simulations, as well as the effect of porosity on its mechanical properties. The elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio are the primary mechanical properties modelled. It is hoped that these methods can be used to determine the suitability of future bi-continuous composites under mechanical loading.

Novel temperature-responsive polymers as selective flocculants and collectors

Wei Sung Ng, George Franks, Luke Connal, Elizaveta Forbes

The worldwide exhaustion of rich ore sources of valuable metals such as copper, nickel, and gold has prompted a shift to low-grade deposits, which necessitate the use of finer grinding to liberate the desired minerals from the unwanted gangue. However, the presence of fine particles below 20 μm is detrimental for froth flotation, which is the most common mineral separation technique. Entrainment, streamline effects and slime coatings result in a loss of selectivity and hence recovery. Current alternatives such as selective flocculation are inadequate, with severe disadvantages and narrow applications. A novel approach is the use of temperature-responsive polymers, such as poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) (PNIPAM), which undergo a reversible hydrophilic-to-hydrophobic transition when heated above a lower critical solution temperature (LCST). Above the LCST, PNIPAM is able to aggregate the fine valuables into larger sizes, and provide a hydrophobic surface suitable for recovery in flotation. Below the LCST, PNIPAM is highly soluble and can disperse the particles. The missing piece is selectivity for the desired mineral, a gap to be filled with this research. This project aims to synthesise a temperature-responsive polymer as a selective flocculant and collector, and optimise the performance through flotation studies,

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with different polymers for sulfide and oxide ores. The success of this research will have a stimulating effect on the minerals industry, increasing production and reducing waste. Additionally, the multiple functionality of the polymer can reduce operational costs by reducing reagent consumptions. The replacement of hazardous flotation reagents with these environmentally-friendly and non-hazardous polymers also alleviates a significant safety issue.

Near-net shaping of dense advanced ceramics by freeze casting

Samuel Pinches, George Franks, Carolina Tallon

The characteristic properties of ceramic materials, such as their high temperature and thermal shock resistance, are desirable traits for many applications. Often, operation at high temperatures results in increased efficiencies for engines, while high temperature components are required to enable development of hypersonic vehicles. However, the use of ceramics in engineering applications is often hindered by both the intrinsic brittle failure and low fracture toughness of these materials, as well as the high cost incurred by diamond milling to obtain complex shaped product components. This project is to investigate freeze-casting as one possible avenue to obtain complex ceramic components at a lower cost when compared with other production methods. This work continues on from previous work into obtaining dense freeze cast (DFC) components by this method, with a focus on reducing defects in, and improving the properties of, the final products. Precise temperature monitoring and control throughout the process is expected to allow greater control of the final product microstructure while minimising macro defects. Subsequently, this project plans to investigate MAX phase ceramics, to determine the compatibility of the optimised DFC methods developed with these materials. MAX phases are a family of ceramic materials with a layered crystal structure that results in these materials possessing a desirable combination of both ceramic-like and metal-like properties, such as excellent chemical resistance and good toughness at high temperatures. The development of a low-cost process for dense, complex

shaped MAX phase and other advanced ceramics via DFC will reduce the barriers for using these materials commercially in mass produced components which may, in turn, enable the development of novel applications using these materials.

Advanced ceramics development for defence applications: Near-net-shape dense and multi-scale porosity ceramics

Carolina Tallon, George Franks

In recent years ceramics have become the first choice of material for many defence applications, due to their potential to withstand extreme operating conditions (extremely high impact, temperature, mechanical and acoustic loads in a very short period of time) as well as their low density. Our research is focused on understanding the surface behaviour and interaction forces of ceramic particles in suspension, in order to develop and design the suitable microstructure (from fully dense ceramic materials to high porosity ceramic foams) and tailor the properties of the final component in order to survive those extreme conditions. The use of near-net-shaping colloidal techniques provides the versatility to prepare complex geometry ceramic bulk pieces as well as ceramic coatings and linings assembled with other materials to manufacture multiphase components as required by most of these defence applications. The work is supported by the Australian Defence Materials Technology Centre.

More recently, we have been developing multi-scale porosity ceramic materials for ultra-high temperature insulation combining different processing techniques. The high porosity ceramic materials exhibit porosities up to 93%, with a mixture of pore types and shapes in the macro and micro scale have been characterised using SEM, X-ray tomography, thermal conductivity and mechanical testing measurements. The experimental results have been used to validate the thermal and mechanical modelling of the properties of these materials using a 3D reconstruction of the actual material microstructure. This modelling will allow the prediction of the ceramic materials properties and performance under extreme conditions, and consequently, tailor the design of

the materials microstructure. This work has been supported by the Asian Office of Aerospace Research Development (AOARD) and US Air Force.

Understanding geopolymers through synthetic gel systems

Brant Walkley, John Provis, Rackel San Nicolas, Jannie van Deventer

Geopolymers are formed by mixing solid aluminosilicate precursors such as fly ash (FA), granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS) or metakaolin with an alkali activating solution, forming a solid binder with similar properties to Portland Cement (PC). Geopolymers offer an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to PC, and also provide an avenue for utilisation of industrial waste materials such as FA or GBFS.

Geopolymer use in industry is not yet widespread due to difficulties controlling reproducibility in performance and stoichiometry of phases formed in these systems. This is, in part, due to an incomplete understanding of the thermodynamic relationships and reaction kinetics governing geopolymerisation. If we are to develop further understanding of these relationships, the stoichiometry of the precursor materials and alkali activator must be controlled.

This study develops a method for synthesis of stoichiometrically controlled reactive nanopowders via a novel solution polymerisation method utilising polyethylene glycol to sterically inhibit the movement of precursor cations. These nanopowders were subsequently activated with sodium silicate to form geopolymers. Analysis by advanced characterisation techniques shows that the stoichiometrically controlled geopolymers constitute a chemically simplified model system through which FA and GBFS geopolymers can be studied.

This work provides a platform for study of the role of key cations involved in geopolymer formation and their effect on the composition, structure and properties of the hardened binder. Understanding of these governing principles will enable development of innovative technologies to mitigate the remaining durability issues associated with geopolymers, as well as aiding the development of performance based standards.

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Controlled Porous Structures

Research Staff Professor Frank Caruso Associate Professor Rachel Caruso Professor Dave Dunstan Associate Professor Michelle Gee Professor Sandra Kentish Dr Kathryn Mumford Associate Professor Andrea O’Connor Professor Greg Qiao Professor Geoff Stevens Professor Paul Webley

Dr Nadja Bertleff Dr Tejas Bhatelia Dr Julia Braunger Dr Maryline Chee Kimling Dr Dehong Chen Dr George Chen Dr Kwun Lun (Jacky) Cho Dr Jiwei Cui Dr Yunlu Dai Dr Qiang Fu Dr Paul Gurr Dr Ming Hu Dr Shinji Kanehashi Dr Katharina Ladewig Dr Andrew Lee Dr Judy Lee Dr Andy Leung Dr Josephine Lim Dr Markus Müllner Dr Nathan Nicholas Dr Lydia Ong Dr Berkay Ozcelik Dr Yuan (Tony) Ping Dr Emma Prime Dr Colin Scholes Dr Jin Shang Dr Ranjeet Singh Dr Kathryn Smith Dr Georgina Such Dr Adrian Sulistio Dr Huanli Sun Dr Phong Tran Dr Edgar Hoe Hon Wong Dr Penny Xiao Dr Yan (Annie) Yan

Alita Aguiar Jeffri Gouw Indrawan Marloes Kamphuis Jenny Tran

Research Students Hirra Azher

Elham Bidram Gorgaby Dhee Biswas

Mattias Björnmalm Stephan Burger

Lu Cao Cesar Castaneda Xi (Cathy) Chen

Qiong Dai David Danaci

Yasmina Dkhissi Hongzhan Di Sarah Dodds

Matt Faria Ben Freidman Katelyn Gause Sook Jin Goh

Sylvia Gunawan Dunying Gu Junling Guo Andri Halim

Steven Harris Wibowo Armineh Hassanvand

Yingdian He Timothy Henderson

Guoping Hu Javad Jafari

Yi Ju Kezia Kezia Jinguk Kim Shu Lam Yiqun Li Kang Liang Samantha Lichter Hiep Lu Junchao Ma Brian Maring Nirmal Mathew Tom McKenzie William McMaster Nouman Rafique Mirza Seyed Farshad Motevalizadeh Sinn-Yao (Kenneth) Ng Ka Leo Noi Augustine Ntiamoah Natalita Nursam Paul Osborne David Parris Nasim Pour Kaiyuan Qin Md. Arifur Rahim Jing Ming Ren Joseph Jacob Richardson Erwin Rodriguez-Tolava Joel Scofield Philipp Senn Steven Shirbin Danzi Song Tom Statham Tomoya Suma Jeannie Tan Willie Tang Blaise Tardy Hendy Thee Claire Tindal Nicolin Tirtaatmadja Martin van Koeverden Zhexing Wang Hao Wei Alessia Weiss Ida Widnersson Wu-Qiang Wu Yue Wu Ke Xie Joel Yong Xueying Zhang Zhou Zhang Qinghu Zhao

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CollaborationsAnatomics, Australia

Mr Andrew Batty

Australian Antarctic Division, Australia Dr Ian Snape

Bionics Institute, Australia Dr James Fallon Professor Rob Shepherd

Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Australia Dr Christoph Hagemeyer Dr Tom Karagiannis

Cornell University, USA Professor Ulrich Wiesner

CSIRO, Australia Dr Anand Bhatt Dr David Haylock Dr Patrick Hartley Dr Anita Hill Dr Anthony Hollenkamp Dr Danielle Kennedy Dr Louis Kyratzis Dr Phil Martin Dr Keith McLean Dr Yen Truong Dr Xingdong Wang Dr Fang Xia

Dairy Innovation Australia Dr Mike Weeks

Kanazawa Institute of Technology, Japan Professor Yu Komatsu

Macquarie University, Australia Dr Damian Gore

Mars Petcare, Australia Dr Brad Woonton

Monash University, Australia Associate Professor Ben Boyd Professor Alan Chaffee Professor Yi-Bing Cheng Dr Fuzhi Huang Dr Angus Johnston Dr Zhe Liu Professor Christopher Porter Professor Huanting Wang

MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, UK Professor Clare Blackburn

Northeastern University, China Mr Jianghua Ling

O’Brien Institute, Australia Dr Keren Abberton Dr Karl Brown Dr Heidi Debels Dr Geraldine Mitchell Professor Wayne Morrison Mr Jason Palmer

Philipps-Universität Marburg, Germany Professor Dr Wolfgang Parak

RMIT University, Australia Dr Xuehua Zhang

Royal Children’s Hospital, Australia Professor Anthony Penington

Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia Associate Professor Mark Daniell

SungKyunKwan University, Korea Associate Professor Pil Jin Yoo

The University of Melbourne, Australia Professor Peter Cook Professor Edmund Crampin Professor Ralf Haese Ms Dianna Hocking Professor Stephen Kent Associate Professor Peter Lee Vee Sin Professor Gordon Lynch Dr Gregory Martin Dr Kate Murphy Associate Professor Neil O’Brien-Simpson Professor David Solomon Professor Alastair Stewart

The University of Warwick, UK Dr Kristian Kempe

Tsinghua University, China Professor Weiyang Fei Dr Xinglei Zhao

University College Dublin, Ireland Professor Kenneth Dawson

University of Bath, UK Dr Valeska Ting

University of Delaware, USA Professor Stanley Sandler

University of Miyazaki, Japan Professor Yoshinari Baba

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Project Updates

Carbon dioxide separations

Reactive barrier formation for CO2 leakage mitigation

Cesar Castaneda, Geoff Stevens, Ralf Haese

One of the main purposes of CO2 sequestration is to keep CO2 underground in a safe and permanent environment. However, it is possible that unwanted CO2 migrates from the geological containment due to different leakage pathways. These pathways could occur in aged wells in undetected high-porosity zones or in pre-existing or induced fractures by geomechanical forces. This work evaluates different possibilities of materials and techniques that may seal or avoid leakage of CO2. Some materials such as cements and geopolymers can be used to remediate leakage from wells. Other substances such as gels and foams have been suggested for the remediation of leaks. However, most of these materials are not suitable for sealing, since they have a high viscosity and do not flow easily underground. Thus, the main focus of this study is to develop a procedure that can be applied in deep subsurface systems and is able to stop the CO2 leakage. The proposed technique is based on the use of an aqueous solution as a reactant, which in contact with CO2 reacts chemically producing a precipitate that fills fractures and pores and stops the leakage. Reactions of CO2-rich water in contact with injected silica- or calcium-rich brine are modelled simulating anticipated geochemical reactions in case of a leakage scenario. This will also inform future laboratory-based experiments.

CO2 capture from natural gas: Development of adsorbents and accompanying processes

David Danaci, Ranjeet Singh, Penny Xiao, Paul Webley

The work undertaken on dual cation zeolites was discontinued, as our results showed that our desired effect was not controllable and a different approach to tailor the adsorption kinetics of CO2 and CH4 was then investigated. The new approach involves a core-shell zeolite material, whereby a zeolite with high CO2 capacity is encapsulated within a zeolite with slow CH4 diffusion, in theory enabling good CO2/CH4 separation as well as having a high capacity. Work is currently

being undertaken on improving the outer shell of the particles, as we have not yet been able to devise a shell without cracks.

The work regarding hydrophobic adsorbents is drawing to a close, and fluorinated zeolite materials were synthesised with a significant reduction in water uptake. Optimum synthesis conditions were also determined; however, binary adsorption data between CO2 and H2O is required in order to give an ultimate conclusion on the success of these materials. While completing the previous work on ZIFs -8, -14 and -71, interesting behaviour was observed with regard to the temperature dependant adsorption properties of these materials. Work was started to investigate the adsorption properties over a range of temperatures and gases to investigate this in depth. A commercial carbon adsorbent was obtained from the manufacturer, and work is scheduled to investigate the adsorption properties for CO2/CH4 separation in 2015.

Tuning flexibility in zinc metal-organic frameworks: Synthesis, structure and gas adsorption properties

Yingdian He, Jin Shang, Ranjeet Singh, Paul Webley

The last decade has witnessed intensive studies on gas adsorption and separation using flexible metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as they offer a myriad of materials design opportunities based on their high porosity and unique structural flexibility. However, rational design of novel flexible MOFs and tuning their structural flexibility constitute challenges in the field. We are investigating the flexibility of tuning in a rigid layer-pillared MOF by replacing the rigid pillar ligand with a flexible substitution. The MOF materials are solvothermally synthesised and characterised by multiple techniques. The novel flexible MOF is highly crystalline and thermally stable up to 200°C in air. Interestingly, the crystal structure is responsive to external stimuli (pressure and temperature). We observed temperature dependent reversible crystal phase transformations by in situ synchrotron PXRD study, which indicates the intrinsic dynamic of the structure. The CO2 and CH4 sorption measurements of the material exhibit typical step isotherms with very large hysteresis for the flexible MOFs families. The reversible structural transformations upon inclusion of CO2

molecules and exclusion were confirmed by in situ synchrotron PXRD depending on CO2 pressure. Importantly, the sorption experiment results show that it adsorbs substantial CO2 of 75.5cm3/g at 195K but negligible N2 at 77K under atmospheric pressure, which might indicate the molecular sieving effect for the narrow pore (NP) phase of the material. Moreover, it selectively adsorbs CO2 over CH4 and N2 at room temperature, making it a promising candidate for carbon capture. This simple strategy of converting rigid MOFs to flexible structure could shed light on development of novel flexible MOFs structures to enhance gas separation performance.

Understanding the kinetics of carbon dioxide absorption

Guoping Hu, Nathan Nicholas, Sandra Kentish, Geoff Stevens

Carbon dioxide emission is recognised as a significant driver for climate change. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is an efficient and effective way to significantly reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Before CCS can be deployed on a large scale, the cost of capture needs to be reduced (currently 0.03-0.09 US$/kWh). Several methods for capturing carbon dioxide such as absorption, adsorption, membrane, cryogenic separation and the combination of some of these techniques have been proposed, of which absorption is the most promising method for industrial utilisation today.

Solvents (including monoethanolamine, ammonium, amino acid salts, ionic liquids, and their blends) have been used for carbon dioxide absorption research for a long time. However, there are still some difficulties for their industrialisation. Potassium carbonate is another good solvent for carbon dioxide capture because of its low regeneration energy, low degradation and corrosion. A shortcoming of potassium carbonate is its slow kinetics. The most efficient method for improving absorption kinetics is adding promoters like amines, arsenate, amino acids, boric acid, carbonic anhydrase and vanadium. Current promoters are not attractive as they exhibit certain undesirable qualities, such as poor performance, high cost and high toxicity. This project is focused on studying the performance of more efficient, environmentally friendly, economically acceptable promoters.

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Development of CO2 selective ultra-thin film composite membranes via CAP nanotechnology for industrial use

Jinguk Kim, Qiang Fu, Sandra Kentish, Greg Qiao

The overall cost of carbon capture and storage is dominated by the carbon dioxide (CO2) capture step due to the low CO2 partial pressure (13 v/v%) and the large gas volume (11,000 tonne CO2/day) released from a typical coal fired power plant. Therefore, many efforts have been made to reduce the cost of CO2 capture. To cope with the massive flux of flue gas, new membrane materials have been investigated with high CO2 permeability and CO2/N2 selectivity. However, there is a gap to be filled between industrial demand and research outcomes. It is proposed in the literature that a CO2 permeance over 1000 GPU (1 GPU = 10-6 cm3 cm-2 sec-1 cmHg-1) and a CO2/N2 selectivity over 20 is required for the CO2 separation membranes to satisfy cost-effective CO2 capture in industrial practice. Otherwise, a large membrane surface or highly compressed feed gases are required to achieve the necessary CO2 flowrates.

This research focuses on the preparation of ultra-thin film composite membranes consisting of an ultra-thin selective film (< 100 nm) and a highly permeable gutter layer deposited onto a porous substrate. The selective layer is fabricated by a recently developed nanotechnology, namely the continuous assembly of polymers (CAP). The new approach allows the fabrication of surface-confined and cross-linked selective layers with the thickness controlled at the nano-scale. Consequently, we improved the CO2 permeance by the reduction of the membrane thickness and achieve impressive CO2/N2 selectivity with hybrid nanoparticles, leading to economical CO2 capture with high gas productivity.

The impact of water on the performance of cellulose acetate membrane for CO2 separation

Hiep Lu, Colin Scholes, Shinji Kanehashi, Sandra Kentish

Dense cellulose triacetate (CTA) membranes have been widely utilised in industrial gas separation processes. The commercial readiness as well as the competitive gas separation performance makes CTA an ideal candidate in capturing carbon dioxide (CO2). One of the typical challenges in membrane separation is the presence of water vapour, in either industrial gas processing streams or flue gases. Although the

manufacture of membrane modules for CTA is well developed, the effect of water vapour, including the decline of membrane performance by plasticisation, clustering as well as competitive sorption, is still not fully understood. In addition, the accelerating demand of brown coal in the global electricity market will also result in flue gases that are contaminated with saturated water at different pH depending on actual processes.

This study develops a review of the impact of water on CTA in both membrane permeation and sorption kinetics. The study investigates the impact of water at pH3, pH7 and pH12.8 on the performance of CTA membrane, including the kinetic sorption, gas separation performance and chemostability. It is found that the existence of highly alkaline conditions decomposes the original membrane structure and thus increases the membrane diffusivity and solubility. The study suggested that it is necessary to reduce the direct contact between high alkaline condition to membrane unit by improving the membrane pre-treament stages and/or developing alternative membrane modules.

CO2 capture using deep eutectic solvents (DESs)

Nouman Rafique Mirza, Nathan Nicholas, Geoff Stevens

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are novel solvents having multiple applications. Advantages of these solvents lie in their ability to be biodegradable, non-toxic in nature, non-flammable, having negligible vapour pressure, low price and easy manufacturing with high purity. To develop thermodynamic models involving these solvents, their critical properties have to be estimated. To achieve this, a combination of modified Lydersen-Joback-Reid method and Lee-Kesler’s mixing rules has been applied to estimate the critical properties of 33 different deep eutectic solvents. Normal boiling temperatures and acentric factors have also been determined. The accuracy of the method has been tested by making independent estimates of densities (based upon estimated critical properties) and comparing these with published literature values. Deviation from 0.0% to 15.3% has been observed for estimated density values. An overall absolute deviation of 4.4% is observed for the whole range of studied DESs. Maximum deviation is observed when DESs contain one or more aromatic components. The method gives satisfactory results for deep eutectic solvents resulting from different molar ratios of same precursors. It also takes

into account the temperature variation of estimated densities and gives reasonable results. Experiments on vapour-liquid equilibria (VLE) of various DESs-CO2 systems are also being conducted in the laboratory, which would enable the determination of Henry’s constant.

Study of advanced vacuum swing adsorption cycles for CO2 capture from post-combustion flue gas streams

Augustine Ntiamoah, Jianghua Ling, Penny Xiao, Paul Webley

Among the technologies that are under development to control CO2 emissions from flue gas streams is the pressure/vacuum swing adsorption (PSA/VSA) technology. Efforts are currently being made to improve on adsorbents and process cycles to achieve more efficient and cost-effective separations. We have designed and experimentally tested several advanced vacuum swing adsorption cycles for post-combustion CO2 capture using zeolite 13x, a commercial adsorbent and our newly developed experimental PSA/VSA rig consisting of 4 adsorber columns. Product streams containing 85-95% CO2 at recovery rates ranging from 60-75% have been obtained using a relatively high desorption pressure of 8 kPa. Average power consumption for the various cycles is around 0.3 MJ/kg CO2, which is lower in comparison with many reported values in the literature. Simulations have also been performed using the commercial Aspen adsorption simulator to help in the analysis of the experimental results.

Investigation of sustainability of bioenergy with CCS (BECCS) as a CO2 removal technology

Nasim Pour, Paul Webley, Peter Cook

Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) is a CO2 removal technology in which biomass takes CO2 from the atmosphere during photosynthesis. When the biomass undergoes the processes to release its energy the CO2 produced is sequestered, transported and stored in geological formation. In this way, a negative flow of CO2 from the atmosphere to subsurface is established.

In many climate models without BECCS, achieving the 350-450 ppm atmospheric CO2 target by 2100 would not be possible. However, there are some concerns regarding BECCS. For instance, biomass is a limited resource and large-scale exploitation might lead to competition over productive

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lands with food production. If it is not planned in sustainable way, it could cause significant deforestation, food scarcity and loss in biodiversity. Likewise, the CCS process involves technical and environmental complications especially in the storage step. Thus, if BECSS cannot assure sustainable resource and storage it cannot be an eligible option for CO2 mitigation. Moreover, economic viability, compatibility with social welfare and equity, and supportive regulatory framework to facilitate its large-scale deployment are necessary in order to make BECCS a realistic CO2 mitigation option. This project aims to investigate the potential of BECCS deployment as a CO2 removal technology within a sustainable framework.

Development of novel polymeric membranes for CO2 capture

Joel Scofield, Sandra Kentish, Greg Qiao

Thin film composite (TFC) membranes containing polymeric selective layers have been investigated for their carbon dioxide (CO2) separation performance as a potential technology for carbon capture and storage (CCS). Optimisation of the membrane performance through the addition of polymeric additives has demonstrated improved membrane fluxes while maintaining selectivity towards CO2 which will ultimately lead to reduced separation costs.

Block copolymers are one class of membrane materials being investigated. Polymers containing ethylene oxide segments have shown good separation due to favorable interactions between the CO2 and the ether oxide moieties. Traditionally a hard segment has been introduced to provide mechanical strength for stable membrane layer formation however more recently block copolymer additives containing a PEG selective component and a highly permeable component such as PDMS or fluorinated components have been combined with a rigid PEBAX matrix. Block copolymers containing PEG provide compatibility between the highly permeable segments of the block copolymer and the hard PEBAX matrix.

A range of different block copolymers have been incorporated into TFC membrane active layers containing up to 60-70 wt% of the additive. Block copolymers containing PEG and either PDMS or a fluorinated component were synthesised and blended with a matrix to form membranes which showed increases of up to 250% and 400% in the CO2 flux, with moderate drops in the CO2/N2

selectivity. Additional star-like microgel additives are being studied to investigate the impact of polymer morphology on gas separation performance while having the benefit of being able to be synthesised on an industrial scale.

Low cost oxygen production by swing pressure adsorption with oxygen selection absorbents

Willie Tang, Ranjeet Singh, Penny Xiao, Paul A. Webley

The separation of air has conventionally been achieved by the cryogenic liquefaction and distillation of air into its component fractions. However, this technology is very energy intensive and costly. For small-scale on-site applications, adsorption processes provide a more cost effective alternative for oxygen and nitrogen gas requirements. Currently, nitrogen selective adsorbents, such as zeolites, are employed for this separation. As atmospheric air contains four times more nitrogen than oxygen, the current research aims to develop oxygen selective adsorbents to improve the efficiency of adsorption-based air separation processes. This can also lead to smaller adsorption systems producing similar throughputs. Iron and cobalt porous organic polymers made up of porphyrin building blocks were synthesised, characterised and evaluated. At ambient temperatures, the polymers showed oxygen selectivity (up to 1.3). The selectivity of the cobalt polymer was shown to increase by increasing the cobalt content in the polymer. At cryogenic temperatures, both the oxygen selectivity and capacity were improved significantly (up to 14.7) as nitrogen gas experienced a molecular sieving effect. This was attributed to the shrinking of the pores to below the kinetic diameter of a nitrogen molecule (3.64 Å) but still allowing oxygen molecules (3.46 Å) to enter the structure. Most significantly, repeated adsorption-desorption cycling showed the oxygen uptakes by these polymers were fully reversible. There is scope to increase the cobalt content in the polymers to improve the oxygen selectivity for ambient temperature applications. Process simulations showed adsorption systems using these polymers are able to achieve an oxygen stream up to 98% purity.

Rate based modelling of precipitating absorption columns in carbon capture

Yue Wu, Kathryn Mumford, Sandra Kentish, Geoff Stevens

The use of potassium carbonate (K2CO3) solvent in carbon dioxide (CO2) capture processes, for removing CO2 from flue gases in coal-fired power plants, has gained momentum in recent years. CO2 absorption efficiency can be improved by using higher K2CO3 concentration, and simultaneously the precipitation of potassium bicarbonate (KHCO3) at higher K2CO3 concentration will reduce the solvent circulation rate thus lowering the cost on solvent regeneration equipment and regeneration energy. The concentration of K2CO3 solvent has been limited to below 30 wt% by industry to avoid the precipitation during the CO2 capture process. While the kinetics in low K2CO3 concentration has been studied extensively using experimental and numerical techniques, studies of high K2CO3 concentration with precipitation have drawn more attention recently.

This study conducts a review of high K2CO3 concentration based CO2 absorption processes, along with a kinetics study on the KHCO3 precipitating process including crystal nucleation rate and growth rate. In addition, modelling and simulation of CO2 capture based on high concentration of K2CO3 solvent has been investigated and studied using an electrolyte non-random two liquid (ENRTL) model on the CO2-K2CO3-KHCO3-H2O Vapour-Solid-Liquid-Equilibrium (VSLE) system. The model and simulation could further support the use of a high concentration of K2CO3 based solvent system with a range of promoters.

Polymer metal-organic framework composite structure for CO2 capture applications

Ke Xie, Qiang Fu, Greg Qiao, Paul Webley

Metal-organic frameworks (MOF) are good candidates for gas separation due to their molecular sieving properties and high thermal stability. MOFs are cast into membranes (MOF membranes) or blended with polymer matrix to produce mixed-matrix membranes (MMM). Neither of these techniques is optimal as the resultant membranes can have poor mechanical strength, defect-prone features and processing difficulties.

In this study, the amino-functionalised MOF (UiO-66-NH2) and the bromide functionalised MOF (UiO-66-Br) nanometric crystals (30~50 nm) were successfully prepared and characterised

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by XPS, XRD, TGA, SEM and TEM. UiO-66-Br was used to initiate the polymerisation of polyethylene glycol acrylate (PEGA) via atom transfer radical polymerisation (ATRP), resulting in a MOF composite. We could control the grafting density and the degree of polymerisation of PEGA by carefully tuning the feed ratio of PEGA and UiO-66-Br in the ATRP process. The resultant composites were characterised by XPS, XRD, DLS, TGA, SEM and TEM. All these results indicated the successful preparation of polymer-MOF composites with tuneable morphology. In future work, CO2 sorption measurements (compared with light gases like CH4 or N2) will be performed to reveal the CO2 capture capability of the membrane.

The fabrication of thin films on hollow fibre membrane contactors for promoting the absorption of carbon dioxide

Joel Yong, Sandra Kentish, Frank Caruso

Membrane contactor operations make use of a hydrophobic membrane as a barrier between a gas phase and a liquid phase during the gas-liquid absorption of CO2. The CO2 in the gas phase diffuses through the pores of the membrane into the liquid solvent and can then be carried away for stripping and purification. However, current membranes face serious issues with pore wetting which significantly reduces the rate of CO2 mass transfer. Previous studies have shown that a monolayer chemical adsorption of carbonic anhydrase (CA) onto membrane contactor surfaces can enhance the CO2 absorption activity significantly. We have developed a technique to fabricate a thin film containing CA in multilayers on top of a porous flat sheet membrane through layer-by-layer (LbL) electrostatic adsorption. This LbL technique creates a thin dense film on the membrane surface, which increases the hydrophilicity of the membrane but reduces the overall surface pore size significantly. Therefore, the pore wetting tendencies of the membrane change after LbL treatment. We are in the process of investigating the effectiveness of the thin films on hollow fibre membrane contactors for CO2 absorption.

Gas diffusion in molecular trapdoor zeolite

Xueying Zhang, Jin Shang, Paul Webley

The study of gas diffusion in zeolites is of great significance because of its broad applications in catalysis and gas separation processes. Previous researchers have applied both macroscopic and

microscopic experimental techniques to investigate transport and self-diffusion in zeolites. In addition, recent years have also seen theoretical methods such as kinetic Monte Carlo, molecular dynamics and transition-state theory adopted in the understanding of gas-zeolite interaction. Earlier works have illustrated that factors such as zeolite topology, adsorbate shape, concentration and temperature would all affect the diffusion process.

This study focuses on gas diffusion in a typical molecular trapdoor zeolite (chabazite; CHA) using combined experimental and computational methods. By tuning parameters such as the Si/Al ratio, cation type and experimental conditions, we expect to understand the diffusive properties of different gas species in CHA channels. In addition, computer simulation will be applied to the fundamental probing of interactions between the gas molecules and zeolite framework. Several models will be formulated to describe the energetic heterogeneity of CHA and its influence on gas diffusion and separation. By comparing experimental results with simulation data, we will narrow down the key parameters during diffusion and thus pave the road for improved separation kinetics in CHA.

Electrical swing adsorption: A low energy option for carbon dioxide capture

Qinghu Zhao, Penny Xiao, Paul Webley

Compared with conventional temperature swing adsorption (TSA), electric swing adsorption (ESA), as an emerging CO2 capture technology, has certain advantages including shorter regeneration time, and higher adsorbent regeneration efficiency. In this project we will investigate the electrical swing process using novel metal-organic framework materials. As part of the project we will develop complete ESA models with the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and use these models to predict and understand the effect of voltage, current, electric power, electrification time, and flow rate of feed gas on CO2 capture efficiency. In our preliminary simulations, we have found that the distribution of fluid velocity of feed gas in the channels of monolith parabolic, which will degrade CO2 capture efficiency. Geometric factors, reactor shape and channel distribution of the monolith will therefore need to be considered. Finally, we will develop new ESA cycles for a specific adsorbent according to different conditions for different industrial applications.

Photocatalytic and energy storage applications As technology grows ever more rapidly, more powerful energy storage devices are necessary to accommodate the ever-increasing energy requirement.

Monodisperse titania microspheres featuring high-temperature stability and large pore size are efficient photocatalysts

Lu Cao, Rachel Caruso

Titania (TiO2) is amongst the most widely investigated semiconductor materials for photocatalytic applications. The most photoactive polymorph, anatase, is metastable and can be readily transformed to the thermodynamically stable, less photoactive, rutile at temperatures of 500-700 °C. This restricts the use of titania photocatalysts for some applications (e.g. self-cleaning or antibacterial coatings on ceramic substrates) that need to be processed at high temperatures (≥800 °C). A spherical morphology is regarded as the optimal material morphology for forming a uniform compact coating layer on substrates because microspheres have a high packing density as well as good particle mobility, thereby resulting in high and reproducible performance. Moreover, the presence of large pores in the catalyst can facilitate efficient separation of photogenerated charge carriers, high light harvesting and fast mass diffusion, thus benefiting photocatalytic performance. A facile route for the synthesis of monodisperse anatase titania microspheres with high-thermal stability (up to 900 °C) and large pore size (77 nm) has been demonstrated by combining sol-gel and solvothermal treatment processes. The high-temperature stable anatase spheres show remarkable activity for the photodegradation of methylene blue, an organic dye, under UV light irradiation compared to P25 (a benchmarked photocatalyst) thermally treated at the same temperature.

Solid-state thin film solar cells on flexible polymer substrates

Yasmina Dkhissi, Rachel Caruso

To meet the world’s ever-growing energy needs while facing current environmental challenges, solid-state thin film solar cells offer a low-cost renewable alternative for generating electricity. Constructing efficient flexible photovoltaics on plastic substrates remains difficult due to the substrates intrinsic low-temperature limitation. In the past year, attention has been drawn towards photovoltaics

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utilising inorganic-organic perovskites, an emerging technology with recently reported efficiencies rivalling existing commercial solar cell technologies. Nevertheless, the majority of these devices constructed on glass employ a high temperature processed inorganic layer (≥500 °C), non-compatible with flexible applications. In this regard, a method to produce efficient and reproducible perovskite solar cells on plastic substrates has been developed, with the entire device fabrication process conducted at 150 °C or below. Power conversion efficiencies over 13% have been attained for small flexible devices, with an average efficiency of 11.8 ± 1.8%. In addition, practical industrial concerns such as the stability and the manufacturing processability of these devices are currently under investigation.

Engineering electrochromic materials for multifunctional smart windows Yiqun Li, Rachel CarusoThis project focuses on electrochromic materials for multifunctional smart windows that can undergo reversible changes in optical properties upon application of a low voltage. The aim is to incorporate antireflective properties, multiple states (windows can be in dark state, transparent state, translucent state, or mirror state) and precise control of the solar spectrum. TiO2 will be studied first with an emphasis on its antireflective properties. To achieve antireflectivity, a gradient in the refractive index of the prepared film is significant. Therefore, anatase TiO2 nanowires and rutile TiO2 nanoarrays have been grown directly onto FTO substrates. The morphology of the wire or array, and the thickness of the film can be controlled by the synthesis conditions, such as temperature, time, Ti concentration and pH. Transmittance has increased with the addition of the films on the FTO substrate, with the arrays giving better results than the nanowires. This improvement is believed to be due to the nanoarrays being more ordered than nanowires. The electrochromic properties of these films will be tested and additional structures and materials will be studied to optimise the properties required for the smart window application.

Porous titania-based materials and their high-throughput photocatalytic screening for environmental remediationNatalita Nursam, Xingdong Wang, Rachel CarusoTitanium dioxide or titania is a material of considerable interest in the field of

environmental remediation due to its abundance, non-toxicity and tuneable properties. Although titania exhibits much functionality, the high rate of charge carrier recombination, the wide bandgap (~3.2 eV) that renders it inactive under visible light, and the separation of titania nanoparticles from the reaction medium, have limited its full potential, particularly under solar irradiation. This study aims to develop methods to fabricate porous titania-based materials with high photocatalytic performance and visible light activity through combined doping and templating synthesis, followed by a high-throughput photocatalytic evaluation developed in-house. Doping with non-metal elements is carried out using the sol-gel method to alter the chemical properties of titania, thereby expanding the absorption range towards visible light, which constitutes at least 40% of the solar spectrum. Additionally, the incorporation of porosity into immobilised titania thin-films and monoliths with large geometrical surface, provides both enhanced accessibility of the pollutant towards the active sites and simplifies photocatalyst separation from the liquid phase. The effect of diverse porous morphology on the photocatalytic activity of doped titania is also studied in detail. By using a high-throughput approach, the screening process can be accelerated and the material showing the highest photocatalytic activity can be acquired more rapidly. Therefore, the understanding of the relation between materials structure/composition and photocatalytic activity can be achieved in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Titanium base oxides as anode for lithium ion batteries (LIB)

Erwin Rodriguez-Tolava, Rachel Caruso, Anthony Hollenkamp, Dehong Chen

Currently most small portable gadgets use lithium ion batteries (LIB) due to their high specific energy and high energy density. However, to apply this energy technology in larger devices, such as electric cars, safety and life-span issues must be resolved. Safety can be improved using higher potential materials, such as titanium oxide anodes. It is known that hierarchical mesoporous structures can enhance the rate capability and improve the energy density. In this research, monodisperse mesoporous titania beads with different structural properties were synthesised by a hydrothermal process, and the influence of bead diameter, pore diameter, annealing temperature and carbon content on the electrochemical performance was investigated. High surface area, small

primary particle size and optimal sintering conditions improved the rate capability. Additionally, Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) material was hydrothermally synthesised as mesoporous particles with high surface area and narrow pore diameter distribution. The thermal transformation was followed by in situ high temperature X-ray diffraction and thermal analysis to obtain an optimal annealing temperature giving high LTO performance. The unit cell of the intermediate lithium hydrous titanate changed with the Li/Ti ratio, leading to a different composition of the final LTO. The optimal Li4Ti5O12 material delivered a high current rate capability and high cyclability over 2500 cycles due to the stable mesoporous structure. The titania and LTO mesoporous materials demonstrated properties with good potential for LIBs.

Low temperature synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticlesJeannie Tan, Xingdong Wang, Rachel CarusoTitanium dioxide (TiO2) nanomaterials have received significant attention since their commercial production in the early 20th century, due to numerous applications as photocatalysts, pigments, photovoltaic electrodes, and gas sensors, among others. TiO2 synthesised via the sol-gel method conventionally starts with an alkoxide, which undergoes both hydrolysis and condensation processes, to form an amorphous TiO2. The amorphous titania phase is photocatalytically inactive, hence conversion to crystallised TiO2 by calcination at temperatures of 400°C or above is necessary. Calcination, however, can diminish some of the TiO2 characteristics that are essential for the photocatalytic reaction. For example, surface area is decreased as a result of increasing crystal size, and the number of hydroxyl groups is decreased after the calcination. Therefore, fabrication of TiO2 at low temperature is important to preserve the large surface area and the hydroxyl groups on the TiO2, and to minimise the industrial production cost. This project is developing low temperature TiO2 fabrication processes and correlating the final material properties to the activity of the TiO2 in photocatalytic reactions.

Mesoporous yolk-shell TiO2 microspheres for advanced lithium ion batteryHao Wei, Dehong Chen, Lu Cao, Anand Bhatt, Rachel CarusoFuture generations of rechargeable lithium ion batteries are required to

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supply portable electronic devices (smart phones, laptop computers etc.), store power from renewable sources and as a vital component in new hybrid electric vehicles. To achieve higher energy and power density to meet the future challenges of energy storage, new materials, especially new nanomaterials, are critical. We must improve methods to develop new nanomaterials with unique properties, for applications of electrodes in lithium batteries. The crystal structure of TiO2(B) (space group C2/m) is composed of edge- and corner-sharing TiO6 octahedra that form perovskite-like windows between sites, which leads to facile lithium ion intercalation. We succeeded to synthesise mesoporous yolk-shell TiO2 microspheres as an anode material for lithium ion battery. Both anatase core and TiO2(B) shells are crystalline and show high porosity in the meso scale. Comparing to pristine mesoporous anastase microspheres, the TiO2(B) layer constructed by nanocrystallisation should compensate for the poor reversibility capacity at higher voltage (> 1.5 V) of the inner anatase core.

3D dendritic anatase TiO2 nanowire thin films for high-performance perovskite solar cells

Wu-Qiang Wu, Dehong Chen, Rachel Caruso

In recent years, a novel organic-inorganic hybrid photovoltaic technology, which uses organometal halide perovskite compounds (i.e. CH3NH3PbI3) as light absorbers, has emerged as a serious contender in low-cost solution-processed solar energy technologies. In this project, a facile one-step hydrothermal process has been developed to fabricate thin arrays of branched anatase TiO2 nanowires for perovskite solar cells with a champion power conversion efficiency of 14.21%. The thickness of the nanowire film, controlled between 120 nm and 4 μm, affects the nucleation and growth of the perovskite crystals, leading to different light harvesting efficiencies and thus overall power conversion efficiency. The hydrothermal treatment time affects the density of the TiO2 nanowires on the transparent conductive oxide (TCO) substrate, with high coverage improving light harvesting and charge collection.

The present work shows that the hydrothermal technique is very promising for preparing high quality, uniform metal oxide thin films on TCO substrates. The as-prepared nanowire thin film exhibited excellent optical, electrical and electrochemical properties, making it

attractive for potential application in thin film optoelectronics, including solid-state perovskite solar cells, electrochromic smart windows and other energy storage and conversion devices.

Biological ApplicationsNon-toxic cancer therapies

Elham Bidram, Dave Dunstan, Alastair Stewart

In order to minimise the side effects of common cancer therapies, this project aims to study cancer treatment using over-expressed receptors to explore some strategies which do not use cytotoxic agents to stop cancer cells from proliferating. Synthesised polymeric networks using two different ligands have been tested in 3 different cancerous cell lines. These studies show some positive results regarding toxicity. We also studied the auto photoluminescence of the networks in a cellular environment using that as an imaging carrier.

A combined gas templating and phase separation approach towards soft tissue engineering scaffolds

Dhee Biswas, Phong Tran, Carolina Tallon, Andrea O’Connor

The field of tissue engineering has taken on the challenging task of regenerating organs, now appreciating the immense biological, chemical and physical complexity faced. Porous hydrogel scaffolds are frequently used to support cells and direct regeneration in vivo. However lack of vascularisation and frequent colonisation by opportunistic pathogens, amongst other issues, have limited the widespread use of such scaffolds. To mitigate some of the challenges of vascularisation, a novel gas templating approach coupled with phase separation has been developed which can be employed to control pore sizes of biocompatible chitosan scaffolds in the hundreds of microns size range. The advantage of using such a technique is that it avoids the use of harmful organic solvents which are detrimental towards cells and difficult to remove. Nanoparticles that can kill or inhibit drug resistant bacterial growth upon implantation have also been developed and currently the loading and release of these nanoparticles within the polymeric scaffolds are being investigated. In the future such scaffolds with controlled pore architecture and antimicrobial properties may be used towards regenerating skin tissue damaged by burns, abrasion or

diabetic ulcers.

Drug delivery particles and microfluidics

Mattias Björnmalm, Yan Yan, Frank Caruso

Drug delivery can be used to improve the safety and efficacy of a therapeutic agent. The development of new and improved particle-based drug delivery systems depends on the capacity to precisely engineer particles with well-controlled biological interactions. As the human body is highly complex and dynamic, this remains challenging. Through microfluidics, spatiotemporally well-controlled microenvironments can be made and maintained. This enables the engineering of models mimicking new aspects of an in vivo environment. In the current project, microfluidic devices are used to evaluate the behaviour of engineered polymer particles under dynamic conditions. This includes the behaviour of particles in constricted flows as well as their interactions with cells under flow. Combined with the templated assembly technique by which a set of particles with various chemical composition, size and surface charge can be generated, these microfluidic assays will be used to probe the factors governing the biological performance of engineered particles. Such knowledge is paramount for the development of the next generation of drug delivery particles.

Differential roles of shape in the cellular processing of colloidal polyelectrolyte-coated particles and polyelectrolyte capsules by monocyte cells and macrophage cellsXi Chen, Yan Yan, Frank CarusoNanostructures fabricated with tailored shapes have received much attention due to their distinctive interaction with biological systems. In this work, we demonstrate the differential cellular processing of shape-controlled nanostructures by monocytes and macrophages. Polyelectrolyte-coated particles and polyelectrolyte capsules with three different shapes (spherical, short-rod, and long-rod) were engineered via layer-by-layer assembly on shape-controlled silica particle templates. The effect of shape of both polyelectrolyte-coated particles and polyelectrolyte capsules on cellular processing (including association, internalisation, viability, cytokine secretion, and phagocytosis) by human monocytic cells (THP-1) and their differentiated macrophage-like cells (dTHP-1) was investigated. The experimental results revealed that

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differently shaped structures differentially impact the cellular processing of particles and capsules by different cell lines, which provides mechanistic guidance on how shape could be manipulated in delivery systems to evaluate the specific interaction between nanostructures and cells.

Influence of protein coronas on extracellular and intracellular dynamics of polymeric particles Qiong Dai, Yan Yan, Frank CarusoNanoengineered polymeric particles functionalised with targeting molecules have been investigated for their potential as smart carrier systems with enhanced targeting selectivity and specificity over the past few decades. It has been shown that the formation of protein coronas has high impacts on the surface properties and the targeting ability of the functionalised polymeric particles. Thus, it is of high importance to study the influence of protein coronas on the targeting ability of the functionalised particles in more detail. This project aims to investigate the formation of protein coronas in variable biological environments and the effects of these various coronas on the physicochemical properties, the extracellular selectivity and specificity, and the intracellular fate of the functionalised polymeric particles. Results are expected to provide useful information for the design of next generation drug delivery systems with higher targeting and delivery abilities, avoiding negative effects and exploiting beneficial properties/components of the protein coronas.

Nanoparticle dosimetry predictionMatt Faria, Jiwei Cui, Edmund Crampin, Frank CarusoDetermining the affinity of a nanoparticle for a cell is an important step in characterising the biological activity of that nanoparticle. This is usually determined in vitro by incubating cells with a solution of particles and then measuring cellular association or uptake. Comparing these measurements for different particle types is desirable. Unfortunately, it does not make sense to compare them directly, as the physical properties of the system can lead to substantially different amounts of particles being presented to the cell. For instance, consider a solution with particles that sediment rapidly compared to a well-dispersed colloidal suspension

of particles. Clearly, if incubated in vitro with cells at the bottom of a well, the former solution will sediment onto the cells and a greater percentage of particles will be presented. This is recognised as a problem in the field, but attempts to characterise, control for, or model these effects are rare. We are building computational models using partial differential equations to predict bulk movement of particles in solution. This will allow us to predict the presentation of particles to cells based on their physical properties, and by extension, to control for these physical effects and compare different particles. We currently incorporate the physical effects of a sphere moving in fluid, but this work provides a framework to investigate and include additional parameters, such as electrostatic interactions and variations due to cell type.

Engineering immunogenic protein antigen particles for vaccine deliveryKatelyn Gause, Yan Yan, Neil O’Brien-Simpson, Frank CarusoAdvances in immunology have led to important discoveries of molecules that can stimulate protective immunity against various diseases including cancer and infectious diseases. However, the translation of these individual components into effective vaccines remains an important challenge in vaccine research. Although many particle-based delivery systems that can simultaneously deliver antigens and immunostimulatory molecules have shown great promise for eliciting effective immunity, a significant knowledge gap still exists in the rational design of particulate systems for optimised efficacy. The current project, with an overarching aim to design a novel class of protein antigen particles for vaccination, is primarily focused on uncovering key parameters of the particles that govern antigen presentation and thus activation of adaptive immunity. By choosing a highly tunable, mesoporous particle-templating technique, a series of protein particles with different redox states have been generated. Our studies have shown that these protein particles enhance immunological responses compared with the free soluble protein, and protein degradation kinetics that are tightly controlled by the protein density via the redox state profoundly impact the efficiency of antigen presentation and T cell activation. This knowledge is pivotal to efforts of the next stage of rational development of particle vaccines.

Fabrication of bioartificial cryogels based on core cross-linked star polymers for biomedical applicationsDunyin Gu, Katharina Ladewig, Andrea O’Connor, Greg Qiao, David Haylock, Keith McleanHydrogels broadly consisting of highly hydrated polymer networks have found extensive applications in tissue engineering, cell culture and drug delivery in recent years. However, they still suffer from a variety of challenges, such as weak mechanical strength, primarily due to a low concentration of load-bearing polymer cross-links, low cellular attachment because of the polymers’ biological inertness and absence of inherent biodegradation mechanisms. To address these challenges in a single system, this project aims to engineer bioartificial hydrogel matrices based on core cross-linked star polymers, where hydrophobic nano-domains can be incorporated to load hydrophobic drugs as well as to improve the bulk mechanical properties of the hydrogel. Functional peptide sequences favouring cellular adhesion and protease cleavable bonds can also be introduced. In addition, a cryogelling technique will be employed to form and control the porous morphology of the hydrogel to enable cellular infiltration and interaction. The robust macroporous hydrogel system aims to be capable of mimicking the biological, biomechanical and biochemical cues cells experience during tissue development, delivering hydrophilic or hydrophobic drugs simultaneously and specifically on cellular demand, and undergoing degradation specifically upon receiving certain biological stimuli.

Nanoengineered, bioresponsive polymer carriers for therapeutic applicationsSylvia Gunawan, Georgina Such, Frank CarusoThe design of therapeutic delivery systems has been an emerging research field, particularly in developing intelligent carriers with targeting capabilities and triggered release mechanism. Such carriers would improve the current drug delivery system by incorporating specific components tailored for controlled cargo release and/or carrier degradation kinetics. The project focuses on the engineering of enzyme-responsive polymer carriers through the layer-by-layer (LbL) or mesoporous silica templating assembly technique. These

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systems exploit the innate properties of engineered peptides and (bio)polymers as the driving force for carrier assembly and disassembly. The distinct biological microenvironments, such as pH gradients and the presence of specific enzyme, are utilised as specific biological triggers for inducing the cargo release and/or carrier degradation, only at the region of interests.

Macro-porous cryogels for soft tissue engineeringTimothy Henderson, Katharina Ladewig, Andrea O’Connor, Keith McLean, David Haylock

Macro-porous hydrogels are promising candidates for many cell culture and tissue engineering applications by virtue of a number of physical and chemical properties that closely resemble the extra-cellular matrix, including gel-like mechanical properties and plausible biochemical composition. Chemically crosslinked cryogels are a unique type of macro-porous hydrogels that are formed below the solvent melting point. The resulting gels are highly porous with inherently interconnected pores. Recent work has focused on the development and application of hyaluronic acid cryogels for soft tissue engineering. Hyaluronic acid is a major component of the extracellular matrix and a highly favourable biomaterial for use in cell culture and tissue engineering applications. We have investigated the suitability of these gels for soft tissue regeneration via a number of in vitro cell culture studies showing significant promise.

Magnetic manipulation of cells for soft tissue engineering

Javad Jafari, Phong Tran, Andrea O’Connor

Challenges can arise in the application of scaffolds in tissue engineering due to issues including inflammatory reactions caused by the biomaterials or their degradation products. In addition, the rate and extent of cell migration and vascularisation may not be adequate, and cell-cell interactions in hetero-culture may be lacking, especially in large constructs. Recently, some studies have aimed to use scaffold-free tissue engineering approaches to address these issues. One such approach is the use of magnetic particles to label and thereby

manipulate cells by application of an external magnetic field. In this study, 3T3 fibroblast and 3T3-L1 preadipocyte cells were labelled with functionalised magnetic microparticles to investigate the potential of using magnetic manipulation for soft tissue engineering. A cytotoxicity study showed differences in the cells’ sensitivity to the presence of the magnetic particles. The particles did not adversely affect the proliferation of fibroblasts but a degree of cytotoxicity was observed for preadipocyte cells at higher magnetic particle loadings. By using an external magnetic field, these labelled cells were also able to be manipulated and cultured in desired patterns.

SNAPPing bacteria with peptide stars

Shu Jie Lam, Neil O’Brien-Simpson, Greg Qiao

Antibiotic resistance in bacteria has reached alarming levels in many parts of the world, whereby common infections in some settings have become refractory to available treatment options. Despite the focus on more well-known Gram-positive superbugs such as the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Gram-negative bacteria have been recently recognised as a more pressing issue caused by the lack of effective and biocompatible drugs. The dearth of candidates to combat Gram-negative bacteria is possibly attributed to the fact that Gram-negative microbes might be harder to kill than Gram-positive bacteria as a result of the presence of an outer membrane layer and additional resistance mechanisms. Furthermore, most antimicrobial agents exhibit selective activity only towards certain Gram-negative bacterial species, or demonstrate high toxicity towards mammalian cells. This work focuses on the development of star-shaped polypeptides, synthesised via cost-effective polymerisation techniques, as antimicrobial agents that have efficacy against a broad range of clinically-relevant Gram-negative pathogens, while displaying negligible haemolytic and cytotoxic activity. The polypeptide-bacteria interactions are investigated using fluorescence and electron microscopy. It is envisioned that this study may advance the field of antibiotic development and hence contribute towards the fight against infections caused by antibiotic resistant bacteria.

Biomaterial porous networks of hydroxyapatite and titanium dioxide

William McMaster, Rachel Caruso

A critical size bone defect requires filling with a biomaterial scaffold in order to heal. In situ delivery of medicinal drugs may aid healing, but current drug delivery vehicles (DDVs) lack control over targeted delivery and release. Porous networks of hydroxyapatite (HA) or anatase titanium dioxide (TiO2) could be utilised as biomaterial scaffolds or DDVs. Four different sponges were used as templates for open-cell HA networks. Two concentrations of sol-gel precursor were employed; high concentration obscured the template structure in the final network. The choice of template, multiple sol-gel coating, and the rate of temperature increase during calcination led to evolution of the HA fibre surface. All final networks were HA, but other calcium species were present as well.

One alternative to HA is TiO2. Using sol-gel chemistry, a collagen gel template and solvothermal treatment, high surface area TiO2 networks composed of mesoporous fibres were fabricated. The morphological transition from the collagen to TiO2 network structures, and various solvothermal fluid compositions were explored. Solvothermal treatment and calcination time altered the fibre morphology and influenced the surface area, mesopore diameter and total pore volume. Selected TiO2 networks were studied for possible biomedical applications. Biomineralisation took place in a simulated body fluid: Apatite growth indicated in vitro bioactivity, but high surface area may affect sustained biomineralisation. Ibuprofen drug delivery was monitored by two methods, with a maximum loading of 58.9 mg g-1. Ibuprofen could be stored in mesopores, with drug release modelled as a sustained diffusion mechanism.

Fabrication of pH-responsive nano-gated mesoporous silica by selective functionalisation

Kaiyuan Qin, Michelle Gee, Andrea O’Connor

Templated mesoporous silicas are synthetic materials with uniform pores in the range of 2-50 nm. The studies of mesoporous silicas utilised in bio-systems have been widely developed due to their uniform pore sizes, high surface areas and pore volumes and relevant sizes for

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macromolecules. Introducing plenty of functional groups onto the surface of mesoporous silicas could enable diverse potential applications of these materials, for example, catalysis, drug delivery and protein separation.

The potential applications of functional silicas are somewhat limited by the low selectivity of functionalisation. It can be desirable to immobilise functional groups selectively only on the exterior or interior surfaces of silicas to control the pore structure and complement potential size selectivity of adsorption in the pores. This study therefore attempts to selectively functionalise the exterior surface of mesoporous silicas by blocking the pores with a polysaccharide. Gas sorption analysis shows the interior surface of silicas can be protected by polysaccharide after a sugar filling procedure and be deprotected after sugar extraction to enable selective functionalisation.

In this study FDU-12 silica is employed since it has uniformly sized pore entrances and large cage sizes and well interconnected structure. A pH-responsive reversible DNA-based structure is employed as a nano-gate on the pore entrances of FDU-12 to control the accessibility of these pores. In addition, imidazole groups are immobilised onto interior surfaces to enhance its performance as adsorbent. This work develops a novel method to selectively functionalise silicas which enables the fabrication of nano-gated FDU-12. This material will have potential utility in bio-molecule separation and drug delivery.

Smart, engineered polymer vehicles for therapeutic delivery

Ka (Leo) Noi, Kristian Kempe, Frank Caruso

Advanced nanoparticles and nanocarriers have been of intense interest for the past decade as they promise to revolutionise the field of medicine. Nanoparticles assembled via the layer-by-layer (LbL) deposition technique have been demonstrated as a promising system for drug and gene delivery. However, the relationship between particle properties, including size, shape, surface chemistry and mechanical properties, and its influence on interaction with cells in a biological setting is under-researched. In this regard, a well-understood model polymer, thiol-modified poly(methacrylic acid) (PMASH) has been used to fabricate layer-by-layer capsules to gain an in-depth understanding of size-dependent cellular interactions. LbL PMASH capsules

with diameters ranging in size from 100 nm to 1 μm, in conjunction with multiple model cell lines of different biological and physiological functions are being utilised to investigate the effect of size on cellular association, uptake and the internalisation pathway. Size-dependent formation of protein corona and its composition is also of interest.

Peripheral nerve stimulation for treatment of chronic neuropathic pain

Philipp Senn, James Fallon, Rob Shepherd, Frank Caruso

Neuropathic pain is a chronic health condition with a severe impact on the quality of life of affected patients. The condition is often difficult to manage and refractory to traditional pain treatment strategies such as pharmacological management, physiotherapy and psychological therapy. Peripheral nerve stimulation has been proposed as an alternative treatment with numerous successful clinical reports. Nevertheless, the systematic understanding of the underlying mechanism of action is still limited. Efficacy studies in the form of randomised controlled trials have predominantly been conducted for occipital nerve stimulation to treat various headache conditions. Without trials of a wide range of neuropathic conditions, the commercial availability of approved medical devices is limited. This project developed a peripheral nerve stimulation system for small-scale clinical trials that will be used to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of pain modulation. Design features of electrode arrays and new stimulation strategies will be tested in order to facilitate the development of advanced clinical peripheral nerve stimulation systems.

Understanding shape effects of polymeric microparticles in vivo

Danzi Song, Yan Yan, Markus Mullner, Prof Frank Caruso

The development of drug carriers that have long circulation time in the bloodstream after parenteral administration is often highly desired in drug development as it reduces dosing intervals and improves patient compliance. Polymeric capsules with a core composed of drug have been suggested as promising drug carriers especially for cancer chemotherapy. The preparation and cellular interactions of the capsules, specifically with a spherical

shape, have been well studied. However polymeric capsules with elongated or alternate shapes e.g. rod have yet to be assessed in vivo. Preliminary in vitro experiments indicate that such structural modifications exhibit reduced macrophage uptake, more specific targeting to tissues and reduced degradation under simulated conditions. Therefore, it will be anticipated that these observations will translate to enhanced circulation in vivo and that modulation of microcapsule properties will in turn modulate the pharmacokinetic behaviour of the capsules. We propose in this study to assess the role of microcapsule properties on the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution will be evaluated to enable a rational selection of microcapsule structure for future development. Different delivery routes will also be deployed to examine the potential design aspects.

Engineering pH-cleavable protein particles with recoverable protein functionality

Tomoya Suma, Jiwei Cui, Markus Müllner, Frank Caruso

The highly developed and diverse functionality of proteins has attracted intense interest in exploiting proteins as building blocks for drug delivery carriers as well as therapeutic agents. Various strategies have emerged, such as spray drying or coacervation, to produce nano and microparticle formulations of proteins with precisely tuned size, shape, and surface functionality. The preparation of protein particles commonly involves cross-linking to prevent particle instability and disassembly into constituent proteins. Current cross-linking strategies usually leave permanent chemical modifications resulting in compromised protein activity or adverse side effects. In this study, we developed a strategy to assemble proteins into size-tunable and stable particles that can be readily disassembled via a physiologically relevant acidic pH as well as within cells after internalisation. Notably, the aforementioned limitations can be overcome by designing a reversible cross-linker based on maleic acid amide chemistry, which frees the proteins in their pristine state, resulting in minimal retardation of protein functionality. The modularity, the triggered intracellular disassembly and the recoverable functionality of proteins provide considerable potential for this approach in biomedical applications including drug and vaccine delivery.

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The effect of impact loadings on the mechanical properties of chondrocytes

Zhexing Wang, Andrea O’Connor, Peter Vee Sin Lee, Geoff Stevens

In this research, we focused on single cell mechanics and how impact loads on cartilage tissue can affect the properties of chondrocytes, and whether any effects are load related. The micropipette aspiration technique was the main method used to study single cell mechanics, in which the surface of a cell is aspirated into a small glass tube and by analysing the deformation and force response of the cell its mechanical properties can be calculated.

The results of our study showed that both of the elastic and viscoelastic properties of chondrocytes from impacted cartilage are significantly different from those of the control group. Fluorescently labelled F-actin images of chondrocytes from impacted and control groups were analysed by imageJ software and Matlab-based image-processing functions. The results showed the F-actin fluorescence intensity from the impacted group is significantly higher than that from the control group, which indicated that cytoskeletal properties could be altered by the impact injury.

Zwitterionic replica particles for drug deliveryAlessia Weiss, Markus Müllner, Frank CarusoSmall polymeric particles exhibiting protein resistance are of interest in diverse areas, ranging from biomedical applications, like drug delivery systems, to marine coatings. In this study, functional zwitterionic replica particles are synthesised via surface-initiated polymerisation in mesoporous silica templates. Subsequent core removal leads to discrete polymer particles. A main advantage of this method is the ability to synthesise monodisperse and excellent non-fouling particles which include abundant functional groups for ligand immobilisation. Zwitterionic materials such as poly(methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) (PMPC), poly(carboxybetain methacrylate) (PCBMA) and poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) (PSBMA) are highly resistant to non-specific protein adsorption, even from undiluted blood plasma and serum and bacterial adhesion. Furthermore, they exhibit very low association to human cancer cells (below 5%) which renders those charge-neutral polymer materials a modular and versatile

class of highly functional carriers with potential applications in drug delivery.

Ion-exchange and bioseparation technologyUnderstanding and predicting controlled nutrient release and adsorption phenomena in the presence and absence of biofilm: Implications for hydrocarbon degradationBen Freidman, Kathryn Mumford, Sally Gras, Geoff StevensPermeable reactive barriers (PRBs) have shown to be an effective technology for the in situ remediation of hydrocarbon contaminated groundwater. However, our understanding as to the influence of biofilm on adsorption and ion exchange processes remains limited. Improving this understanding and development of permeable ‘bioreactive’ barriers is the focus of current research in collaboration with the Australian Antarctic Division.Nutrient delivery is crucial for the development of bioreactive media, with controlled release nutrient (CRN) sources potentially enhancing microbial activity and biodegradation within PRBs. Granular nutrient materials, for insertion into PRBs, have been examined across batch and column studies with findings indicating that CRN materials maintain their slow release patterns under freeze-thaw cycling. This research was extended to the examination of biofilm formation on PRB media and it was found that ammonium conditioned zeolite exhibited significantly higher biofilm density than non-conditioned zeolite in the presence of Antarctic soil spiked with Special Antarctic Blend diesel. These findings suggest that CRN materials and biofilm formation on zeolite may enhance biodegradation and extend the longevity of the PRB. Analysis of hydrocarbon data in early 2015 will confirm biodegradation potential.Installation of a PRB to monitor microbial activity and biodegradation was undertaken at a hydrocarbon contaminated site on sub-Antarctic Macquarie Island during November 2014. This field trial will assist in further delineating the differences between microbial communities in soils and PRBs and how this influences biodegradation in soils and groundwater.

Capacitive deionisation as a novel approach to wastewater treatmentArmineh Hassanvand, Sandra Kentish, Paul WebleyCapacitive deionisation (CDI) is an energy-efficient and promising electrochemical

desalination technology, especially for low salinity brackish water. In CDI, the influent stream passes between two high-capacitive electrodes made of porous carbon materials to which an electrical voltage is applied. As a result, anions and cations are adsorbed on the porous surface of the oppositely charged electrode, and a deionised stream with lower ion concentration flows out of the cell. Ion electrosorption is based on the formation of electrical double layers (EDLs) inside the pores of the electrodes. After a time of operation, the electrodes become saturated and require regeneration. In this step, by reducing or even reversing the cell voltage, adsorbed ions are released into a wastewater.

Although CDI has attracted attention since the mid-1990s, there are still some unresolved issues that need to be addressed, including insufficient interrogation of the influence of governing variables, pH fluctuation during adsorption and desorption and ion selectivity of the electrodes. Therefore, in this study, following constructing of a bench scale CDI unit, we are aiming to (i) investigate the rate controlling variables including applied voltage and inlet salt concentration, (ii) further understand the reasons behind pH fluctuation through studying the surface properties, and (iii) evaluate the performance of CDI in removal of different ions especially calcium. Finally this project will develop ion transport model to predict the salt removal efficiency. A thorough model that accounts for multivalent ions and high salt concentrations has not been reported yet in the literature. Significant goals of this work are to lead to an all-embracing understanding of this technique and enable us to predict its performance in the treatment of real brackish water samples.

Development of contaminant removal system suitable for implementation in cold regions

Junchao Ma, Kathryn Mumford, Geoff Stevens

Environmental contamination is a legacy at pioneering scientific research stations in Antarctica and other cold regions. Hydrocarbon and heavy metal contaminants are commonly both present at these sites. Constrained by quarantine, slow kinetics and potentially detrimental freeze thaw cycling; remediation methods must be cost effective, suitable for construction and monitoring in logistically challenging locations and result in minimal environmental disturbance.

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There are currently limited proven methods that are appropriate for soil or water remediation in these cold climates. Permeable reactive barriers are an in situ technology that has shown great promise for passive water treatment. Building on this potential, permeable reactive barriers are being developed as a standalone or supporting technique for remediation in cold regions. Present research is focused on development of new more effective materials to be used in PRB, with field studies at Casey Station, laboratory experiments and modelling. This work is done in conjunction with the Australian Antarctic Division and Macquarie University.

Granular zero-valent iron for in situ remediation of Antarctic contaminated sites Tom Statham, Kathryn Mumford, Geoff StevensZero-valent iron was assessed as a medium for phosphorus and heavy metal removal in sequenced PRBs. The kinetics, mechanism and freeze-thaw stability of iron were investigated using copper and zinc as model contaminants in a series of experiments and associated Matlab and geochemical modelling. Results suggested that granular zero-valent iron is an appropriate medium for use in freezing ground, however a trial PRB installed at Casey Station, Antarctica resulted in non-ideal flow during the second year of operation.

A fundamental study of skim milk ultrafiltration

Sinn-Yao (Kenneth) Ng, Dave Dunstan, Gregory Martin

The Australian dairy industry is the third largest rural industry in Australia, with a vast portion of its revenue contributed by value-added dairy products such as cheese and powder products. Skim milk ultrafiltration (UF) is a key unit operation in the manufacturing process in which milk proteins are concentrated. Filtration holds several advantages over conventional thermal separation/concentration methods – it is less energy intensive, and allows the preservation of milk’s functional, nutritional and sensory qualities. Unfortunately, filtration performance is severely impacted by concentration polarisation (CP), i.e. the accumulation of retained solutes at the membrane surface, as well as membrane fouling. CP is typically mitigated by operating at higher flow rates, but incurs additional pumping energy requirements. Chemical cleaning effectively removes

fouling, but interrupts operation, reduces membrane life and increases water and chemical consumption.

To date, CP and fouling are still poorly understood due the complex physicochemical nature of milk. The aim of this project is to develop a fundamental understanding of the physicochemical processes that contribute to flux decline in skim milk UF, which will enable us to optimise filtration performance. Previously we investigated the influence of operating conditions (temperature, pressure, cross-flow, feed concentration) on flux resistances layers. Current work is focused on examining the effect of altering physicochemical properties of skim milk on flux decline behaviour. The experimental data generated will also be used in assisting the development of a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model for predicting filtration performance.

This project is carried out in collaboration with Dairy Innovation Australia Limited (DIAL).

Nanostructured interfaces and materialsManipulation of size, composition and structural order at the nanoscale allows the directed fabrication of materials with functional properties. This tailoring of properties is finding use in innovative materials for chemical engineering, pharmaceutical and biological applications where the demand is for greater structural and compositional complexity. To deliver such products, there exists a need for facile and flexible methods to engineer surface properties.

Synthesis of hierarchically porous materials by the co-micelle/emulsion templating method

Stephan Burger, Michelle Gee, Andrea O’Connor

The synthesis and characterisation of novel porous materials, especially mesoporous materials, has received a significant amount of attention during the past two decades. The co-micelle/emulsion templating (Co-MET) method was recently developed to create hierarchically macro/mesoporous beads. These beads have potential in separation and adsorption processes as well as a support material in biocatalysis due to enhanced diffusion in the macropores while the mesopores provide a high surface area for active sites. In the co-MET synthesis a block copolymer is

used to stabilise an oil emulsion while also forming micelles in the continuous aqueous phase. The aqueous phase also contains tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and acrylamide, which undergo condensation and polymerisation reactions respectively to capture the hierarchical structure of the emulsion and micelles. The organic components are then removed by means of calcination to obtain the porous material. The project focuses on the effect of different synthesis parameters on the material properties to enable the synthesis of a material which can be tailored for a specific application.

Filtration of model colloidal particles

Hongzhan Di, David Dunstan

Membrane technology has been widely employed in the dairy filtration process over the last two decades and has taken a significant place in the manufacturing area of dairy products. In spite of great developments in membrane technology, an important issue, membrane fouling, still remains. With the presence of membrane fouling, permeate flux decreases severely during filtration making the process less efficient and more costly. A new methodology has been developed in this project to directly visualise the fouling process on membrane surfaces. To simplify the fouling process, this project utilises a model colloidal system. Fluorescent latex particles are used to model casein micelles, the main fouling component in milk. The filtration process is operated in a microfluidic device made by PDMS and with the help of confocal microscope the fouling process can be directly observed and recorded in real time.

Engineering multifunctional capsules through the assembly of metal–phenolic networks

Junling Guo, Frank Caruso

Metal-organic coordination materials are of widespread interest because of the coupled benefits of inorganic and organic building blocks. These materials can be assembled into hollow capsules with a range of properties, which include selective permeability, enhanced mechanical/thermal stability and stimuli-responsiveness. Previous studies have primarily focused on the assembly aspects of metal-coordination capsules, however the engineering of metal-specific functionality for capsule design has not been explored. In this study, a library of functional metal-phenolic network (MPN) capsules was prepared.

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The properties of the MPN capsules are determined by the coordinated metals, allowing for control over film thickness, disassembly characteristics and fluorescence behaviour. Furthermore, the functional properties of the MPN capsules were tailored for drug delivery, positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and catalysis. The ability to incorporate multiple metals into MPN capsules demonstrates that a diverse range of functional materials can be generated.

One-step synthesis of particles for controlled drug release

Yi Ju, Jiwei Cui, Frank Caruso

Nanoengineered particles have gained increasing interest due to their application in the drug delivery area. The development of a facile strategy for the preparation of particles via a one-pot strategy was recently published by our group in Science (Ejima, H., et al., Science, 2013, 341, 154). We reported that the utilisation of coordination interactions between metal ions and organic ligands offers an extremely simple and rapid way to prepare metal-polyphenol networks (MPN) via one-step assembly. This project will focus on the functionalisation of these MPN particles with drugs, drug release studies and their interaction with cells.

Membrane filtration for salt concentration and crystallisation

Kezia Kezia, Judy Lee, Sandra Kentish, Mike Weeks

Reducing the discharge volume of industrial saline effluent remains of paramount environmental concern. Membrane filtration is one of the most versatile technologies for concentrating industrial saline effluent yet its performance, such as flow rate and fouling deposition, is greatly compromised with increasing solids concentration. With relevance to the dairy industry, the performance of membrane-distillation (MD) to concentrate saline effluent has been investigated, demonstrating its potential to increase the total solid concentration of industrially generated saline waste up to ± 30 wt %. Additionally, crystallisation of the MD concentrate has been examined at different solid concentrations and temperatures with and without the use of ultrasound. In these experiments, the concentrate consists of ± 24 wt % minerals, predominantly NaCl and ±6 wt % lactose. Calcium phosphate is also

present in small quantities. At these concentrations, crystallisation requires an induction time of around 11hours. With higher solid concentrations (± 30 wt %), the induction time is shortened to 3 hours. Although the major constituents of the mixture are NaCl and lactose, the precipitation time decreases with increasing temperature exhibiting the reverse solubility behaviour of calcium phosphate. This demonstrates that calcium phosphate is the governing compound which determines the overall induction time. Selective precipitation could not be achieved as calcium phosphate crystallisation also leads to precipitation of NaCl and lactose. Nonetheless, since the concentration of NaCl and lactose does not significantly exceed the supersaturation limit, only ±1% of crystal yield can be collected. The induction time can be shortened by introducing ultrasound to the system. With a single-pass process (energy density 16 J/g), the induction time observed is ± 1.15 hours at 50°C compared to 2.9 hours without ultrasound. This time alters little when the energy density is reduced from 16 to 3.7 J/g however the ultrasound cannot shift the equilibrium of the solution or improve the crystal yield. To increase the total yield, a higher level of supersaturation is required, thereby further evaporative concentration is necessary.

Water-soluble stars via aqueous-based controlled radical polymerisation

Tom McKenzie, Edgar Wong, Qiang Fu, David Dunstan, Greg Qiao

Nanotechnology holds great promise for solutions to a range of current challenges in the biomedical field. The use of nano-sized polymeric materials as drug carriers is one such area that has received intense research interest. Our research has led to the development of a synthetic technique capable of generating a range of water-soluble star polymers with core-shell structures using pure water as the polymerisation medium. These structures are a unique class of organic nanoparticles and can be formed rapidly with high yields, allowing for effective screening of different chemical functionalities for desired biological properties. These particles have been shown to be non-toxic even at high polymer concentrations, and with no signs of protein fouling or aggregation. Work on loading of drugs and targeting moieties is currently being conducted. The ability to fine-tune the structural and chemical properties makes these water-

soluble stars versatile candidates for a range of targeted applications.

Surface confined amorphous films from metal coordinated sub-nm aromatic ligands

Md. Arifur Rahim, Frank Caruso

Our efforts to understand metal/phenolic coordination driven self-assembly continue. We have discovered that phenolic ligands containing single aromatic rings with ditopic or monotopic chelating groups are also able to form continuous films on solid surfaces through coordination interactions with metal ions. The limiting factors for ligand (phenolic type) choice with single aromatic ring toward this rapid surface induced coordination-driven assembly have been postulated. Moreover, from a direct comparison between a metal-organic framework (MOF) compound and the films, where the constituent metal-ligand pair is identical in both cases, implied that the films can be recognised as another variant of coordination complexes with irregular and amorphous network as opposed to their crystalline MOF counterparts.

Supramolecular polymers as building blocks for the formation of particles

Blaise Tardy, Frank Caruso

The recent development of synthetic supramolecular polymers has shown promise for enhancing the properties of polymeric materials. Indeed, studies have shown that such materials have significant benefits when compared to conventional, covalently bound polymers. These benefits are due to the ability of supramolecular assemblies to respond to strain or stimuli and to dynamically rearrange their structure in a manner unachievable using conventional, covalently bound polymers. The most promising supramolecular polymers, cyclodextrin (CD)-based polyrotaxanes (PRXs), have only recently emerged as a potential tool to synthetically form dynamic interfaces for applications in the biomedical field. In this work, CD-based PRXs have been used as building blocks to form particles that were rationally designed for developments in drug delivery. Specifically, the properties specific to PRXs have been exploited to design particles with formation, degradation or stimuli-based responses. The unique characteristics of PRXs were found to translate into similarly unique characteristics of the assembled particles.

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Suspension Rheology

Research Staff Professor Raymond Dagastine Professor George Franks Associate Professor Sally Gras Professor Sandra Kentish Professor Peter Scales Dr Anthony Stickland Associate Professor Antoinette Tordesillas

Dr Kithsiri Bandara Dassanayake Dr Konrad Krysiak-Baltyn Dr Shane Usher

Adrian Knight

Research Students Wilhelm Burger Sriharini Chellappan Adam Crust Ashish Kumar Tiara Kusuma Sam Law Sayuri Nadeeka Rubasingha Samuel Skinner Rudolf Spehar Erin Spiden Hui-En Teo Benjamin Yap Qi Zheng

CollaborationsAECOM, Australia

Mr Peter Hillis

ATC Williams, Australia Professor Paul Slatter

Bilfinger, Australia Mr Andrew Hawkey

Dr Francesco Kaswalder

CSIRO, Australia Dr Geoff Dumsday

Dr Phillip Fawell Dr Daniel Lester

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Germany Dr Harald Anlauf Professor Dr -Ing. habil. Hermann Nirschl

La Trobe University, Australia Dr Joseph Tucci

Linkoping University, Sweden Professor Mathais Bostrom

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA Professor Gareth McKinley

Melbourne Water, Australia Dr Mukundan Devadas Dr Brendan Gladman Mr David Gregory Dr Catherine Rees

Monash University, Australia Dr Murray Rudman Dr Rico Tabor

MSACT Consulting, UK Professor Richard Buscall

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Japan Dr Ryohei Seto

Rio Tinto, Australia Dr Geoff Boddy Dr Mark Coghill Dr Ross de Kretser

RMIT University, Australia Dr Nicki Eshtiaghi Dr Daniel Lester

Seoul National University, South Korea Professor Kyung Hyun Ahn

The University of Melbourne, Australia Professor Robin Batterham Dr Gregory Martin Professor Ivan Marusic Professor Paul Mulvaney Professor Lee White

Universidad de Concepción, Chile Dr Pedro Toledo

University of Leeds, UK Dr Timothy Hunter

University of Queensland, Australia Professor Simon Biggs Associate Professor Barry Chiswell Professor Lindsay Sly

Veolia Australia Dr Kathy Northcott

Victoria University, Australia Professor Mikel Duke Professor Stephen Gray

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Project Updates

Phage treatment of wastewater foam

Wilhelm Burger, Konrad Krysiak-Baltyn, Gregory Martin, Peter Scales, Anthony Stickland, Sally Gras

In the activated sludge process for wastewater treatment, filamentous bacteria become dominant under certain operating conditions or feed compositions. Excessive filamentous growth normally results in the formation of stable foam due to the hydrophobic cell walls of these species and their ability to produce surfactants. Foam and solids on the surface of aeration tanks is a common problem encountered at wastewater treatment plants. Some of the current treatment methods involve operating at lower solids retention times, mechanical removal of the foam, and the use of chlorine sprays and chlorination of the return activated sludge line. These methods are not target specific and are mostly not very effective. It is therefore proposed to use target specific bacteriophages to reduce the filamentous bacteria to quantities lower than the foaming threshold.

The project is investigating the feasibility and effectiveness of the use of bacteriophages to treat wastewater foaming while considering its effect on the downstream processing performance. This includes investigating the structural role of the filamentous bacteria in activated sludge flocs, as well as studying the interactions that exist between the phage and floc components.

The implementation of dry stacking operating methods in wastewater treatment drying pans

Sriharini Chellappan, Anthony Stickland, Peter Scales

In wastewater treatment (WWT) plants, drying pans are considered an economical sludge dewatering practice to stabilise and dry sludge through natural sun and wind effects. For large scale treatment plants like those used by Melbourne Water, the use of drying pans can lead to capacity issues with local rainfall affecting the sludge drying rate and reducing operational volume available for sludge management. This presents an opportunity to implement innovative design and operating practices like ‘dry stacking’, originally developed by the minerals industry, with the potential

to provide significant throughput improvements to dewatering processes in sludge treatment. The project will develop fundamental rheological models to predict and optimise dry stacking of WWT sludge. The project will offer recommendations for implementation of the dry stacking practice at Melbourne Water’s Eastern Treatment Plant (ETP) and Western Treatment Plant (WTP). Initial validation of the dry stacking concept for wastewater sludge was tested through various laboratory drying and rheometry tests. In addition to laboratory tests, several full scale trials have been undertaken at WTP to explore effective ways of implementing dry stacking in the existing drying facilities.

Optimisation of thickener performance through incorporation of shear effects

Adam Crust, Peter Scales, Shane Usher

Many industries, particularly mineral processing, employ large scale gravity thickeners to recover water and valuable process liquor while concentrating residue solids. These thickeners are often greater than 40m in diameter and can cost in excess of $10 million to build. Accurate sizing is still a challenge even after 100 years of research. Predictive modelling of gravity thickener performance from experimentally determined material properties has been shown to under predict throughput by a factor of up to 100. The phenomenon of aggregate densification has been proposed to account for some of this discrepancy. Aggregate densification is where flocculated aggregates compact due to shear. This compaction can alter the material properties and hence increase the rate and extent of dewatering.

Aggregate densification characterisation has been conducted via lab scale batch settling experiments and subsequent analysis. The work has streamlined current methods for the characterisation of aggregate densification within a thickener. The results are to be subsequently incorporated into thickener modelling for design and operation. The current thickener model is being modified to embody the research developed within this study. This work aims to provide further insight into aggregate densification and its role within gravity thickening allowing a greater capacity for thickener modelling and prediction, moving into design and operation.

The link between shear rheological behaviour and microstructure of particulate suspensions

Tiara Kusuma, Anthony Stickland, Raymond Dagastine

The rheology of particulate suspensions is of interest to many industries for understanding processing. They commonly have a yield stress, at which a rapid transition from elastic solid to viscous fluid occurs. A continuous interconnected network formed by the particles can withstand an applied force, resulting in elastic solid behaviour. Applying a force exceeding the network strength will cause the suspensions to flow viscously. This behaviour inspired the viscoplastic models with a shear yield stress criterion such as the Bingham fluid. However, there are other phenomena that the current models do not capture such as time and rate-dependent yielding. More thorough microstructural investigation is required to link particle properties and network structures to constitutive models that are able to capture the complex behaviour of suspensions.

A qualitative model combining a new yield criterion, strain energy yielding, with a viscoelastic model is proposed. The model can capture the main aspects of sub-yield viscoelasticity followed by time-dependent yield. Furthermore, a new technique in atomic force microscopy (AFM) is being developed to measure particle-particle friction. Calibration techniques that were selected based on their ease and reliability have been successfully performed to measure forces between two particles in air and liquid environments. The normal and lateral friction between particles will be used in a particle-level simulation to predict the bulk behaviour, which will be compared to shear rheology measurements. The outcome will be the ability to predict suspension shear behaviour from knowledge of particle properties.

Combined shear and compression suspension rheology

Sayuri Nadeeka Rubasingha, Anthony Stickland, Peter Scales

The behaviour of particulate suspensions under the combined effect of shear and compression is of significant importance since lot of industrial applications add shear during dewatering to improve solid-

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liquid separation, such as in thickeners and roller belt presses. Analysing the constitutive rheological behaviour is required to describe the response of a suspension to superimposed shear and compressive stresses. This study focuses on collecting and analysing 1-D compression, pure shear and superimposed shear and compression data. The combined data is obtained from the triaxial soil testing technique. This testing technique is novel to the rheological analysis of fragile suspensions. Coagulated calcium carbonate suspension is used as a model system for this rheological analysis. This analysis will give a better understanding of yielding behaviour under very low shear rates and under the combined effect of shear and compression. The outcome of this study will help to design and optimise dewatering applications which use combined shear and compression for improved efficiency of suspension dewatering.

Understanding filtration of wastewater sludges for improved water recycling

Samuel Skinner, Anthony Stickland, Peter Scales

The importance of improving water treatment standards for reuse is increasing as limits of freshwater resources continue to be stretched; over two billion people live in high water stress areas. Recycling of polluted and waste waters to potable is an important consideration to improve water availability, but it is currently limited by the high cost of production. Fouling of membranes used in many of these plants is a key issue. It reduces the output rate of purified water and increases the capital and operating costs. There are a number of potential methods for reducing fouling, such as denaturing the solid and molecular components causing the issues, but methods to determine the effectiveness of these solutions are generally empirical. The ability to quantitatively assess the filterability of wastewater treatment sludges and its role in fouling is essential to the assessment of potential membrane fouling solutions.

A new quantitative assessment process is proposed that uses a model for

filtration based on Buscall and White’s (1987) phenomenological model for compressional dewatering. The existing characterisation protocol for extremely compressible materials, such as wastewater treatment sludges, will be modified to allow accurate prediction of filtration behaviour from constant pressure filtration experiments. The characterisation will be utilised as input into a filtration model and the numerical solution used as the basis for quantitative comparison of filterability. This comparison will provide insights into the causes of poor filtration behaviour and subsequently the best optimisation protocols for membrane utilisation in water recycling.

The yielding of strongly flocculated suspensions

Hui-En Teo, Anthony Stickland, Robin Batterham, Peter Scales

The flow and deformation behaviour of particulate suspensions significantly affects process performance in many industries. To that end, research on suspension rheology has resulted in the simplification of yield behaviour through the shear and compressive yield stresses: σy and py. These parameters successfully predict suspension processability in one dimension but are pathologically inaccurate and unable to be applied to multi-dimensional processes which form the majority of industrial techniques.

To further the understanding of yield, a systematic study of yielding mechanisms in strongly flocculated suspensions must be undertaken firstly in pure shear, followed by combined shear and compression. In order to avoid wall slip and particle jamming, rheometric tests were conducted using the vane geometry in a wide gap. The profiles of a model calcite system and an industrial brown coal sample in three types of rheometric testing were obtained. Findings from controlled rate tests indicate rich detail in the transient model system response and non-monotonic flow that was attributed to strain-rate softening of the elastic stress. This could potentially be incorporated into a modified Herschel-Bulkley model that separates the yield stress into a degradable rate dependent

elastic component and an isostatic elastic stress. Critical strain and strain energy were identified and tested as potential alternative yield parameters and found to be promising in both model and industrial systems. The addition of compressional loads was observed to promote strain hardening and subsequently increase stress and delay shear yielding in both systems examined. These findings point to significant interaction between shear and compressive loadings in suspensions and will guide constitutive rheological modelling into the multi-dimensional era.

Algal cell disruption by high pressure homogenisation

Benjamin Yap, Peter Scales, Gregory Martin, Geoff Dumsday

Algae-derived fuels and specialty chemicals exploit the ability of algae to produce oils using only sunlight, water and CO2. Despite generally favourable factors such as high areal productivity, current process designs of algal biorefineries remain prohibitively expensive. One of the most significant barriers to large-scale commercialisation of algal biofuels arises from the encapsulation of lipids within a mechanically robust cell wall. In order for process-scale extraction of intracellular lipids to be cost-effective, the disruption of this cell wall barrier is necessary. In this project, high pressure homogenisation is investigated as the chosen unit operation for process-scale algal cell disruption. Through this work, conclusive evidence of the need for complete cell rupture and the underlying mechanisms of lipid extraction from ruptured cells have been described for the first time. Both scalability and feasibility of the homogeniser have also been demonstrated through a comprehensive energy evaluation involving high solids processing. Results from this work will address misconceptions in the literature from previous assessments that have only considered processing at concentrations that are too dilute to be energetically feasible. Knowledge developed through this work is of particular importance to the development of algal biotechnology as cell disruption is a critical processing step for which a scalable and efficient technique has yet to be established.

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Surface Forces and Spectroscopy

Research Staff Professor Derek Chan Professor Raymond Dagastine Professor Dave Dunstan Associate Professor Michelle Gee Associate Professor Sally Gras Professor Franz Grieser Dr Dalton Harvie Professor Robert Lamb Dr Xuehua Zhang

Dr Joseph Berry Dr Xiaofei Duan Dr Xu Li Dr Srinivas Mettu Dr Shuhua Peng Dr Huabin Wang Dr Alex Wu

Marta Redrado Notivoli

Research Students Jaimys Arnott Christian Biscombe Christopher Bolton Christine Browne Matthew Burton Brendan Dyett Tessa Evans Christopher Fewkes Malavika Haribabu Wei-Lun Hsu Anna Mularski Michael Neeson Rohit Pillai Tomer Simovich Catherine Sutton Leonie van ‘t Hag Chang Wang Chu Wu Chenglong Xu

Project Updates

Determining the fundamental mechanisms governing the availability and retention of air layers apparent on submerged superhydrophobic surfaces, and understanding the implications in respect to developing antifouling technologies

Jaimys Arnott, Rob Lamb

Marine biofouling refers to the inevitable build-up of marine biota on a surface submerged within terrestrial waters, and can range from a thin bacterial slime to hard, calcareous growths. Biofouling presents a considerable economic pressure upon the maritime

industry, greatly reducing a vessel’s fuel efficiency, whilst imposing a necessity for expensive and time consuming hull maintenance. Additionally, fouled vessels may act as a vector for the introduction of invasive species. Biofouling has thus become the focus of a substantial body of research targeting preventative strategies. While antifouling technologies of the past centred predominantly on the use of heavy metal biocidal agents such as tributyl tin, concerns regarding bioaccumulation of such toxicants has led to a commercial ban of many of these agents. As such, there is now an increased demand for eco-friendly alternatives. By

investigating the effects of controlled modification of physical parameters of a known superhydrophobic material, an understanding of the origins of air availability, replenishment and retention will be developed. This will involve macro-, micro- and nano-scale analysis of wetting behaviour, using a raft of techniques under a range of conditions. Thus far, in situ and in vitro fouling responses have shown levels of fouling on immersed superhydrophobic surfaces to be greater when plastron lifetimes were minimal, regardless of the length scale, motility and the surface preference of the organisms tested.

CollaborationsKing Abdul University of Science and Technology, Saudi Arabia

Dr Erqiang Li Professor Sigudur Thoroddsen Dr Ivan Vakarelski

Monash University, Australia Dr Rico Tabor

RMIT University, Australia Dr Charlotte Conn Professor Calum Drummond Dr Xuehua Zhang

Singapore Polytechnic, Singapore Dr Jiang Hao

Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Israel Assistant Professor Ofer Manor

University of Alberta, Canada Dr Plamen Tchoukov Professor Zhenghe Xu Professor Hongbo Zeng

The University of Melbourne, Australia Dr Gabriel da Silva Dr Malcolm Davidson Dr Gregory Martin Professor Frances Separovic

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Anisotropic particle diffusion under confinement

Christopher Bolton, Raymond Dagastine

From designer drugs to next-generation photovoltaic cells, an increasingly wide range of “advanced” materials are incorporating engineered particles as colloidal building blocks to engender structure and functionality on the scale of microns to nanometers – analogous to the role atoms play at the molecular scale. When constituent particles are simple (e.g. spherical and compositionally isotropic), our understanding of their diffusion and self-assembly behaviour under confinement is sufficiently mature to attempt the design of new materials with predictable macroscopic properties. Marginally less simple particles, with irregular shape or composition, give rise to significantly more complex behaviour. Anisotropic particles of this kind arise in many systems of interest; for example, structurally aggregated zinc oxide rods and carbon nanotubes may be used in the fabrication of solar cells, nanoelectronic and photonic devices. Far from enabling predictive approaches, our understanding of these systems is severely hampered by a lack of suitable experimental methods for even observing the diffusion of anisotropic particles. Our recent work has focused on developing new methods to probe the Brownian dynamics of anisotropic particles as they diffuse and interact within nanoscale confinement architectures. In particular, this involves the adaptation of an existing

colloidal force measurement technique to accommodate non-spherical particles in solution.

Colliding bubbles in the presence of polyelectrolytes

Christine Browne, Rico Tabor, Derek Chan, Franz Grieser, Raymond Dagastine

The interactions between bubbles are important in a number of commercial applications. For example the stability of food products containing foams, separation processes such as flotation and personal care products. As the forces between bubbles in aqueous solutions containing solutes in general and polyelectrolytes in particular are not fully understood further understanding of these interactions may lead to improvements in many consumer products and industrial processes.

The aim of this work was to investigate the forces between bubbles in aqueous solutions containing the polyelectrolyte sodium poly(styrene sulfonate). The technique of atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to measure the forces between bubbles and rigid interfaces. A comparison between deformable and rigid surfaces has also been undertaken because deformable interfaces are more sensitive to the presence of polyelectrolytes in solution. Other research emphases of this work include effects of varying bubble collision velocity, polyelectrolyte concentration and molecular weight. Influences on

bubble-bubble interaction forces due to polymer molecular weight were investigated further to understand the effect that varying polydispersity has on these interactions. These show that a distribution of molecule sizes plays a role in the ability of the molecules to structure within the solution. The observations undertaken on structural forces under varying conditions such as the collision speed of bubbles, polyelectrolyte concentration and polydispersity of the polyelectrolyte have been made. The use of quantitative modelling has revealed that the resultant interactions between bubbles in aqueous solutions are sensitive to the molecule size, polyelectrolyte concentration and polydispersity of the polyelectrolyte.

Surface engineering for mechanically robust superhydrophobic films

Brendan Dyett, Alex Wu, Robert Lamb

The application of superhydrophobic films in self-cleaning and biofouling prevention is limited by the fragile nature of surface roughness. Typically present as needlelike asperities, the roughened topology is highly prone to abrasion and loses superhydrophobicity as a result of mechanical damage smoothing the interface. This apparent dichotomy between durability and superhydrophobicity can be explained by conflicting design principles deriving from the geometry of the interface. It is therefore necessary to explore

Postgraduate student Jaimys Arnott is investigating how to fabricate surfaces that retain an air-layer when immersed under water. The image illustrates the first step in the process.

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rationalised asperities to resist mechanical failures. To this end, thin films exhibiting more robust craterlike roughness have been prepared from templated siloxane and subsequently polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) networks. These films, in particular those derived from POSS, exhibit improved mechanical properties beyond needlelike asperities however remain too brittle for practical requirements. Brittleness has been overcome in natural materials including nacre and enamel by tailored assembly of nano/micro ‘building blocks’ to induce interfacial effects which enable energy dissipation. Mimicking such assembly of particles within the craterlike surface asperities is being pursued toward further improving their capacity to resist mechanical damage.

Nanofabrication of custom atomic force microscopy cantilevers to measures soft matter interactions

Christopher Fewkes, Christine Browne, Franz Grieser, Raymond Dagastine

Measuring the interaction forces and nano-mechanical properties of soft or deformable materials ranging from emulsions and foams to capsules, micro-particles, and even living cells, is becoming more prevalent by researchers and industry alike. Our research group has developed a range of methods using atomic force microscopy (AFM) to probe these types of systems. Part of this development has employed nanofabrication methods to fabricate a range of custom AFM cantilevers designed to immobilise drops, bubbles, capsules, particles or cells for either direct force measurement or nano-mechanical measurements. Through control of both

cantilever shape and the deposition of local patterns at the end of the cantilever (i.e. circular disks) we are able to locally control wettability or surface functionalisation at specific regions of the cantilever for drop, bubble or cell immobilisation. The scale up of these cantilever fabrication methods allows our group to distribute these cantilevers to other research groups.

Simulating the behavior of skim milk during ultrafiltration

Malavika Haribabu, David Dunstan, Gregory Martin, Malcolm Davidson, Dalton Harvie

During the ultrafiltration of skim milk, the permeate comprising serum proteins, lactose, salts and water leaves the system through a semi-permeable membrane, leaving behind larger particles (in the retentate) such as casein and whey proteins. Hence the concentration of the larger particles builds up near the membrane in a phenomenon known as concentration polarization (CP). CP contributes significantly to the resistance of the membrane, limiting the efficiency of the ultrafiltration process. In this study we are developing a comprehensive model of skim milk ultrafiltration that will be employed to improve filtration performance. Since casein is the major contributor to the proteins (80% by weight), we currently consider it as the primary constituent of the retentate. Most of the previous studies model ultrafiltration processes using a single-fluid approach, in which an advective-diffusive solids equation is superimposed over a single momentum (Navier-Stokes type) equation - this approach is strictly only valid in the dilute limit, and partially

(at least) neglects particle-particle interactions on the overall momentum balance. Particle-particle interactions are particularly significant in regions of high concentration, for example in the efficiency limiting concentration polarisation region formed during ultrafiltration. Our objective is to develop a multi-fluid model for milk ultrafiltration that accounts for particle-particle and fluid-particle interactions, and to validate this model using a concurrently running experimental program.

This project is part of a larger dairy program supported by the ARC (Linkage) and Dairy Innovation Australia (DIAL).

Electrokinetics at the silica/water interface, with application to protein focusing and separation in a silica nanofluidic channel

Wei-Lun Hsu, David Dunstan, Malcolm Davidson, Dalton Harvie

The manipulation of biological macromolecules in a new breed of nanofluidic devices, for applications such as point-of-care diagnostics, requires a quantitative understanding of electrokinetics. Using this as motivation, the focus of this research is on electrokinetics within silica nanochannels. It was found that several issues regarding the conventional electric, double layer model at a silica/water interface exist, as evidenced by a lack of consistency within the literature, for properties such as the (i) equilibrium constant of surface silanol groups, (ii) Stern layer capacitance, (iii) zeta potential measured by various electrokinetic methods, and (iv) surface conductivity. In this work, the silica and water interface model is

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modified to include the viscoelectric effect - that is, the increase of the local viscosity due to the polarisation of polar solvents. The model is validated by comparing theoretical results with those from previous experiments, conducted using four fundamental electrokinetic phenomena: electrophoresis, electroosmosis, streaming current and streaming potential. This model is then applied to two types of matrix-free protein focusing and separation devices that employ a nanofluidic channel - concentration gradient focusing and isoelectric focusing - to better understand how these devices work, and quantitatively predict trapping behaviour. The effects of salt concentration, applied voltage, pH and channel geometry on the electroosmotic flow are examined.

Nanomechanical studies of the interactions of antimicrobial agents with bacterial cells

Anna Mularski, Michelle Gee, Frances Separovic

The development of new active antimicrobial agents is of increasing importance with the emergence of superbug bacterial strains resistant to conventional antibiotics. Membrane-active antimicrobial peptides (AMP) are promising therapeutic alternatives: their nonspecific targets suggest that eventual bacterial resistance is unlikely. It is commonly assumed that AMP kill bacterial cells by permeating the outer membrane and disrupting the inner cell membrane through the formation of pores. However, recent studies indicate the mechanism depends on the peptide structure and the lipid components of the bacterial cell membrane, which varies from bacterial species to species and strain to strain, even within a species. In this study, first, the interactions of a well characterised lytic peptide with live Klebsiella pneumoniae cells were studied using atomic force microscopy. The experimental methodology developed was then applied to study the interaction of the commercially available polypeptide antibiotic, colistin sulfate, with K. pneumoniae. Finally, the insight gained with these peptide species was used to study the interactions of the AMP, caerin 1.1, with live K. pneumoniae cells and to evaluate its efficacy. The results will provide fundamental insights into the relationships between the different physical and chemical states of AMP, a peptide’s efficacy in the killing of

microbial cells and the surface structures of K. pneumoniae cells that these peptides must negotiate. This knowledge will open avenues for the development of novel therapeutics directed towards antibiotic-resistant strains of microbial cells that cause infectious disease.

Investigating the capillary bridge between a particle and a substrate

Michael Neeson, Rico Tabor, Franz Grieser, Ray Dagastine, Derek Chan

Capillary bridges are formed when a small volume of liquid sits between two solid surfaces. These bridges have wide ranging applications from evaporative lithography to particle coalescence. By considering a capillary bridge between a spherical particle and a flat substrate, we investigate how the physical properties of a given system affect the resulting configuration.

Through a careful analysis of the Gibbs free energy, the shape of the resulting configuration can be found, revealing a critical liquid volume for which the configuration switches from a spherical interface with zero capillary force between the particle and the substrate, to an axisymmetric collar interface with an attractive capillary force. Having established a theoretical model, a series of key experiments were studied, showing good agreement between theory and experiment. Fitting the theoretical model to experimental images provides important physical insights into the underlying dynamics of such systems.

An electrokinetic study of electro-coalescence of a microfluidic drop on a planar interface

Rohit Pillai, Joseph Berry, Dalton Harvie, Malcolm Davidson

Electric fields have been employed in many industrial processes to produce and manipulate liquid drops, with applications including atomisation, enhanced coalescence and purification of oils. Recent developments in lab-on-a-chip microfluidic devices also provide a host of novel applications for multiphase electrokinetic flow including medical diagnostics and chemical synthesis. Our research focuses on the fundamental understanding of the problem of electrically induced deformation, breakup and coalescence of a microfluidic drop, which is essential prior to proceeding to more complex electrokinetic systems.

This is done by numerical modelling of simplified drop scenarios using a two phase electrokinetic model.

The current research focuses on studying the effects of electric fields on coalescence of a drop and a planar interface. Electric fields have been known to accelerate the coalescence process by aiding the rupture of the interfacial film at the point of contact. However, incomplete coalescence can also occur, when a secondary drop pinches off without entering the bulk, the reasons for which are poorly understood. In addition to electric forces, the drop deformation behaviour is influenced by the inertial, viscous and interfacial tension forces. The goal of the project is to characterise the coalescence behaviour of the drop and develop an understanding of the physical mechanisms involved. Past research has been focused on studying the electrically induced drop deformation and breakup. The effects of electric field strength and drop ion concentration were shown to play a prominent role in the different dynamic behaviours observed. The stability conditions were also characterised.

In meso crystallisation of integral membrane proteins

Leonie van ‘t Hag, Xu Li, Charlotte Conn, Sally Gras, Calum Drummond.

A novel in meso crystallisation method has facilitated the structural determination of several biologically relevant integral membrane proteins (IMPs). However, the method remains poorly understood as IMPs are difficult to express and handle. Analogous to solution based crystallisation, in meso crystallisation requires extensive screening of precipitant conditions. Bicontinuous cubic phases are the most commonly used lipid phases for in meso crystallisation. The effect of the IMPs on the cubic phase and the compatibility of the crystallisation screen used with the cubic phase are important; if the underlying 3-D cubic nanostructure is destroyed, the screen or protein / lipid combination may not be suitable for in meso crystallisation experiments. The 3-D lipid nanostructure of lipids under crystallisation conditions was studied by using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). The lipid nanostructure upon incorporation of IMPs with different hydrophobic and hydrophilic domains sizes was also studied by using SAXS. An improved understanding of the effect of crystallisation screens and IMPs on the

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cubic mesophase can lead to an improved understanding of in meso crystallisation success rates and facilitate the structural determination of more IMPs.

Investigation of optically transparent non-wetting surfaces

Chang Wang, Alex Wu, Robert Lamb

High orders of interfacial roughness are known to scatter light; as a result, superhydrophobic surfaces, which are inherently rough, generally appear opaque. An optically transparent superhydrophobic coating would require an ideal surface roughness morphology, which optimises superhydrophobicity on the surface yet exhibits minimal light scattering. A scalable and environmentally friendly method to fabricate low energy superhydrophobic coatings is through the use of ‘seeded’ silica nanoparticles in sol-gel synthesis. The roughness parameters on such surfaces are not yet defined for the co-existence of transparency and superhydrophobicity properties on one surface. The surface and bulk morphology of “seeded” silica nanoparticle sol-gel coatings were investigated using techniques such as atomic force microscopy, non-contact optical profilometry, small and ultra-small angle X-ray scattering and dual beam FIB cross-section milling. These studies are used to define goldilocks range of surface roughness and bulk morphology to achieve both superhydrophobicity and visible transparency simultaneously.

Hydrodynamic drag at high Reynolds numbers

Ivan Vakarelski, Erqiang Li, Sigudur Thoroddsen, Derek Chan

This project aims to elucidate the effect of solid/liquid boundary properties on drag reduction and the onset of the drag crisis in bluff bodies. Systematic studies into the effects of surface hydrophobicity, surface mass transport and phase change are being carried out. These studies provide fundamental understanding on the important role of surface properties in hydrodynamic drag.

Applications of the Stokes Reynolds Young Laplace Model

Chu Wu, Rico Tabor, Derek Chan

The Stokes Reynolds Young Laplace (SRYL) model is used to describe the

interaction of two surfaces where at least one of the surfaces is deformable. When two surfaces with a thin film in between are pushed together they experience a mixture of hydrodynamic pressure due to film drainage and disjoining pressure due to surface chemistry. This poses problems for deformable surfaces since the pressures can cause the surface to deform which in turn can then influence film drainage. Thus the SRYL model consists of two coupled PDEs which are made up of the Stokes Reynolds equation for film drainage and the Young Laplace equation for surface deformation. Previously the SRYL was used to model experimental data from the AFM. However it is now increasingly used as a theoretical tool to analyse systems that may be difficult to access experimentally. Below is a summary of the projects conducted this year.

1. Oil drop and air bubble in water: The SRYL was used to model a bubble-drop system which consisted of two different deformable objects in water. Drag effects were also incorporated into the modelling due to the high linear drive velocities used to push the bubble-drop systems together.

2. Drop deformations: The deformations of individual bubbles or drops could now be calculated. Previously the SRYL only produced results for the film thickness, which gives no information regarding bubble deformation unless one of the surfaces is solid and its shape known.

3. Pumping drives: Two drops were wobbled together with different retract speeds to determine whether the retraction velocities influence coalescence. The SRYL model was able match experimental results that demonstrate increasing retraction velocities alone, is sufficient to cause coalescence.

4. Modelling flows of porous anodic aluminium membranes (PAAMs) – Recent experimental work on PAAMs have demonstrated that they display enhanced flow behaviour. This leads to their potential application in the area of water treatment but little is known about their hydrodynamic properties. In collaboration with the University of Bath, experimental and modelling work was conducted to gain a better understanding of the hydrodynamic behaviour of not only PAAMs, but also of membranes.

5. Calculating structure factor using Ginoza’s method – The solution to the Ornstein-Zernike equation with mean-spherical-approximation closure can be

used to obtain the structure factor for colloidal systems. Currently, software used to solve this problem utilise the method outlined in Hayter-Penfold with renormalisation outlined in Hayter-Hansen, which required a solution of a quartic equation. An alternative method was developed by Ginoza which circumvented the difficulties presented by the quartic equation. Due to the simplicity of Ginoza’s method we were able to develop an Excel Spreadsheet that is able to calculate the structure factor.

6. Structural forces at higher velocities: The SRYL is used to predict the behaviour of systems with nanoscale colloids trapped between two surfaces driven at velocities greater than 0.2nm/s.

Nanobubbles and nanodroplets

Chenglong Xu, Xuehua Zhang, Greg Qiao

Surface nanobubbles were predicted and discovered almost 20 years ago. They have great potential for novel uses in flotation in water treatment and coal preparation, reducing boundary slip in micro-and nano-fluidic systems and antifouling. The most-used way to characterise nanobubbles is atomic force microscopy (AFM). The tapping mode is usually applied to image the nanobubbles on the surface. Recently the new AFM mode peak force quantitative nanomechanical mode (PeakForce QNM) was developed. By using PeakForce QNM AFM, high resolution and stable images can be obtained of dissolved nitrogen molecules diffused in water and self-assembled into ordered row-like structural domains at the interface of water and highly ordered pyrolytic graphite (HOPG). This phenomenon was not able to be observed by tapping mode AFM. These findings shed light on the nucleation and stability of nanobubbles.

Nanodroplets have similar properties to nanobubbles, e.g. the pinned contact line, the low contact angle and the long-time life at the surface. Nanodroplets can also be conveniently produced by the solvent exchange method and the reproducibility of nanodroplets is much higher than that of nanobubbles. Furthermore, liquid nanodroplets can be converted to solid polymeric nanolenes by forming nanodroplets of monomers following by in situ photopolymerisation. The similar properties between nanodroplets and nanobubbles means that the study of nanodroplets can shed light on the study of nanobubbles.

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Education and Training

Postgraduate student Armineh Hassanvand

During 2014, 36 new postgraduate students commenced with the PFPC bringing the total number of current postgraduate students in the Centre to 131. We congratulate the 21 students who successfully completed their postgraduate studies in 2014. These students have accepted varied appointments across academia and industry both within Australia and overseas. By the end of 2014 a further 9 students had submitted their theses for examination and await their final results.

Our students are a major strength and focus of the Centre with 80% of them receiving competitive scholarships; 30% of our students received Australian Government awards and 40% were awarded University of Melbourne Research Scholarships.

A major goal of the Centre is to ensure that our students are well prepared for a career in research, technology and/or education. A number of students are either co-supervised by research staff across more than one discipline or co-supervised by at least one of our external collaborators. The PFPC encourages and supports students to attend national and international conferences and to visit our associates whilst interstate or overseas. Students have the opportunity to conduct part of their research project in the laboratories of our collaborators. Whilst this is incredibly beneficial to our students it also gives them the opportunity to act as ambassadors of the Centre, highlighting our research activities on a national and international scale.

The Centre has a number of undergraduate students working on research projects in the final year of their undergraduate degree throughout the year. During 2014, over 40 undergraduate students worked on projects within the Centre. This brings the total number of students working on research projects within the Centre to over 200, either in progress or completed in 2014.

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Successful Completions 2014Student & Supervisors Degree Stipend Thesis TitleSalmah Almarhabi M Ashokkumar

MSc SACM-AU pTSA ultrasonic degradation with respect to ultrasonic micelle modification

Ya Ya Bonggotgetsakul S Kolev

PhD MIFRS, MIRSThe extraction of gold(III) from hydrochloric acid solutions and the preparation of precious metal nanoparticles using polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs)

Don Bui M Ashokkumar

MSc Self-funded Ultrasonic encapsulation of nutritional ingredients

Francesca Cavalieri M Ashokkumar

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Ultrasonic synthesis and characterization of multifunctional nano/microcapsules

Andri Halim G Qiao, S Kentish

PhDMIFRS, CO2CRC

Soft polymeric nanoparticles as additives for CO2 separation membranes

Alireza Kashani J Provis, J van Deventer, G Qiao

PhD IPRS, APA Rheological behavior of alkali-activated slag

Kang Liang F Caruso

PhDResearch Group Funds

Dual responsive capsules for intracellular delivery applications: From material characterization to biological responses

Samantha Lichter F Caruso, A Burkett, S Prawer, D Garrett

PhD APA, NICTA Materials engineering challenges of the bionic eye

Brian Maring P Webley

PhD CO2CRCAnalysis of materials and regeneration methods for improved CO2 capture technologies using solid adsorbents

Sima Mohammadnejad J Provis, J van Deventer

PhD MRS The role of silicates in gold processing

Hanh Thi Hong Nguyen S Gras, S Kentish

PhD MRS Characterisation of buffalo milk, yoghurt and cheese

Sian Yang Ow D Dunstan

PhD APA Inhibitors of amyloid fibrils

Jing Ming Ren G Qiao

PhD APANovel polymeric architectures through controlled/living polymerization, click chemistry and superamolecular interactions

Joseph Jacob Richardson F Caruso

PhD MIFRS, MRSArginine based gene therapy devices: An analysis of bacterially produced self assembling complexes and their modifications alone and in LbL assembly

Rudolf Spehar P Scales, M Rudman

PhD APA(I) Modelling of the role of shear in compressional dewatering

Erin Spiden P Scales, S Kentish, G Martin

PhD APA Investigation into cell disruption for the industrial processing of microalgae

Catherine Sutton G Franks, G Da Silva

PhD APA Interactions between oxide surfaces and carboxylates

Hendy Thee G Stevens, S Kentish, G Da Silva

PhD CO2CRC The kinetics of potassium carbonate solvent absorption processes

Nicolin Tirtaatmadja A O’Connor, G Lynch, K Murphy

PhDNHMRC Project Funds

Biomolecule delivery systems for tissue engineering and muscle regeneration

Ida Widnersson R Caruso

PhD MIFRS, IPRS Fabrication of porous materials for dye-sensitized solar cells

Zhou Zhang G Qiao, X Hao

PhDCSIRO, Eugen Singer Award

Molecular structure effects on polymeric honeycomb film formation

Work Submitted for Examination 2014Student & Supervisors Degree Stipend Thesis TitleHirra Azher S Kentish, G Stevens, C Scholes

PhD BCIA Water recovery from brown coal flue gases

William McMaster R Caruso

PhD SFS Biomaterial porous networks of hydroxyapatite and titanium dioxide

Michael Neeson D Chan

PhD APA Dynamic interactions of soft matter

Philipp Senn J Fallon, R Shepherd, F Caruso

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Peripheral nerve stimulation for treatment of chronic neuropathic pain

Akalya Shanmugam M Ashokkumar

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Ultrasonic formation of stable food emulsions for the delivery of nutrients

Kevany Soodam S Gras, S Kentish

PhD DIAL Microstructure in mature Cheddar cheese

Tom Statham G Stevens, I Snape, K Mumford

PhD APA Zero-valent iron for the in situ remediation of Antarctic contaminated sites

Suryani Tan S Gras, C Oliver, M Augustin

PhD MIFRS, CSIRO Interactions of intestinal microbiota with functional foods and nutraceuticals

Blaise Tardy F Caruso

PhDMIFRS, ARC Project Funds

Targeted drug delivery using capsules formed using the layer by layer technique

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New Postgraduate Students 2014Student & Supervisors Degree Stipend Thesis TitleSuhaib Ali P Webley, F Hasan

PhD STRAPAApplication and development of heterogeneous catalyst bed reactors, gas-phase separation strategies for onboard DME synthesis

Sukhvir Kaur Bhangu M Ashokkumar

MSc Self-funded Sonocrystallisation

Cesar Castaneda R Haese, G Stevens

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Subsurface barrier formation as a CO2 leakage mitigation technology

Sriharini Chellappan A Stickland, P Scales

PhD MIFRS, MIRSDry stacking - A new paradigm in design and operation of solar evaporation pans for sludge treatment

Enrico Colombo M Ashokkumar

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Synthesis of new catalysts with ultrasound

Hongzhan Di D Dunstan

MPhil MIFRS, MIRS Filtration of model colloidal particles

Matt Faria E Crampin, F Caruso

MPhil NICTAComputational modelling of interactions between nanomaterials and biological systems

Dunyin Gu A O’Connor, G Qiao, K Ladewig, K McLean, D Haylock

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Development of cryogels for biomedical applications

Armineh Hassanvand S Kentish, P Webley

PhD IPRS, APAInt Capacitive deionisation as a novel approach to wastewater treatment

Guoping Hu G Stevens, S Kentish, N Nicholas

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Carbon dioxide capture using promoted potassium carbonate solutions

Sam Law G Martin, P Scales

PhD MIFRS, MIRSLipase based in-situ transesterification for biodiesel production from wet microalgal paste

Wen (April) Li G Stevens, K Mumford

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Solvent extraction column performance study of pulsed columns for solvent extraction

Wu Li M Ashokkumar

MSc Self-funded Ultrasound-assisted fabrication of mesoporous metal framework

Yiqun Li R Caruso

PhD CSC Engineering electrochromic materials for multifunctional smart windows

Hiep Thuan (Bill) Lu S Kentish

PhDMIFRS, MIRS, BCIA

The effect of hydrogen sulphide on gas separation membrane performance

Junchao Ma K Mumford, G Stevens

PhD MIFRS, CSCDevelopment of contaminant hydrocarbon and metal removal systems suitable for implementation in cold regions

Nirmal Mathew H Zhang, G Qiao

PhDMDHS Faculty Scholarship

Non invasive ocular drug delivery systems

Seyed Farshad Motevalizadeh R Caruso

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Functionalisation of porous inorganic structures

Wei Sung (Will) Ng G Franks, L Connal

PhD APA Novel temperature-responsive polymers as flocculants and collectors

Anita Pax S Gras, L Ong, S Kentish

MPhil Self-funded Microstructure and functionality of mozzarella pizza cheese

Samuel Pinches G Franks, C Tallon

PhD APA Net-shaping techniques for MAX phases

Nasim Pour P Webley, G Stevens

PhD MIFRS, MIRS High temperature CO2 capture

Kaiyuan Qin M Gee, A O’Connor

MSc Self-funded Functionalization of mesoporous material for protein separation

Tomer Simovich R Lamb

PhD MRS The fundamental properties of non-wetting topography

Sam Skinner P Scales, A Stickland

PhD Elizabeth & Vernon Puzey Scholarship Filter biofouling layers in water recycle

Danzi Song F Caruso, Y Yan

PhD MIFRS, MRS Polymer based carriers for drug and gene delivery

Sinuo (Snow) Tan M Ashokkumar

MSc IPCA Ultrasonic synthesis of chemically-modified chitosan microspheres

Claire Tindal N Tse, D Lau, A O’Connor, P Nel

PhD MIFRS, MIRSReplicating the past: Integrating cultural heritage conservation with 3D imaging and printing processes

Hao Wei R Caruso

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Fabrication and application of hierarchical porous carbonaceous monoliths

Alessia Weiss F Caruso

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Zwitterionic replica particles for drug delivery

Fan Wu P Webley, P Xiao, F Hasan

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Development of mini-DME plant

Wu-Qiang (Mike) Wu R Caruso

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Porous structure for solar cells

Yue (Frank) Wu G Stevens, K Mumford

PhD MIEA Separation of CO2 from flue gas

Ke Xie G Qiao, P Webley

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Engineering graphene-based novel structures

Qianyu (Matilda) Ye M. Ashokkumar

MSc Self-funded Ultrasonic encapsulation of food flavours

Xueying (Alison) Zhang P Webley, J Shang

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Gas diffusion in zeolites

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Continuing Postgraduate Students 2014Student & Supervisors Degree Stipend Thesis TitleHannah Alcantara S Kolev, A Doronila, M Nicolas, C Anderson

PhDAusAID Australian Leadership Award Scholarship

Chemically-enhanced phytoextraction of mercury and gold in contaminated mine tailings and biosolids

Jaimys Arnott R Lamb

PhD MRSDetermining the fundamental mechanisms governing the availability and retention of air layers apparent on submerged superhydrophobic surfaces, and understanding the implications in respect to developing antifouling technologies

Halleh Atri D Dunstan

PhD MIFRS, MIRSA study of modified secondary structure of natural protein fibres : From macro to nano structures

Elham Bidram Gorgaby D Dunstan

PhD APAInt Drug delivery using polymeric nanoparticles

Christian Biscombe D Harvie, M Davidson

PhD Special Postgrad Scholarship Microfluidic circuit analysis

Dhee Biswas A O’Connor, P Tran

PhD APA Anti-microbial biomaterials

Mattias Björnmalm F Caruso

PhD IPRS, APA Antibiotic delivery using polymer capsules

Chris Bolton R Dagastine

PhDResearch Group Funds

Controlling dispersion forces to probe diffusive transport properties in confined systems

Emma Brisson G Franks, L Connal

MPhil MIRS Novel temperature responsive polymers and collectors and flocculants

Christine Browne F Grieser, R Dagastine, R Tabor

PhD APA Effects of solutes on bubble interactions

Stephan Burger A O’Connor, M. Gee

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Nanoporous materials for biomedical devices, drug delivery and bioseparations

Wilhelm Burger S Gras, A Stickland

PhD IPRS, APAInt Bacteriophage treatment of wastewater foam

Matthew Burton M Gee

PhD APAImaging the interactions of antimicrobial peptides with cellular membranes using model and living systems

Lu Cao R Caruso, P Martin

PhD STRAPASynthesis of hierarchically porous titania materials and their application in energy and environment fields

Xi (Cathy) Chen F Caruso

PhD MIFRS, MIRSImpact of geometry and surface chemistry of nanoengineered materials on cellular interactions

Adam Crust S Usher, P Scales

PhD APA Optimisation of thickener performance through incorporation of shear effects

Qiong (Ada) Dai F Caruso

PhD MIRS Intracellular dynamics of nanoengineered materials

David Danaci P Webley, R Singh, P Xiao

PhD CO2CRCCarbon dioxide capture from natural gas: Development of materials and accompanying processes

Yasmina Dkhissi R Caruso

PhD MIRS High perfomance dye sensitised solar cells

Sarah Dodds F Caruso

PhDResearch Group Funds

Developing ultra-low fouling polymer capsules for targeted delivery

Mina Dokouhaki S Gras

PhD IPRS, APAThe characterisation of amyloid fibrils from chaplin peptides of Streptomyces coelicolor and their function

Brendan Dyett A Wu, R Lamb

PhD APA Durable ultra-rough coatings through surface engineering

Tessa Evans R Lamb

MSc Science National Scholarship Coal wettability

Christopher Fewkes R Dagastine

PhD APA Interactions of structured fluids in soft colloidal systems

Benjamin Freidman K Mumford, S Gras, G Stevens

PhD Engineering Studentship

Biofilm formation within permeable reactive barriers: Implications for media reactivity and hydrocarbon degradation in cold regions

Katelyn Gause F Caruso

PhD MIFRS, MRS Bioconjugation of polymer capsules

Agustina Goh R Dagastine, L Lundin

PhD APA, CSIROOral rheology and its relationship to sensory perception in emulsion based food systems

Sook Jin Goh G Qiao, N O’Brien-Simpson, A Blencowe

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Development of peptide based star polymers as antimicrobial agents

Sylvia Gunawan F Caruso, G Such

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Bio-inspired polymeric carriers for therapeutic applications

Teobaldo Grabin G Stevens, K Mumford

MPhil APA Influence of plate material on performance of disc and doughnuts column

Junling (John) Guo F Caruso

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Biotemplated morph-materials for templated assembly of polymer-drug system

Malavika Haribabu D Harvie, M Davidson, D Dunstan

M PhilARC Project Funds

Simulating the behaviour of milk during ultrafiltration

Steven Harris Wibowo G Qiao

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Novel methods for nanoengineered biocompatible films

Terence Hartnett A O’Connor, K Ladewig, K McLean, P Hartley

PhD STRAPA, MMI-CSIRO Studentship

Development of a drug delivery vehicle for bioactive molecules, in particular proteins, to the eye

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Continuing Postgraduate Students 2014Student & Supervisors Degree Stipend Thesis TitleYingdian (Frank) He P Webley

PhD CSC Responsive metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for gas adsorption and separation

Timothy Henderson A O’Connor, K Ladewig, K McLean, D Haylock

PhD MRS 3D hydrogels for tissue engineering

Stephen Homer D Dunstan, L Lundin

PhD Self-funded Hierarchical structure function relationships in mined biopolymer systems

Wei-Lun Hsu D Harvie, M Davidson, D Dunstan

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Simulating microfluidic electrokinetic flows

Javad Jafari A O’Connor, P Tran

PhD IPRS, APA Magnetic manipulation of cells for soft tissue engineering

Badra Manori Jayawardane S Kolev

PhD APADevelopment of highly sensitive and selective paper based microfluidic devices for environmental monitoring

Yi Ju F Caruso, J Cui

PhDARC Project Funds

Bioresponsive dopamine particles (degradable)

Mahshid Kalani S Gras, A O’Connor

PhD IPRS, APA Peptide based materials and their assembly

Kezia Kezia S Kentish, J Lee

PhDResearch Group Funds

Salt recovery in dairy operation using membrane distillation technique

Jinguk Kim S Kentish

PhD CO2CRC Polymer synthesis for CO2 separation membrane

Ashish Kumar P Scales, A Stickland

PhD APA(I) Measuring the critical strain of flocculated particulate networks

Tiara Kusuma A Stickland, R Dagastine

PhD MIFRS, MIRSThe link between shear rheological behaviour and microstructure of particulate suspensions

Shu Lam G Qiao, N O’Brien-Simpson

PhD IPRS, APAInt Engineering targeted peptide-based polymer architectures

Silvia Leo G Franks, C Tallon

PhDDMTC Scholarship

Processing of difficult to densify ceramics

Zheng Li G Stevens, J Perera

PhD CSC The influence of additives on kinetics of cobalt extraction by CYANEX 272

Lachlan Mason G Stevens, D Harvie, P Witt

PhD APA, CSIRO Dynamics of liquid–liquid coalescence in industrial solvent extraction

Thomas McKenzie G Qiao, D Dunstan

PhD APA Polymer deformation in flow

Paul Mignone G Franks, D Riley, P Lee

PhDDMTC Scholarship

Thermo-mechanical modelling of materials for ultra-high temperature applications

Nouman Rafique Mirza G Stevens

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Evaluation of alternative solvents for recovery of CO2 from flue gases

Anna Mularski M Gee, F Separovic, D Strugnell

PhD APA Interaction of antimicrobial peptides with bacterial cells

Edward Nagul S Kolev

PhD Self-fundedDevelopment of a flow injection system for arsenic detection and speciation using polymer inclusion membranes

EunHyung Nam G Qiao

PhD APADevelopment of continuous assembly of polymers (CAP) and its application in electronic devices

Sinn-Yao (Kenneth) Ng D Dunstan, G Martin

PhDARC Project Funds

A fundamental study of skim milk ultrafiltration

Ka Fung (Leo) Noi F Caruso, K Kempe

PhDResearch Group Funds

Smart, engineered polymer vehicles for therapeutic delivery

Augustine Ntiamoah P Webley, P Xiao

PhD CO2CRC Development of optimal adsorption cycles for CO2 capture from flue gases

Natalita Nursam R Caruso, X Wang

PhD MIRS, CSIROPreparation and characterization of porous semiconductor materials for photocatalysis using high-throughput technique

Yukie O’Bryan S Kolev

PhD APADevelopment of novel polymer inclusion membranes by electrospinning and casting and study of their extraction and transport

Paul Osborne R Caruso

PhD MRS Quantum dot sensitized solar cells

David Parris R Caruso

PhD APA Photochemical reactions

Karolina Petkovic-Duran G Stevens, Y Zhu

PhD CSIRO Electrophoretic control of molecules in microshannels with nanostructures

Rohit Pillai M Davidson, D Harvie

PhD MIFRS, MIRSAn electrokinetic study of drop motion, deformation and breakup with application to microfluidics

Krishnamurthy Prasad M Ashokkumar

M Phil MIFRS, MIRS Scale up processes associated with ultrasonics and sonochemistry

James Quinn K Soldenhoff, G Stevens

PhD RTS Synergistic solvent extraction of rare earth elements

Md. Arifur Rahim F Caruso

PhD IPRS, APA Chelation mediated multilayer assembly of organic-inorganic hybrid materials

Adlin Ramdzan S Kolev

PhD MIFRS, MIRSAnalysis methods for the determination of acetaldehyde and other suitable biomarkers in saliva

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Continuing Postgraduate Students 2014Student & Supervisors Degree Stipend Thesis TitleErwin Rodriguez-Tolava R Caruso, D Chen, A Hollenkamp

PhD MIFRS, MIRSSynthesis of material for lithium ion batteries and study of their electrochemical performance

Sayuri Rubasingha A Stickland

MPhil APA Combined shear and compression suspension rheology

Sara Sayanjali S Gras

PhD IPRS, APAInt The production of extruded starch materials with encapsulated bioactive compounds

Joel Scofield G Qiao, S Kentish

PhD APA Development of novel polymeric membranes for CO2 capture

Steven Shirbin G Qiao

PhD STRAPA Improved biomaterials for biological applications

Barbara Sowa D Dunstan, N Maeda

PhD MIFRS, CSIRO Oil dispersals in aqueous phases and their stability without the use of surfactants

Tomoya Suma F Caruso

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Smart, engineered polymer vehicles for therapeutic delivery

Jeannie Tan R Caruso, X Wang

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Composite materials for CO2 photoreduction

Willie Tang P Webley, R Singh, P Xiao

PhD CO2CRCLow cost oxygen production by swing pressure adsorption with oxygen selection absorbents

Hui-En Teo A Stickland , R Batterham, P Scales

PhD BCIA Probing the yield behaviour of suspensions

Stephanie Tortorella S Gras, T Karagiannis, K Howell

PhDBaker IDI Bright Sparks Stipend

Combinations of DNA-targeted therapeutics with dietary antioxidants and chromatin modifying compounds for therapeutic and imaging applications

Leonie van ‘t Hag S Gras, C Drummond, C Conn

PhD MIFRS, MIRS In meso crystallisation of amphiphilic peptides

Martin van Koeverden F Caruso

PhD APA Biocompatible nanostructures

Brant Walkley A O’Connor, J Provis, J van Deventer, R San Nicolas

PhD APA Understanding geopolymers through synthetic gel systems

Chang Wang R Lamb

PhDResearch Group Funds

Development and application of non-wetting surfaces

Michael Wang G Franks, D Riley, P Scales

PhDDMTC Scholarship

Thermal modelling and characterisation of ultra-high temperature ablation materials

Zhexing Wang G Stevens, A O’Connor, P Lee

PhD MIFRS, MIRS The effect of mechanical stimulation on cell property and tissue regeneration

Chu Wu D Chan

PhD APA Applications of the Stokes Reynolds Young Laplace model

Donglin Xie D Dunstan, G Qiao

PhD MIFRS, MIRS Single macromolecule deformation in flow

Chenglong Xu G Qiao, X Zhang

PhD MIFRS, MIEA Drying process of two dimensional nanosheets

Benjamin Yap P Scales, G Martin, G Dumsday

PhD STRAPA Nutrient deprivation effects on microalgae processing for biofuel production

Joel Yong S Kentish, F Caruso

PhD MIFRS, MIRS The development of thin films for efficient carbon capture and storage

Nor Saadah Mohd Yusof M Ashokkumar

PhDGovernment of Malaysia, University of Malaya

The effect of sonication on micelle micro-structural changes

Jinxuan Zhang M Ashokkumar

MSc Self-fundedUltrasonic synthesis of nanoparticles-encapsulated microspheres for step-wise release of functional materials

Qinghu Zhao P Webley, P Xiao

PhD MIEA Electrical swing adsorption (ESA) study and process development

Qi Zheng S Kentish, G Martin

PhD MIEA Economic delivery of carbon dioxide to algal ponds

GlossaryAPA Australian Postgraduate AwardAPA(I) Australian Postgraduate Award (Industry)APAInt Australian Postgraduate Award InternationalARC Australian Research CouncilBCIA Brown Coal Innovation AustraliaCRCBID Cooperative Research Centre for Biomedical Imaging

Development CO2CRC Cooperative Research Centre for Greenhouse Gas

TechnologiesCSC China Scholarship CouncilCSIRO Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research

OrganisationDIAL Dairy Innovation Australia LimitedDMTC Defence Materials Technology CentreIPCA International Postgraduate Coursework AwardIPRS Endeavour International Postgraduate Research Scholarship

KACST King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Saudi ArabiaMEngSc Master of Engineering ScienceMIEA Melbourne International Engagement AwardMIFRS Melbourne International Fee Remission ScholarshipMIRS Melbourne International Research ScholarshipMMI Melbourne Materials InstituteMPhil Master of PhilosophyMRS Melbourne University Research ScholarshipMSc Masters of ScienceNHMRC National Health and Medical Research CouncilPFPC Particulate Fluids Processing CentrePhD Doctor of PhilosophyRTS Research Training SchemeSACM-AU Saudi Arabian Culture MissionSFS Science Faculty ScholarshipSTRAPA Strategic Research Australian Postgraduate Award

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Seminar SeriesThe PFPC Student Seminar Organising Committee arrange a series of seminars to give postgraduate students and postdoctoral scientists the opportunity to present their work to their peers and senior researchers within the Centre. The seminar series provides members with the opportunity to keep abreast of the research taking place within the PFPC.In 2014 members of the Seminar Organising Committee were:

Christopher Bolton Stephan Burger (alternate for Brant Walkley)

Yasmina Dkhissi Katelyn Gause (resigned during 2014)

Martin van Koeverden Brant Walkley (overseas during 2014)

Alessia Weiss

Jin (Eric) Shang was awarded the 2013 Chinese Government Award for Outstanding Self-Financed Students Abroad by Mr Song Yumin, Chinese Consul-

General to Melbourne (left) at a ceremony held on 29 April 2014.

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Date Speakers Topic4 February A/Prof Tao Wang, State Key Laboratory of Clean Energy Utilization, Zhejiang University, China Direct CO2 capture from ambient air: The role of water on CO2 adsorption18 February Joel Scofield CO2 membranes Niko Kromer, Technische Universität München, Germany Global warming and its potential impact on human society25 February Dr Kentaro Tashiro, International Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics (MANA), National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), Japan

Solid-phase peptide synthesis of metal complex arrays: A novel approach to design multinuclear heterometallic complexes

Dr Kazuyoshi Kanamori, Kyoto University, Japan Structural control and functions of organic-inorganic hybrid porous materials4 March Terence Hartnett Controlling the architecture of cubosomes for the delivery of bioactive therapeutics Thomas Linseisen, Technische Universität München, Germany A study of the vapour-liquid equilibrium of carbon dioxide in formic acid and N,N-dimethylethylenediamine18 March Ben Freidman The development of permeable reactive barriers to address fuel spills in cold regions: Remediation at Casey

Station, East Antarctica A/Prof Shufeng Shen, Hebei University of Science and Technology, China Advanced solvents for reducing CO2 emissions from coal-fired power plants1 April Erwin Rodriguez Titanium based oxides as anode for lithium ion batteries Chu Wu The Ginoza Method for calculating the structure factor15 April Tim Henderson Modifiable macro-porous hyaluronic acid cryogels for cell culture Salmah Almarhabi Sonochemical degradation of p-toluenesulfonic acid29 April Kezia Kezia Toward zero liquid discharge: Membrane distillation to concentrate and crystallize salty-whey Brian Maring A novel temperature swing adsorption for cycle for post-combustion CO2 capture with increased throughput5 May Prof T. Alan Hatton, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA Taking charge of carbon capture: Electrochemical strategies for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions13 May Chris Bolton A new technique for sizing particles using frustrated evanescent fields Anna Mularski Interaction of a model antimicrobial peptide with bacterial cells27 May Chris Fewkes Surfactant systems used in colloidal dispersions and emulsions in the formulation of complex fluids Nouman Rafique Mirza CO2 capture using deep eutectic solvents - A prologue10 June Rupert Myers, The University of Sheffield, UK ‘Greening’ the construction industry: Thermodynamic modelling of modern Al and alkali-rich cements Xi (Cathy) Chen A facile approach for the fabrication of controllable fluorescence polydopamine-based capsules24 June Krishnamurthy Prasad Energy efficiency and advantages of ultrasonic synthesis of nanomaterials Steven Harris Wibowo Peptide β-sheets, get in shape!8 July Dr Ronald Halim Towards a more sustainable lipid extraction from microalgae

Adlin Ramdzan Determination of salivary cotinine via an on-line solid phase extraction using a bead-injection lab-on valve (BI-LOV) approach hyphenated to hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography

22 July Mina Dokouhaki Functional aspects of chaplin peptides Dr. Markus Müllner A facile method for the modular design of polymeric replica particles6 August Hirra Azher Membrane processes for water recovery from brown coal flue gases19 August Leo Noi Engineering polymeric nanocapsules for the study of capsule-cell interaction David Danaci Materials characterisation by gas adsorption2 September Tomoya Suma Engineering pH-degradable protein particles with maximum recovery of protein activity Dr Faxin Xiao, Henan University of Science and Technology, China The extraction of Co(II) with Cyanex272 in a neutral micellar system16 September Md. Arifur Rahim Surface confined amorphous films from metal coordinated sub-nm aromatic ligands30 September Junling Guo Engineering multifunctional capsules through the assembly of metal-phenolic networks Yasmina Dkhissi Low temperature processing of flexible planar perovskite solar cells with efficiency over 10%14 October Sara Sayanjali Potential of oat fibre as a carrier for curcuminoid Chenglong Xu Nanobubble form on a warmer substrate28 October Cesar Castaneda Reactive barrier formation for CO2 leakage mitigation Felix Gebauer/Hanin Boutros, Technische Universität Kaiserslautern, Germany Liquid-liquid extraction: Experimental and numerical investigations at TU Kaiserslautern11 November Willie Tang Oxygen selective adsorbent for air separation Yingdian He Tuning flexibility in a zinc metal-organic frameworks: Synthesis, structure and gas adsorption properties25 November Ben Hibbs Microscopy to nanoscopy: imaging beyond the optical resolution limit Jeannie Tan TiO2/g-C3N4 for artificial photosynthesis and photodegradation9 December Brant Walkley Stoichiometrically controlled C-A-S-H/N-A-S-H gel blends via alkali-activation of synthetic precursors Natalita Nursam Synthesis and high-throughput photocatalytic evaluation of porous titania thin films

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Awards and Achievements

Professor Frank Caruso awarded the Victoria Prize for Science and Innovation (Physical Sciences) 2014

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Academic and Research StaffProfessor Muthupandian Ashokkumar was elected a Fellow of the Academy of Sciences, Chennai. Fellows are eminent individuals recognised for their knowledge of, or their contribution to, different branches of science and are normally residents of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

Professor David Boger received an Honorary Doctor of Science degree during Bucknell University’s 164th Commencement Ceremony on Sunday 18 May 2014. Bucknell University awards this honour to recognise individuals whose work exemplifies qualities of intellect, character and creativity.

In 2014 the Victoria Prize for Science and Innovation (Physical Sciences) was awarded to Professor Frank Caruso. This prestigious prize highlights the many ways in which research and development of international significance are conducted in Victoria and is awarded to outstanding science leaders. Frank won the prize for his work focusing on the development and application of nanotechnologies to develop tiny capsules, loaded with therapeutic agents, which can be targeted to specific tissues and cells in the body. “Nanomedicine” has the potential to supersede current therapeutics and significantly improve healthcare and medical outcomes. http://www.veski.org.au/Frank-Caruso-video

Frank Caruso was listed as one of Thomson Reuters Highly Cited Researchers in the field of materials science. Researchers appearing on the highly cited list are internationally renowned experts in their fields, who have published the highest numbers of articles that rank among the top 1% most cited for their subject field and year of publication.

Professor George Franks and Dr Carolina Tallon were part of a team lead by the Defence Materials Technology Centre (DMTC) that won the Land Defence Australia National Industry Innovation Award at the Land Forces Conference in Brisbane in September 2014. The Boron Carbide Body Armour project includes members from DMTC, CSIRO, Australian Defence Apparel, Victorian Centre for Advanced Material Manufacturing (VCAMM) and Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO). Carolina and George provided critical ceramic processing and property characterisation capability which has proven essential in the commercialisation of this world-leading technology.

Professor Spas Kolev was awarded a Dyason Fellowship for a project entitled, “Novel methods for coating metal substrates with gold nanoparticles using polymer inclusion membranes” to host a visit by Professor Tony Spassov, Dean of the Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Sofia, Bulgaria. The purpose of the Dyason Fellowship is to assist University staff to undertake (or host) a short-term international visit that fosters significant and lasting research collaborations with leading international researchers, their academic networks and consortia.

Two of our members won University of Melbourne Excellence Awards in 2014. PFPC Director Professor Geoff Stevens was awarded the Patricia Grimshaw Award for Mentor Excellence in recognition of his excellence in the mentoring of University colleagues, both professional and academic. Award recipients are acknowledged for their outstanding contributions as mentors, involving: a sustained record of effective mentoring; exceptional skills in the provision of support and the sharing of knowledge; and respect for the development of colleagues as individuals.

Associate Professor Andrea O’Connor won the Edward Brown Award recognising her outstanding achievements across the various elements that constitute excellence in teaching in higher education: the inspiration and motivation provided to students; contribution to the development of curricula and teaching and learning resources; the high quality practice in assessment of student learning; respect for students as individuals; and the various ways in which her scholarly activities have influenced and enhanced learning and teaching.

Dr Jin (Eric) Shang received the Chancellor’s Prize for his PhD thesis for Science and Engineering. He was awarded the John Melvin Memorial Prize for Best PhD Thesis in the School of Engineering 2013. Eric was supervised by Professor Paul Webley, with a PhD thesis topic of Novel Separation Mechanism for CO2 Capture – Molecular Trapdoor Effect. During his PhD he discovered a new separation mechanism which changed our understanding of how adsorbents discriminate between molecules in gases. His work forms the basis of ongoing research program, now funded by the Australian Research Council (ARC).

Jin was a finalist UNSW Energy Future Collaborative Innovation Awards 2014 in the “Smart adsorbents for gas separation” category. He was awarded the 2013 Chinese Government Award

for Outstanding Self-Financed Students Abroad. The ceremony was held on 29 April 2014.

Postgraduate StudentsJaimys Arnott was awarded the top award for a poster presentation at the 50th Anniversary 17th International Congress on Marine Corrosion and Fouling, Singapore, 6-10 July.

Steven Harris Wibowo won the “Popular Vote” for his poster presentation at the 2014 IUPAC World Polymer Congress (MACRO 2014), Chiang Mai, Thailand, 6-11 July. Steven is also part of a team that has reached the semi-finals of the OneStart life sciences and health care accelerator, organised by SR One and the Oxbridge Biotech Roundtable (OBR). Their entry, Eira Biotech, Nanocarrier technology: Delivering neurotrophic factors beyond the blood-brain barrier, is the only Australian team within 70 shortlisted from the almost 650 applications received from around the world.

Tim Henderson won the best moderated poster presentation prize at the Frontiers in Human Engineering Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21 August.

Javad Jafari won the Best Poster Award for his presentation at the 23rd Annual Conference of the Australasian Society for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering (ASBTE 2014), Lorne, VIC, Australia, 22-24 April.

Kezia Kezia was awarded Best Poster Presentation Award, 2nd Year Student for her presentation Membrane distillation: Saline waste effluent concentration and crystallization at the 4th Membrane Society of Australasia Early Career Researcher Symposium, Geelong, VIC, Australia, 19-21 November.

Jinguk Kim was awarded People’s Choice Award for Best Presentation for his presentation “ Development of CO2 selective ultra-thin TFC membranes via CAP nanotechnology for industrial use.” at the 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.

Nouman Mirza was awarded the People’s Choice Award for his poster “Estimation of critical properties of deep eutectic solvents” at the 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.

Samuel Skinner’s poster won the Best Poster Prize at the 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.

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Willie Tang was awarded the Best Student Poster Award for his poster “Porphyrin-based polymers with improved oxygen selectivity for air separation applications” at the 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.

Leonie Van ‘t Hag was awarded a poster prize at Bicontinuous Cubic Phases Conference (satellite meeting to the 2014 International Biophysics Congress), Noosa, QLD, Australia, 30 July-2 August. She also received a Travel Award from the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) to attend the 8th AOFSRR Cheiron School, Hyogo, Japan, 23 September-2 October.

Brant Walkley received an Overseas Research Experience Scholarship from the University of Melbourne ($4993) to assist with expenses associated with a four month trip to Europe and the UK. He spent three months at the Cement Materials Science and Engineering Group, The University of Sheffield, as well as numerous lab visits to the Warwick Solid State NMR Group, Department of Physics, The University of Warwick. He attended the 5th International Conference on Non-Traditional Cement & Concrete, Brno, Czech Republic, 16-19 June and during his trip he was awarded first prize for the Best Student Paper award for his contribution titled “Stoichiometrically controlled C-A-S-H/N-A-S-H gel blends via alkali-activation of synthetic precursors” at the 34th Cement and Concrete Science Conference, Sheffield, England, 14-16 September.

Benjamin Yap was awarded the Young Investigator Award for his presentation at BioProcessing Network Conference, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21-23 October.

Three of our students received awards at the 2014 Australian Institute of Energy National Postgraduate Student Energy Awards in October: Benjamin Yap - Best Project Simon Takouridis - Highly Commended Frank Wu - Group A (Carbon Reduction) Highly Commended This was a national poster competition promoting interaction of postgraduate research students with the energy community.

The Clive Pratt Scholarships are made possible through a bequest in memory of Henry Reginald Clive Pratt. The Travel Scholarships are open for award annually, for students in Chemical Engineering and/or Biomolecular Engineering at the University. In 2014 the recipients were Mattias Björnmalm, Joel Scofield, Sylvia Gunawan and Willie Tang.

David Danaci was awarded the Best Tutor in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Semester 1 2014. PFPC students Sui So, Hui-En Teo and Shu Lam received honourable mentions for this award.

Will Ng and Yi Ju were awarded the Best Tutor in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Semester 2 2014. PFPC students Armineh Hassanvand, Sui So and Joel Yong received honourable mentions for this award.

Academic Promotions Raymond Dagastine was promoted to Professor

University Portfolio Holders Muthupandian Ashokkumar, Associate Dean (Engagement and International), Faculty of Science

Raymond Dagastine, Deputy Director of the Melbourne Materials Institute

Sandra Kentish, Head of Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

Andrea O’Connor, Deputy Head of Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

Greg Qiao, Assistant Dean (Research), Melbourne School of Engineering

Peter Scales, Deputy Dean, Melbourne School of Engineering

Geoff Stevens, Associate Dean (Engagement), Melbourne School of Engineering

Serving the Scientific Community Conference Contributions Muthupandian Ashokkumar Advisory Committee Member: Frontier Technologies in Waste Management, Pune, India, 15-17 January.

Scientific Advisory Committee member: International Food Congress - Novel Approaches in Food Industry (NAFI 2014), Kusadasi, Turkey, 26-19 May.

International Scientific Advisory Committee member: 14th Meeting of the European Sonochemical Society, Avignon, France, June 2-6.

Session Chair: 14th Meeting of the European Sonochemical Society, Avignon, France, June 2-6.

Rachel Caruso Porous Materials Symposium Organiser: 3rd Biennial Conference of the Combined Australian Materials Society (CAMS 2014), Sydney, NSW, Australia, 26-28 November.

Session Chair: Porous Materials Symposium, 3rd Biennial Conference of the Combined Australian Materials Society

(CAMS 2014), Sydney, NSW, Australia, 26-28 November.

Raymond Dagastine Co-Chair: 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February.

Moderator: Colloidal and Surface Forces 1: Entropic Systems, 88th ACS Annual Colloids and Surface Science Symposium, Philadelphia, PA, USA, 22-25 June.

Sandra Kentish Local Organising Committee: 13th International Conference on Inorganic Membranes, Brisbane, QLD, Australia, 6-9 July.

Robert Lamb Session Chair: New Approaches for Antifouling, 17th International Congress on Marine Corrosion and Fouling, Singapore, 6-10 July.

Andrea O’Connor Member of the Organising Committee of the 23rd Annual Conference of the Australasian Society for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering (ASBTE 2014), Lorne, VIC, Australia, 22-24 April 2014

Appointed member of the Organising Committee of the 9th International Mesostructured Materials Symposium (IMMS-9), Brisbane, QLD, Australia, August 2015

Member of the Organising Committee of the Frontiers in Human Engineering Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21 August.

Session Chair: Scaffolds and Biomaterials, Frontiers in Human Engineering Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21 August.

Greg Qiao Member, Conference Committee: 35th Australasian Polymer Symposium (35APS), Gold Coast, QLD, Australia, 12-15 July.

Peter Scales Chair, Organising Committee of the 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.

Session Chair: 7A Colloids, Suspensions and Emulsions, 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.

Geoff Stevens Member, Symposium Advisory Committee: 2014 Australia-China Symposium on Energy, Taiyuan, China, 13-15 May.

Session Chair: Hydrometallurgy and metals extractions, ISEC 2014 International Solvent Extraction Conference, Würzburg, Germany, 7-11 September.

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Anthony Stickland Co-Chair: 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February.

Member of the Organising Committee of the 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.

Theme Organiser: Colloids, Suspensions and Emulsions, 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.

Session Chair: 1A Colloids, Suspensions and Emulsions, 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.

Member, International Committee: Particulate Systems Analysis PSA 2014 Conference and Exhibition, Manchester, UK, 15-17 September.

Jannie van Deventer Member of International Scientific Committee of the Second International Conference on Advances in Chemically Activated Materials (CAM ’2014), Changsha, China, 1-3 June.

Member of Advisory Panel of the 5th International Conference on Non-Traditional Cement & Concrete, Brno, Czech Republic, 16-19 June.

Co-Chair of WasteEng 2014: 5th International Conference on Engineering for Waste and Biomass Valorisation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 25-28 August.

Member of Advisory Committee of the XXVII International Mineral Processing Congress, Santiago, Chile, 20-24 October.

Session co-chair: Session 4, Second International Conference on Advances in Chemically-Activated Materials (CAM’2014), Changsha, China, 1-3 June.

Session co-chair: F1 - Metals Valorisation (I), 5th International Conference on Engineering for Waste and Biomass Valorisation (WasteEng 2014), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 25-28 August.

Session co-chair: I5 - Towards sustainable waste management (II), 5th International Conference on Engineering for Waste and Biomass Valorisation (WasteEng 2014), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 25-28 August.

Editorial Board Appointments Muthupandian Ashokkumar Editorial Board Member of the Elsevier journal Ultrasonics Sonochemistry

Editorial Board Member of the Journal of Photocatalysis Science

Frank Caruso Member of the Editorial Advisory Board

of the Wiley-VCH journal Advanced Functional Materials, 2001-present

Member of the Editorial Advisory Board of the Dove Medical Press journal International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2006-present

Member of the Editorial Advisory Board of Nano Today, 2009-present

Member of Editorial Advisory Board of the Elsevier journal Advances in Colloidal and Interface Science, since 2010

Member of the Editorial Advisory Board of the Wiley-VCH journal Advanced Materials: Advanced Healthcare Materials, since 2011

Member of the Editorial Advisory Board of the RSC Publishing journal Biomaterials Science, from 2013

Member of the Editorial Advisory Board, American Chemical Society journal ACS Nano, since 2013

Member of the International Advisory Board, Angewandte Chemie (Wiley-VCH), since 2014

Rachel Caruso Member of the Editorial Advisory Board of the RSC Publishing journal Materials Horizons, from 2013

Raymond Dagastine Member of the Editorial Advisory Board of the Elsevier journal Journal of Colloid and InterfaceScience, since 2012

George Franks Member of the Editorial Board for the Elsevier journal Advanced Powder Technology, since 2006

Neil Furlong Member of the Editorial Board of Colloid and Surfaces A (Elsevier)

Dalton Harvie Member of the Editorial Board for the Elsevier journal Advanced Powder Technology

Tom Healy Founding Editor and Member of the Editorial Board of Colloid and Surfaces A (Elsevier)

Sandra Kentish Editorial Board Member of Recent Innovations in Chemical Engineering (Bentham Science), 2007-present

Editorial Board Member of Food Engineering Reviews (Springer), 2008-present

Editorial Board Member of the International Journal of Polymer Science (Hindawi), from 2014.

Greg Qiao Member of the International Advisory Board for Macromolecular Bioscience (Wiley)

Member of the International Advisory Board for Macromolecular Materials and Engineering (Wiley)

Peter Scales Member of the Editorial Board of Colloid and Surfaces A (Elsevier), 1998-present

Member of the Editorial Board of Transactions of the Filtration Society, 2003-present

Member of the Advisory Board of the Elsevier journal Advanced Powder Technology, 2008-present

Geoff Stevens Member of the Editorial Board of the Elsevier journal Hydrometallurgy, 1994-present

Member of the Editorial Board of the Chemical Engineering Journal (Elsevier), 1999-present

Jannie van Deventer Member of the Editorial Advisory Board of the Elsevier journal Minerals Engineering, since 1992

Member of the Editorial Board of the Elsevier journal Hydrometallurgy, 2001-present

Paul Webley Member of the Editorial Board and Separations Subject Editor, Chemical Engineering Research and Design, a publication of the Institution of Chemical Engineers.

Editorial Roles Muthupandian Ashokkumar Guest Editor: Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, Volume 21, Issue 6, Pages 1907-2184 (November 2014), Special Issue AOSS 2013.

Rachel Caruso Appointed Associate Editor of the RSC Publishing journal Chemical Communications

Frank Caruso Editor, American Chemical Society journal Chemistry of Materials, since 2005

Raymond Dagastine Associate Editor for the open access journal Frontiers in Chemistry (Chemical Engineering specialty)

George Franks Associate Editor, Journal of the American Ceramic Society (Wiley), since 2004

Franz Grieser Editor, Colloid and Surfaces A (Elsevier), from 2013

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Michelle Gee Review Editor for the open access journal Frontiers in Chemistry (Chemical Biology specialty), from 2014

Andrea O’Connor Associate Editor, Journal of Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, from 2011

Peter Scales Regional Editor, Australia, Journal of Dispersion Science and Technology (Taylor & Francis), since 2002

Geoff Stevens Associate Editor of the Taylor & Francis journal Solvent Extraction and Ion Exchange, 1996-present

Associate Editor-in-chief, Chinese Journal of Chemical Engineering, from 2013

Anthony Stickland Review Editor for the open access journal Frontiers in Chemistry (Chemical Engineering specialty), from 2014

Jannie van Deventer Founding Associate Editor, Waste and Biomass Valorisation, since 2009

Paul Webley Editor, Separation and Purification Technology, from 2014

Other Roles Muthupandian Ashokkumar Board Member of the European Society of Sonochemistry Member of the International Association for Radiation Research International Advisor to the Center for Environment Education and Technology

Raymond Dagastine is a regular guest host on the radio 3RRR Sunday science program Einstein-a-go-go with an audience of approximately 100,000 listeners.

Sally Gras is a member of the Expert Working Group on research topic 1 “Australia’s comparative advantage” of the Australian Council of Learned Academies (ACOLA) strategic research programme Securing Australia’s Future.

Tom Healy Member, Review Board, Ian Wark Research Institute (The Wark), University of South Australia

Member, Scientific Advisory Committee, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), University of Queensland

Sandra Kentish Research Advisory Committee: National Centre of Excellence in Desalination, April 2010 onwards

Peter Scales Council member of the Australian Society of Rheology, since 2002

Australian representative, International Society of Rheology, since 2006

Board Member, Water Resources Center for Agriculture and Mining (CRHIAM), CONICYT/FONDAP Project, Santiago, Chile

Geoff Stevens Secretary General of the International Committee for Solvent Extraction, since 1996

International Honorary Member of the Japan Society of Ion Exchange (JSIE), 2011-present

External Independent Director, Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (ITRI) Board, Deakin University, Australia, 2011-2014

Director, O’Brien Institute and O’Brien Foundation

Anthony Stickland Council member of the Australian Society of Rheology, since 2010

Carolina Tallon Federal Councillor: Australian Ceramic Society, since 2012

Editor of the Newsletter of the Australian Ceramic Society, since 2012

Paul Webley Member of the Board of Directors, International Adsorption Society, since 2010

Public Outreach and Publicity Associate Professor Sally Gras and the ARC Dairy Innovation Hub were featured in the following press articles: FarmPoint Information for Tasmanian Farmers: New research hub for the Australian Dairy Industry, http:www.farmpoint.tas.gov.au/farmpoint.nsf/news/, July 2014

The Weekly Times: http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/business/dairy/arc-dairy-innovation-hub-at-werribee-serves-cream-of-dairy-research/story-fnkeqg0i-1226989932038, 16 July 2014Food Magazine: http://www.foodmag.com.au/news/new-research-hub-to-improve-dairy-innovation, 22 July 2014Australian Food News: http://ausfoodnews.com.au/2014/07/23/new-arc-dairy-innovation-hub-set-to-improve-dairy-products.html, 23 July 2014Food & Drink Business: http://www.foodanddrinkbusiness.com.au/news/new-

dairy-hub-created-to-boost-product-innovation, 23 July 2014Food Processing: http://www.foodprocessing.com.au/news/68810-Dairy-research-to-help-Australia-meet-growing-dairy-demand, 23 July 2014The Loop, Bio 21 Newsletter, Paving the way for dairy innovations, Spring Edition 2014The Chemical Engineer Today: Australia launches dairy ‘innovation hub’, Issue 879, p18, September 2014

Sally Gras also appeared on Breakfast with Red Symons, ABC radio 774, 3 March 14, where she provided commentary on the Second IDF Symposium on Microstructure of Dairy Products, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 3-4 March.

Dr Kathryn Mumford appeared on ABC 7.30 Victoria commenting on soil contamination at a South Melbourne park. http://mobile.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-04/park-users-urge-caution-on-soil-contamination/5573614

Dr Carolina Tallon featured on the cover of the American Ceramic Society Bulletin, 93, (8). Carolina’s and Professor George Franks’ research was mentioned in the accompanying article Ceramics in Australia: Raw and advanced materials drive Land Down Under’s global reach by A. Talavera and R.B. Hecht.

Members of the PFPC, the University of Melbourne, CSIRO and RMIT University teamed with colleagues from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) – Indian Institute of Petroleum to obtain workshop funding from the Australia-India Strategic Research Fund (AISRF). The Workshop “Bio-jet Fuel – A Key to Future Green and Sustainable Aviation” was held at the CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum in Dehradun, north-west of New Delhi on 28th February to 1st March 2014. The Workshop attracted some media attention with articles published both in India and Australia.

Voice: http://voice.unimelb.edu.au/volume-10/number-4/greening-skiesThe Hindu: http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/new-process-to-make-bioaviation-fuel-cheaper/article5743796.eceDaily Pioneer: http://www.dailypioneer.com/state-editions/dehradun/india-australia-ink-pact-on-renewable-aviation-fuel.htmlGarhwal Post: Workshop on “Bio-Jet Fuel” begins at IIP, 1 March 2014

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Dr Fatin Hasan (far right) hosts visitors from India’s CSIR – Indian Institute of Petroleum

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The PFPC has developed an extensive network of collaborations across universities, industry and publicly funded research organisations. Our collaborative network is highly advantageous in advancing our research by providing our staff and students the opportunity to visit and share research facilities and scientific knowledge. A tangible measure of the success of our networks is the number of joint publications and funding grants that result from these collaborations. In a number of instances this network has assisted with the recruitment of postdoctoral research fellows and the employment of PFPC graduates. A number of our active collaborations are highlighted.

Networks

Dr M.O. Garg, Director of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) – Indian Institute of Petroleum with Professor

Geoff Stevens.

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International LinksPartnerships with Indian Institute of Petroleum and Bharat Petroleum Professor Paul Webley, Dr Fatin Hasan, Dr Tejas Bhatelia and Ms Fan Wu have engaged in a 3 year Grand Challenges project to develop a clean burning synthetic fuel. The project team, which consists of CSIRO, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Petroleum (CSIR-IIP), the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT-Roorkee), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, RMIT University and the University of Melbourne, will work with producers and refineries to deploy the technology, resulting in opportunities for Australia and India to develop capabilities and manufacturing in this sector, with the possibility for new industries to emerge.The project, named “Mini-DME for Stranded Gas Applications” is a new research partnership. The $2.5 million partnership focuses on improving processes involved in the production of dimethyl ether (DME), an environmentally friendly liquid fuel produced from resources including natural gas, coal, biomass, or directly from carbon dioxide. Dimethyl ether has the potential to provide substantial economic benefits to Australia and India by reducing the need to import petroleum products. The project focuses specifically on reducing the size of gas-to-liquids (GTL) processing plants, making them small enough to be mobile and to fit on offshore platforms, allowing natural gas to be converted to transportable fuel at the source.The three-year project is jointly funded by the Australian and Indian governments, through the Australia-India Strategic Research Fund (AISRF) Grand Challenges Initiative.Members of the PFPC, the University of Melbourne, CSIRO and RMIT University teamed with colleagues from the CSIR-IIP to obtain workshop funding from the AISRF. The Workshop “Bio-jet Fuel – A Key to Future Green and Sustainable Aviation” was held at the CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum in Dehradun, north-west of New Delhi on 28th February to 1st March 2014. The workshop brought together leading aviation and biofuel experts from the University of Melbourne, CSIRO and RMIT with those at the CSIR-IIP and CSIR-Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute. Representatives were also present from major companies such as industrial firm Reliance, Canadian aerospace manufacturer Pratt & Whitney, Virgin Australia and petrol giant Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited

(HPCL), as well as two pilots from Air India. Both feedstock availability and technologies for conversion to bio-jet fuel were considered in the global context, with focus given to finding areas of mutual compatibility between Australia and India. Emphasis was given to areas of complementary science and engineering strengths between the two countries including Indian success at bio-jet fuel production and Australia’s feedstock potential and emerging conversion technologies. The discussions that began at the workshop have led to ongoing collaborative efforts that will help move us towards producing bio-jet fuels in an economically viable and environmentally sustainable manner.

Australia-China Joint Research Centre on River Basin Management (ACJRCRBM) The Australian Government’s Department of Environment has funded six new research centres between Australia and China. The ACJRCRBM is led by Professor Peter Scales and looks to bring researchers and industry from both countries together to improve the delivery of water to agriculture in China and develop technologies for identifying water pollution and treating water to potable standard for re-use. The centre involves a number of researchers from the PFPC as well as other researchers from the University of Melbourne and CSIRO. It has developed a strong research overlap with Tsinghua University, Beijing, China particularly with the Department of Civil and Hydraulic Engineering and the School of Environment. The interaction also involves two institutes of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and five other government, semi-government and industrial organisations in China.

Remediation of petroleum contaminated soils, Kanazawa Institute of Technology, Japan Professor Geoff Stevens holds an Adjunct Professorial appointment at Kanazawa Institute of Technology, Japan where he collaborates with Professor Yu Komatsu in the Environmental Engineering Department and is involved in the supervision of a number of Masters and PhD students in the area of environmental remediation and materials development. There has been an ongoing exchange of researchers between the PFPC and KIT. A Memorandum of Understanding signed by the two institutes formalises the exchange arrangement.

The Centre for Water, Earth and the Environment (INRS), Quebec, Canada Professor Sandra Kentish is collaborating with the Centre for Water, Earth and the Environment (INRS) in Quebec, Canada to develop a process for the sequestration of carbon dioxide into a mineral form. This work has now advanced to a pilot plant scale, with a 20 litre facility operating at the Holcim Joliette cement plant in Quebec. A patent has been filed to protect the intellectual property that has been developed (Mercier, Blais, Puthiya, Pasquier, Cecchi, Kentish, Carbon Dioxide Chemical Sequestration Of Industrial Emissions By Carbonation Using Magnesium Or Calcium Silicates, World Patent, 2013131193 A1, Canadian Patent 2771111 A1). Sandra has been appointed as an invited Professor of the INRS since 2011 in recognition of her contribution to this work.

Collaboration with the Cement Materials Science and Engineering Group at The University of Sheffield, UK Continuing collaboration between the Geopolymer and Mineral Processing Group (GMPG) within the PFPC and the Cement Materials Science and Engineering Group (CMSEG) at The University of Sheffield focuses on the development, characterisation and exploitation of advanced and non-traditional cement and concrete technology. Many projects involve alkali-activated and geopolymer binders, for use in construction, infrastructure and waste immobilisation applications. The collaboration involves co-supervision of a number of PhD students both at the University of Melbourne and The University of Sheffield and exchange of PhD students between the Geopolymer and Mineral Processing Group and the Cement Materials Science and Engineering Group.

Links with IndustryCallington Haven, Australia Professor Sandra Kentish has been working with this company to develop new formulations of their insecticides using ultrasound.

Dairy Innovation Australia Ltd (DIAL) The ARC Dairy Innovation Hub brings together three of Australia’s leading dairy research groups, the University of Melbourne, the University of Queensland and DIAL, in a five-year research program co-funded by the Australian Research

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Council (ARC). The Hub was established in early 2014, following receipt of a grant of $5 million from the ARC Industrial Transformation Research Program in May 2013. The ARC Dairy Innovation Hub was one of the first ITRP grants awarded nationally. The Hub has been structured to address some of the major dairy research and technical challenges that DIAL and its member companies have identified as constraints to business growth and productivity in the dairy manufacturing sector. The Hub program comprises six integrated, strategic research themes, employing innovative science and engineering approaches to address the technical challenges for the dairy manufacturing industry. Under the leadership of the Hub Director, Associate Professor Sally Gras, theme leaders are taking responsibility for projects in their specialist areas. Over the five years, ten postdoctoral fellows, graduate research assistants as well as at least three PhD students will join the teams. Each project involves multiple investigators from each of the three research groups leveraging synergies between research teams. International collaboration will provide access to skills and technologies developed overseas to achieve the Hub’s objectives.

GlaxoSmithKline, Australia Professor Geoff Stevens has a long and ongoing relationship with a range of companies operating in Australia. These relationships are centred around key technologies developed by Geoff and his team which the companies access as a resource to supply critical knowledge and support. Geoff has nurtured such relationships and the companies have employed many of his graduates over the years. An example in the pharmaceutical industry is GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in Australia where Geoff serves on the GSK International Science Innovation and Review Committee, Opiates Division, and has ongoing research programs with them. GlaxoSmithKline’s alkaloids business in Australia is a significant rural business generating export earnings for Australia. More than 95% of the refined product from this facility is exported. Geoff has been working together with GSK on various aspects of separation technology for the past 20 years with a range of important outcomes, including the development of a new extraction plant for Oripavine which is now in operation.

HRL Technologies, Australia We have been growing links with this

company, through student-based internships. As part of this arrangement, Professor Sandra Kentish spent one day per week working within the HRL offices during the latter part of 2014. This allowed her to better understand the company mission and culture.

MBD Energy and Visy, Australia PFPC researchers Dr Anthony Stickland, Professor Peter Scales and Associate Professor Antoinette Tordesillas, with Professor Robin Batterham, are investigating a novel concept for the dewatering of algal biomass and waste recycling streams through the use of combined shear and compression. The addition of shear during dewatering can significantly enhance the efficiency of the process. A configuration that is easily scalable is high pressure grinding rolls, albeit designed and operated in a novel fashion. This work involves two projects, one with MBD Energy in collaboration with the Victorian Government via a Technology Development Voucher, and the other with Visy in collaboration with the Carlton Connect Initiative Fund. The projects aim to design, construct and commission novel, prototype high pressure dewatering rolls to demonstrate that combining compression and shear can deliver a high throughput and flexible dewatering process.

Melbourne Water, Australia Researchers Professor Peter Scales, Associate Professor Sally Gras, Dr Gregory Martin, Dr Anthony Stickland and Dr Shane Usher have now developed a strong research association with Melbourne Water in the areas of foam regulation in wastewater treatment and dry stacking of wastewater treatment sludges. These projects are funded through an ARC Linkage Project along with SA Water and Water Corporation of Western Australia in the case of foam regulation. This project looks to use bacteriophages to specifically target foam stabilising bacteria and involves LaTrobe University, Bendigo. The dry stacking project is also funded as an ARC Linkage Project and looks to bring technology from the minerals industry across to the wastewater industry by reducing the land requirements for solids disposal.

Links with National Publicly Funded Research OrganisationsAustralian Antarctic Division (AAD) Dr Kathryn Mumford and Professor Geoff Stevens have strong ties with the AAD through projects funded out of the AAD science program. Working with

Professor Ian Snape (AAD) and Associate Professor Damian Gore (Maquarie University), the team are demonstrating that contaminated sites in Antarctica can be effectively and economically remediated in situ with low risk of adverse environmental impacts. The sequential permeable reactive barrier (PRB) installed at the Main Power House site at Casey Station Antarctica demonstrates a low cost bioremediation technology that can be easily installed and achieves positive environmental outcomes in a timely manner. During the past summer season the technology was expanded to treat a fuel spill at Macquarie Island station.A project involving the development of an advanced water treatment plant to produce water of such a quality as to ensure that discharges from Antarctic bases do not harm the marine environment is being led by Professor Peter Scales along with colleagues from Victoria University, AECOM, Veolia, Coliban Water, Curtin University and CAPIM at the University of Melbourne. Subsidiary funding is supplied by the Australian Water Recycle Centre of Excellence. The plant is being tested in Tasmania and will be transferred to Davis Station in Antarctica.

Partnerships with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) The PFPC has long had links with the CSIRO. Many of our alumni have held positions with the organisation and PFPC member Associate Professor Rachel Caruso is an Office of the Chief Executive Science Leader within CSIRO Manufacturing Flagship. From 2012 a number of our postgraduate students were jointly supervised by researchers from the PFPC and CSIRO. Outstanding joint students were awarded scholarships through the CSIRO-Melbourne Materials Institute Materials Science PhD Scholarship Program (pp 46-51). In addition, Professor Peter Scales received renewal of funding to continue work on AMIRA project P266, Improving Thickener Technology. This project has been going since 1991 and the PFPC has been strongly associated since 2003. The project is led by Dr Phil Fawell from CSIRO Process Science and Engineering.

Defence Materials Technology Centre (DMTC) Professor George Franks and Dr Carolina Tallon have strong ties to the Australian Defence Force through projects funded by the Defence Materials Technology Centre. They work with collaborators in BAE systems, DSTO, ANSTO, University of

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Queensland and Swinburne University on development of ultra-high temperature materials for hypersonic rocket applications such as the leading edges and combustors of such vehicles. George and Carolina also have a role in a project to develop personal protective systems (armour) in collaboration with researchers in Australian Defence Apparel, CSIRO, DSTO and VCAMM. The project won the National Industry Innovation Award of Land Defence Australia, presented at the Land Forces conference in September, 2014 in Brisbane for Light Weight Boron Carbide Personal Armour.

Tissue engineering and The O’Brien Institute PFPC researchers Professor Geoff Stevens, Associate Professor Andrea O’Connor and Professor Greg Qiao have a strong collaboration in the area of tissue engineering with a multidisciplinary team of researchers led by Professor Wayne Morrison at the O’Brien Institute (OBI). The PFPC is expert in the development and testing of biomaterial constructs for the culture and differentiation of cells used in regenerative medicine. We are playing a major role in researching tissue engineering with OBI. In particular,

members of the PFPC are instrumental in the development of biomaterials as well as the design and fabrication of medical devices and tissue engineering constructs, including controlled delivery vehicles, bioreactors, scaffolds and hydrogels. We also undertake investigations of in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility and biostability, cell and tissue interactions with biomaterials, surface modification and optimisation of our biomaterial constructs for particular applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Associate Professor Andrea O’Connor with MIT collaborator Professor T. Alan Hatton.

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National Linkages

Western Australia University of Western AustraliaWater Corporation of WA

South AustraliaBHP Billiton Olympic Dam Corporation Pty LtdIan Wark Research InstituteSA WaterSouth Australian Research and Development InstituteUniversity of AdelaideUniversity of South AustraliaUranium One Australia Pty Ltd

VictoriaAECOM Australia Pty LtdAMIRA (27 companies)AnatomicsATC WilliamsAustralian Defence Apparel Pty LtdBAE Systems AustraliaBaker IDI Heart and Diabetes InstituteBHP Billiton LtdBilfingerBio21Bionics InstituteCSIROCSL BioplasmaDairy Innovation Australia Ltd (DIAL)Deakin UniversityDefence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO)Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning (State Government)GlaxoSmithKlineLa Trobe UniversityMars Petcare AustraliaMelbourne WaterMetabolomics AustraliaMonash UniversityO’Brien InstituteProcess SolutionsRio Tinto LtdRMIT UniversityRoyal Children’s HospitalRoyal Melbourne HospitalSt Vincent’s HospitalSwinburne University of TechnologyVeolia AustraliaVictoria UniversityVictorian Centre for Advanced Materials ManufacturingYates Technical Services Pty LtdZeobond Pty Ltd

New South WalesAustralian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO)Callington Haven P/LMacquarie UniversityUniversity of NSWUniversity of NewcastleUniversity of Sydney

ACTAustralian National University

QueenslandInternational Water CentreUniversity of Queensland

TasmaniaAustralian Antarctic Division

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International Linkages

USAAsylum Research Bucknell University Carnegie Mellon University Cornell University ERC for Particle Science & Technology, Florida Georgia Tech Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Northwestern University Oakridge National Laboratory SCG Energia University of California, Berkeley University of California, Santa Barbara University of Delaware University of Florida University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign University of Notre Dame University of Washington Vanderbilt University Virginia Tech Worcester Polytechnic Institute

CanadaL’Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique University of Alberta

ChileUniversidad de Concepción

ChinaChinese Academy of Sciences

Huaneng Clean Energy Research Institute (CERI) Nanjing University of Science and Technology

National Institute of Clean-and-low-carbon Energy (NICE) Northeastern University

Shanghai Jiao Tong University Tianjin University

Tsinghua University

FranceInserm Strasburg Institut Charles Sadron Université de Franche-Comté Université Joseph Fourier

GermanyKarlsruhe Institute of Technology Max-Plank Institute for Colloids and Interfaces Max-Plank Institute for Polymer Research Philipps-Universität Marburg Technical University of Munich University of Göttingen University of Heidelberg

IndiaCSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum

Indian Institute of Technology Jadavpur University

National Institute of Technology University Institute of Chemical Technology

University of Madras

IrelandUniversity College Dublin

IsraelTechnion – Israel Institute of Technology

ItalyFondazione IRCSS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori Università degli Studi di Roma “La Sapienza” University of Milan

JapanAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (WPI-AIMR)

International Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics (WPI-MANA) International Institute for Carbon-Neutral Energy Research (WPI-I2CNER)

Kanazawa Institute of Technology Kitakyushu Foundation for Advancement of Industry, Science and Technology

Kyoto University Kyushu University

Meiji University Nagoya University

National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS)

Okayama University Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology

Osaka Prefecture University Shinshu University Tohoku University

Tokyo Institute of Technology University of Miyazaki University of Tsukuba

KoreaHanyang University

Korea Carbon Capture and Sequestration R&D Center (KCRC) Korea University

Korean Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) Myongji University

Seoul National University SungKyunKwan University

New ZealandThe University of Aukland

Saudi ArabiaKing Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)

ThailandChiang Mai University

SingaporeInstitute of High Performance Computing

Nanyang Technological UniversityNational University of Singapore

Singapore Polytechnic

UKMRC Centre for Regenerative MedicineMSACT ConsultingThe University of WarwickUniversity of BathUniversity of BristolUniversity of LeedsUniversity of NottinghamUniversity of Sheffield

South AfricaUniversity of Stellenbosch

SpainCIC biomaGUNE

SwedenLinkoping UniversityLund UniversityStockholm University

SwitzerlandETH ZürichUniversity of Basel

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Presentations

Associate Professor Sally Gras

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Keynote and Plenary LecturesAshokkumar, M. (2014) Applications of ultrasound in food and bioprocessing. 14th Meeting of the European Sonochemical Society, Avignon, France, 2-6 June. (Plenary lecture)Baba, Y., Goto, M., Cattrall, R.W. and Kolev, S.D. (2014) Recovery of cobalt ions using a polymer inclusion membrane contained a new amide acid type extractant. Society of Chemical Engineers Japan (SCEJ) 79th Annual Meeting, Gifu, Japan, 18-20 March. (Plenary lecture)Caruso, F. (2014) Biological sensing and processing of engineered particles. World Congress on Biosensors 2014, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 26-30 May. (Plenary lecture)Caruso, F. (2014) Engineered particles for nanomedicine: Why and where next? Nanotechnology and Medicines for Tomorrow Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20 November. (Keynote speaker)Caruso, F. (2014) Layer-by-layer assembled particles: Prospects and challenges. ISACS15 Challenges in Nanoscience, San Diego, CA, USA, 17-20 August. (Plenary lecture)Caruso, F. (2014) Nanoscale engineering of particles for therapeutic delivery. 5th Pioneer NanoSeoul Forum 2014, Yonsei, South Korea, 10 October. (Plenary lecture)Caruso, R.A., Chen, D., Huang, F. Cao, L. and Cheng, Y.-B. (2014) Controlling the structure and porosity of materials for use as the photoanode in dye-sensitized solar cells. 65th Annual Meeting of the International Society of Electrochemistry, Lausanne, Switzerland, 31 August-5 September. (Keynote speaker)Dagastine, R.R. (2014) Interactions between drops and bubbles in complex fluids. UK Colloids 2014: An International Colloid and Interface Science Symposium, London, UK, 6-9 July. (Plenary lecture)Freidman, B., Mumford, K., Gras, S. and Stevens, G. (2014) Nutrient release from ion-exchange materials: implications for biodegradation and remediation in cold regions. International Conference of Ion Exchange (ICIE2014), Okinawa, Japan, 9-12-November. (Plenary lecture)Healy, T.W. (2014) The interfacial science of bio-nano systems.. Something old, new, borrowed and blue. NanoBio Australia 2014 incorporating the 5th International NanoBio Conference & 3rd International Conference on BioNano Innovation (ICBNI), Brisbane, QLD, 6-10 July. (Plenary lecture)Kentish, S. (2014) Water vapor permeation through polymeric membranes. 10th International Congress on Membranes and Membrane Processes, Suzhou, China, 20-25 July. (Keynote speaker)Mettu, S. (2014) Motion of liquid drops on surfaces induced by vibration: Role of contact angle hysteresis. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February. (Plenary lecture)Smith, K., Mumford, K., Lee, A., Nicholas, N., Indrawan, I., Gouw, J., Thanumurthy, N., Anderson, C., Harkin, T., Qader, A., Hooper, B., Kentish, S. and Stevens, G.W. (2014) Development of a precipitating solvent absorption process for capturing CO2 from industrial sources. Society of Chemical Engineers Japan (SCEJ) 79th Annual Meeting, Gifu, Japan, 18-20 March. (Plenary lecture)

Smith, K. (2014) Site remedication in Antarctica. Asia-Oceania Top University League on Engineering (AOTULE) 2014 Conference, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 26-28 November. (Plenary lecture)Stevens, G.W. (2014) Global warming, greenhouse gases, energy usage and separations technology. 2014 Australia-China Symposium on Energy, Taiyuan, China, 13-15 May. (Plenary lecture)Stevens, G.W. (2014) The evolution of the process and equipment on solvent extraction. 6th International Conference on Hydrometallurgy (ICHM), Beijing, China, 16-18 October. (Plenary lecture)Stevens, G.W. (2014) Global warming, greenhouse gases, energy usage and separations technology. Engineers Australia Convention 2014, Practical Response to Climate Change (PRCC), Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 24-27 November. (Keynote speaker)Van Deventer, J.S.J., San Nicolas, R., Ismail, I., Bernal, S.A., Brice, D.G. and Provis, J.L. (2014) Implication of microstructure and durability measures for commercial development of alkali-activated concretes. Second International Conference on Advances in Chemically-Activated Materials (CAM’2014), Changsha, China, 1-3 June. (Keynote speaker)Van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Future innovations in mineral processing. Second Australia-China Joint Symposia on Minerals and Metallurgy, Sydney, NSW, Australia, 23-25 July. (Keynote speaker)Van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Low CO2 cement by alkali-activation of fly ash and slag - from materials science to commercial production. 5th International Conference on Engineering for Waste and Biomass Valorisation (WasteEng 2014), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 25-28 August. (Keynote speaker)Van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Commercial implications of phase evolution in alkali-activated concrete. 21st General Meeting of the International Mineralogical Association, Sandton, Gauteng, South Africa, 1-5 September. (Keynote speaker)Van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) A crystal ball vision of innovation in mineral processing. XXVII International Mineral Processing Congress – IMPC 2014, Santiago, Chile, 20-24 October. (Plenary lecture)

Conference and Meeting PresentationsAnderson, C., Hooper, B., Qader, A., Harkin, T., Smith, K., Mumford, K., Pandit, J., Ho, M., Lee, A., Nicholas, N., Indrawan, I., Guow, J., Xiao, G., Thanumurthy, N., Temple, N., Stevens, G. and Wiley, D. (2014). Recent developments in the UNO MK 3 process – A low cost environmentally benign precipitating solvent process for CO2 capture. 12th International Conference on Greenhouse Gas Control Technologies (GHGT12), Austin, TX, USA, 5-9 October.Arnott, J., Nakanishi, K., Wu, A.H.F., Wetherbee, R. and Lamb, R. (2014) Marine fouling from thin air. 17th International Congress on Marine Corrosion and Fouling, Singapore, 6-10 July. (Poster presentation)Baba, Y., Kubota, F., Goto, M., Cattrall, R.W. and Kolev, S.D. (2014) Development of polymer

inclusion membrane with amide acid type extractant for separation of critical metals. International Conference of Ion Exchange (ICIE2014), Okinawa, Japan, 9-12-November.Balasuriya, T., Berger, B., Lenhoff, A., Sandler, S.I. and Dagastine, R. (2014) Interactions between immobilized protein coatings measured using AFM and TIRM at high ionic strength. 88th ACS Annual Colloids and Surface Science Symposium, Philadelphia, PA, USA, 22-25 June. (Invited lecture)Bernal, S.A., Bisschop, J., Van Deventer, J.S.J. and Provis, J.L. (2014) Dry microcracking of alkali-activated slag materials. 34th Cement and Concrete Science Conference, Sheffield, England, 14-16 September.Bianchi, C.L., Cerrato, G., Morandi, S., Pirola, C., Colombo, E. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Comparative studied between different crystalline phases and preparation methods of WO3 for the photodegradation of dyes. 14th Meeting of the European Sonochemical Society, Avignon, France, June 2-6. (Poster presentation)Biswas, D.P., Tran, P.A., Tallon, C. and O’Connor, A.J. (2014) High porosity antimicrobial chitosan composites for application in skin tissue regeneration and wound healing. 23rd Annual Conference of the Australasian Society for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering (ASBTE 2014), Lorne, VIC, Australia, 22-24 April. (Poster presentation)Biswas, D.P., Tran, P.A., Tallon, C. and O’Connor, A.J. (2014) High porosity antimicrobial chitosan composites for application in skin tissue regeneration and wound healing. Frontiers in Human Engineering Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21 August. (Poster presentation)Bolton, C.G. and Dagastine, R.R. (2014) A new technique for sizing particles using frustrated evanescent fields. 88th ACS Annual Colloids and Surface Science Symposium, Philadelphia, PA, USA, 22-25 June.Bolton, C.G. and Dagastine, R.R. (2014) Experimental & theoretical basis for frustrated evanescent wave particle sizing. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February.Brown, K.D., Ozcelik, B., McKelvie, P., Scheerlinck, J.-P., Abberton, K., Blencowe, A., Qiao, G. and Daniell, M.D. (2014) Pre-clinical trial of a tissue engineered corneal endothelium. Frontiers in Human Engineering Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21 August. (Poster presentation)Brown, K.D., Ozcelik, B., McKelvie, P., Zhang, H., Scheerlinck, J.-P., Blencowe, A., Qiao, G., Abberton, K. and Daniell, M.D. (2014) Towards a synthetic/autologous tissue engineered corneal endothelium. 23rd Annual Conference of the Australasian Society for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering (ASBTE 2014), Lorne, VIC, Australia, 22-24 April.Browne, C., Tabor, R., Grieser, F. and Dagastine, R. (2014) Depletion and structural forces in foams: Interactions between bubbles in the presence of polyelectrolytes. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February.Browne, C., Tabor, R., Grieser, F. and Dagastine, R. (2014) Polyelectrolytes and their influence on depletion and structural forces between colliding bubbles. 88th ACS Annual Colloids and

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Surface Science Symposium, Philadelphia, PA, USA, 22-25 June.Burger, S., Gee, M.L. and O’Connor, A.J. (2014) Synthesis of hierarchically porous materials by the co-micelle/emulsion templating method. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February. (Poster presentation)Burger, W., Gras, S., Stickland, A., Martin, G. and Scales, P. (2014) The significance of filamentous bacteria for floc stability. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February. (Poster presentation)Burton, M.G., Huang, Q.M., Hossain, Q.M., Wade, J.D., Clayton, A.H.A. and Gee, M.L. (2014) Probing the interaction dynamics between a model antimicrobial peptide and giant unilamellar vesicles. 2014 International Biophysics Congress, Brisbane, QLD, Australia, 3-7 August.Cao, L., Chen, D. and Caruso, R.A. (2014) Hierarchically Porous titania networks with controllable anatase: Rutile ratios and their enhanced photocatalytic activities. 3rd Biennial Conference of the Combined Australian Materials Society (CAMS 2014), Sydney, NSW, Australia, 26-28 November.Caruso, F. (2014) Biological interactions of layer-by-layer engineered particles. Layer-by-Layer Assemblies: Science and Technology, Hoboken, NJ, USA, 23-24 June. (Invited speaker)Caruso, F. (2014) Layer-by-layer assembled particles in the biological domain. 247th ACS National Meeting & Exposition: Chemistry and Materials for Energy, Dallas, TX, USA, 16-20 March. (Invited speaker)Caruso, F. (2014) Metal-polyphenol networks: From nanoengineered thin films to functional particles. 2014 Gordon Research Conference on Bioinspired Materials, Newry, ME, USA, 22-27 June. (Invited Speaker)Caruso, F. (2014) Nanoscale engineering of polymer carriers for biological interactions. 2014 Gordon Research Conference on Drug Carriers in Medicine & Biology, Waterville Valley, NH, USA, 17-22 August. (Invited speaker)Caruso, F. (2014) Nanoscale engineering of polymer-based particles for cargo delivery. 10th SPSJ International Polymer Conference, Tsukuba, Japan, 2-5 December. (Invited speaker)Caruso, R.A., Li, W., Wang, X. and Choi, J. (2014) Fabrication and application of macroporous membranes and fibrous mats. 3rd Biennial Conference of the Combined Australian Materials Society (CAMS 2014), Sydney, NSW, Australia, 26-28 November. (Invited speaker)Caruso, R.A. (2014) Morphological control of materials for environmental applications. 5th Australian China Symposium for Materials Science, Wollongong, NSW, Australia, 21-23 July. (Invited speaker)Castaneda, C., Stevens, G. and Haese, R. (2014) Reactive barrier formation for CO2 leakage mitigation. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November. (Poster presentation)Cavalieri, F., Bottini, M., Palmieri, G., Tortora, M., Rinaldi, A., Mattei, M. and Rosato, N. (2014) Design, structural characterization and in vivo studies of hyaluronic acid microsponges for

osteoarthritis treatment. Frontiers in Human Engineering Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21 August. (Poster presentation)Chaffee, A., Webley, P., Xiao, P., Singh, R., Shang, J., Maring, B., Danaci, D., Ntiamoah, A., Ling, J. and Tang, W. (2014) Overview of adsorption based CO2 capture: 2010–2014. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Chellappan, S., Scales, P.J. and Stickland, A.D. (2014) Biosludge flow and solid-liquid separation in dry stacking. 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July. (Poster presentation)Chan, D. (2014) Bubbles and hydrophobic interaction between soft surfaces. NANOBUBBLE 2014: Conference on Nanobubbles, Gas-filled Micropancakes and their Applications, Shanghai, China, 21-24 October.Chen, D., Cao, L, Huang, F., Cheng, Y.-B. and Caruso, R.A. (2014) Facile solvothermal synthesis and application of spherical oxide nanostructures. 3rd Biennial Conference of the Combined Australian Materials Society (CAMS 2014), Sydney, NSW, Australia, 26-28 November.Chen, G.Q., Lim, J., Dumee, L., Weeks, M., and Kentish, S. (2014) Electrodialysis for amine contaminant removal and demineralization of dairy effluents. XIV International Symposium on Polymer Electrolytes (ISPE14). Geelong, VIC, Australia, 24-27 August. (Invited speaker)Chen, X., Yan, Y. and Caruso, F. (2014) Engineering fluorescent polydopamine capsules. RACI National Congress, Adelaide, SA, Australia, 7-12 December.Cho, Y., Cattrall, R.W. and Kolev, S.D. (2014) Clean-up of thiocyanate from gold mine tailings waters using a polymer inclusion membrane. International Conference of Ion Exchange (ICIE2014), Okinawa, Japan, 9-12-November.Chung, S., Tran, P., Ercan, B. and Webster, T.J. (2014) Electrospinning silk with selenium nanoparticles for antibacterial skin applications. AIChE 2014 Annual Meeting, Atlanta, GA, USA, 16-21 November.Conn, C., Darmanin, C. Van ‘t Hag, L., Le, T., Mulet, X., Kirby, N., Mudie, S., Hawley, A. and Drummond C.J. (2014) High-throughput synchrotron SAXS studies on lipidic mesophases. Australian Synchrotron User Meeting 2014, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-21 November.Crust, A., Usher, S. and Scales, P. (2014) Compressional rheology of flocculated aggregates with shear induced densification. 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.Crust, A., Usher, S. and Scales, P. (2014) Extraction of aggregate densification parameters via raked settling analysis for the incorporation into thickener modelling. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February. (Poster presentation)Cui, J., Best, J.P., Liang, K., De Rose, R., Yan, Y., Richardson, J.J., Kent, S.J. and Caruso, F. (2014) Nanoengineered polymer hydrogel particles for drug delivery. 23rd Australian Conference on Microscopy and Microanalysis (ACMM23) and the International Conference on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICONN 2014), Adelaide,

SA, Australia, 2-6 February.Dagastine, R.R., Fewkes, C., Browne, C., Tabor, R. and Grieser, F. (2014) Oscillatory structural forces between drops and bubbles. AIChE 2014 Annual Meeting, Atlanta, GA, USA, 16-21 November.Dagastine, R.R. (2014) Using AFM to quantify interactions with soft particles: Drops, bubbles and capsules. Asylum Research Users Forum, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 14-15 July. (Invited speaker)Danaci, D., Singh, R. and Webley, P. (2014) Fluorination of FAU type zeolites for enhanced hydrophobicity. 6th International Federation of European Zeolite Associations (FEZA) Conference, Leipzig, Germany, 8-11 September. (Poster presentation)Danaci, D., Xiao, P., Singh, R., Shang, J. and Webley, P. (2014) An overview of the work undertaken on CO2 separation from natural gas by the adsorbents team from 2010 to now. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Dkhissi, Y., Huang, F., Rubanov, S., Xiao, M., Bach,U., Spiccia, L., Caruso, R. A. and Cheng, Y.-B. (2014) Low temperature processed perovskite planar heterojunction solar cells on polymer substrates. 20th International Conference on Photochemcial Conversion and Storage of Solar Energy, Berlin, Germany, 27 July-1 August.Dkhissi, Y., Huang, F., Rubanov, S., Xiao, M., Bach,U., Spiccia, L., Caruso, R. A., and Cheng, Y.-B. (2014) Flexible planar perovskite planar solar cells on polymer substrates. 9th Aseanian Conference on Dye-Sensitised and Organic Solar Cells (DSC-OPV9), Sydney, NSW, Australia, 8-10 December.Dkhissi, Y., Huang, F., Weerasinghe, H., Bach,U., Spiccia, L., Caruso, R. A., and Cheng, Y.-B. (2014) Flexible perovskite planar solar cells with over 10% efficiency. 2nd Annual Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics (ACAP) Conference, Sydney, NSW, Australia, 11-12 December. (Poster presentation)Dokouhaki, M., Hung, A., Gee, M. and Gras, S.L. (2014) PH-dependent structures and surface activities of chaplin proteins: a simulation study. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February. (Poster presentation)Fewkes, C., Dagastine, R. and Tabor, R. (2014) Investigating structural and depletion forces between soft interfaces in systems of spherical and rod-like micelles. 88th ACS Annual Colloids and Surface Science Symposium, Philadelphia, PA, USA, 22-25 June.Fewkes, C., Tabor, R. and Dagastine, R. (2014) Droplet collisions in spherical and rod-like micelle systems and their impact on structural and depletion forces. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February.Franks, G.V., Mignone, P.J., Wang, M., Riley, D.P., Finlayson, T., Echlin, M.P. and Pollock, T.M. (2014) Microstructure-properties modelling of tungsten-copper (W-Cu) composite. 3rd Biennial Conference of the Combined Australian Materials Society (CAMS 2014), Sydney, NSW, Australia, 26-28 November.Franks, G.V., O’Shea, J.-P. and Forbes, E. (2014) Controlling thickener underflow rheology using a temperature responsive flocculant. 6th Pacific

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Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.Franks, G.V., Tallon, C., Mignone, P.J. and Wang, M. (2014) Multi-scale porous ceramics: Microstructure-properties modelling. 3rd Biennial Conference of the Combined Australian Materials Society (CAMS 2014), Sydney, NSW, Australia, 26-28 November.Fu, Q., Kentish, S. and Qiao, G. (2014) The effect of soft nanoparticles morphologies on thin film composite membrane performance. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Fujinaga, K., Nakamura, H., Yamamoto, M., Kawano, S., Oshima, S., Watanabe, Y., Tsurubou, S., Stevens, G.W. and Komatsu, Y. (2014) Application of propylene carbonate to liquid-liquid extraction of metal ion. International Conference of Ion Exchange (ICIE2014), Okinawa, Japan, 9-12-November. (Poster presentation)Gause, K.T., Yan, Y., O’Brien-Simpson, N.M. and Caruso, F. (2014) Differential roles of the protein corona in the cellular uptake of polymer particles by human monocyte and macrophage cell lines. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February.Grabin, T., Smith, K., Mumford, K., Wang, Y. and Stevens, G. (2014) Influence of plate wettability on the performance of a pulsed disc and doughnut column. ISEC 2014 International Solvent Extraction Conference, Würzburg, Germany, 7-11 September.Gu, Q., Shang, J. and Li, G. (2014) Smart adsorbents for gas separation research at Australian Synchrotron. Australian Synchrotron User Meeting 2014, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-21 November.Gunawan, S.T., Liang, K., Such, G.K. and Caruso, F. (2014) Engineering bio-responsive polymer carriers for biomedical applications. 2014 Material Research Society (MRS) Fall Exhibit & Meeting, Boston, MA, USA, 30 November-5 December.Gunawan, S.T., Liang, K., Such, G.K. Johnston, A.P.R., Leung, M.K.M., Cui, J. and Caruso, F. (2014) Engineering bio-responsive polymer carriers for biomedical applications. 23rd Australian Conference on Microscopy and Microanalysis (ACMM23) and the International Conference on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICONN 2014), Adelaide, SA, Australia, 2-6 February.Hallez, L., Touyeras, F., Hihn, J.Y. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Behaviour, size and control of cavitation bubbles generated by HIFU. 14th Meeting of the European Sonochemical Society, Avignon, France, June 2-6.Harkin, T., Qader, A., Indrawan, I., Gouw, J., Rabindran, A., Xiao, G., Anderson, C., Pandit, J.K., Ho, M., Smith, K., Mumford, K., Lee, A., Nicholas, N., Hooper, B., Stevens, G. and Wiley, D. (2014) Outcomes from the UNO MK 3 power station pilot plant trials. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Harris Wibowo, S., Sulistio, A., Wong, E.H.H., Blencowe, A. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) From catalysis to drug encapsulation: Exploring the non-covalent entrapment capabilities of β-sheet stabilized polypeptide films. 2014 IUPAC World Polymer Congress (MACRO

2014), Chiang Mai, Thailand, 6-11 July. (Poster presentation)Harris Wibowo, S., Sulistio, A., Wong, E.H.H., Blencowe, A. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Templated assembly of β-sheet stabilized polypeptide capsules by NCA-ROP. 2014 IUPAC World Polymer Congress (MACRO 2014), Chiang Mai, Thailand, 6-11 July.Hartnett, T., Ladewig, K., Hartley, P.G., O’Connor, A.J. and McLean, K.M. (2014) Controlling the architecture of cubosomes for the delivery of bioactive therapeutics. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February.Hartnett, T., Ladewig, K., Hartley, P.G., O’Connor, A.J. and McLean, K.M. (2014) Stabiliser hydrophilicity leads to reduced cubosome cytotoxic response. 23rd Annual Conference of the Australasian Society for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering (ASBTE 2014), Lorne, VIC, Australia, 22-24 April. (Poster presentation)Hartnett, T., Ladewig, K., Hartley, P.G., O’Connor, A.J. and McLean, K.M. (2014) Controlling the architecture of cubosomes for the delivery of macromolecular biotherapeutics. 9th Liquid Matter Conference (Liquids 2014), Lisbon, Portugal, 21-25 July.Hartnett, T., Ladewig, K., Hartley, P.G., O’Connor, A.J. and McLean, K.M. (2014) Lamellar to cubic phase transitions: Tackling the bioactive frontier. 41st Annual Meeting & Exposition of the Controlled Release Society, Chicago, Il, USA, 13-16 July. (Poster presentation)He, Y., Shang, J., Gu, Q., Singh, R., Xiao, P., and Webley, P. (2014) Tuning of porosity on a metal-organic compound: synthesis, structure and gas adsorption properties. International Symposium NANOPOROUS MATERIALS-7, Niagara Falls, Canada, 22-25 June.Henderson, T.M.A., Ladewig, K., Haylock, D.N., McLean, K.M. and O’Connor, A.J. (2014) Modifiable macro-porous hyaluronic acid cryogels for cell culture. 23rd Annual Conference of the Australasian Society for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering (ASBTE 2014), Lorne, VIC, Australia, 22-24 April.Henderson, T.M.A., Ladewig, K., Haylock, D., McLean, K. and O’Connor, A.J. (2014) Hyaluronan cellular scaffolds with tailorable physical properties. Frontiers in Human Engineering Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21 August. (Poster presentation)Homer, S., Lundin, L. and Dunstan, D. (2014) Large amplitude oscillatory shear behaviour of whey protein isolate gels produced under controlled shear conditions. 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.Hunter, T., Usher, S., Biggs, S., Bux, J., Tillotson, M., Scales, P., Stickland, A. and Franks, G. (2014) Characterization of suspension separation in thickeners, by an acoustic backscatter system. UK Colloids 2014: An International Colloid and Interface Science Symposium, London, UK, 6-9 July.Jafari, J., Tran, P.A. and O’Connor, A.J. (2014) Magnetic manipulation of cells for soft tissue engineering. 23rd Annual Conference of the Australasian Society for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering (ASBTE 2014), Lorne, VIC, Australia, 22-24 April. (Poster presentation)

Jafari, J., Tran, P.A. and O’Connor, A.J. (2014) Magnetic manipulation of cells for soft tissue engineering. Frontiers in Human Engineering Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21 August. (Poster presentation)Jeldres, R., Scales, P., Usher, S., Stickland, A., Toledo, P. and Concha, F. (2014) Impact of seawater salts on the viscoelastic behavior of flocculated mineral suspensions. XXVII International Mineral Processing Congress – IMPC 2014, Santiago, Chile, 20-24 October.Jiao, J., He, Y., Kentish, S., Ashokkumar, M., Manasseh, R. and Lee, J. (2014) From bubble clusters to sonocrystallisation. 14th Meeting of the European Sonochemical Society, Avignon, France, June 2-6.Kanehashi, S. (2014) Development of polymer composite membranes for carbon dioxide capture. 6th HOPE Meeting with Nobel Laureates, Tokyo, Japan, 10-15 March.Kanehashi, S., Chen, G., Miyakoshi, T., and Kentish, S. (2014) Pure and mixed gas permeation properties of mixed matrix membranes. 10th International Congress on Membranes and Membrane Processes, Suzhou, China, 20-25 July.Kanehashi, S. and Kentish, S. (2014) Water impact on CO2 separation performance in mixed matrix membranes. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Kashani, A., Provis, J.L., Qiao, G.G. and Van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Measuring time-resolved yield stress of reacting binders using a creeping sphere. 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.Kashani, A., Provis, J.L., Qiao, G.G. and Van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Rheological behaviour of alkali-activated binders. 8th International Chemical Engineering Congress & Exhibition (IChEC 2014), Kish Island, Iran, 24-27 February.Kentish, S. (2014) Application of membrane technology in dairy processing. 4th Membrane Society of Australasia Early Career Researcher Symposium, Geelong, VIC, Australia, 19-21 November.Kentish, S. (2014) Carbon Capture research within the Peter Cook Centre - An overview of recent results. National CCS Conference – CCS in Action: Today, Tomorrow & Beyond, Sydney, NSW, Australia, 31 August-3 September. (Invited speaker)Kentish, S. (2014) Membrane distillation for concentration of salty whey. Chemeca 2014: Processing excellence; powering our future, Perth, WA, Australia, 28 September-1 October. (Invited speaker)Kentish, S., Stevens, G and Scholes, C. (2014) The use of gas separation membranes in carbon dioxide capture. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Kezia, K. (2014) Membrane distillation: Saline waste effluent concentration and crystallization. 4th Membrane Society of Australasia Early Career Researcher Symposium, Geelong, VIC, Australia, 19-21 November. (Poster presentation)Kim, J., Fu, Q., Kentish, S. and Qiao, G., (2014) Development of CO2 selective ultra-thin TFC membranes via CAP nanotechnology for industrial use. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November. (Poster presentation)

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Kim, J., Fu, Q., Kentish, S. and Qiao, G. (2014) High performance PEG-based ultra-thin mixed matrix membranes for CO2 separation. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Kusuma, T., Lester, D. and Stickland, A. (2014) Time-dependent yield. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February. (Poster presentation)Kusuma, T., Stickland, A. and Lester, D. (2014) Visualisation of yield fronts during creep flow of suspensions. 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.Lam, S.J., Pantarat, N., Sulistio, A., Wong, E.H.H., Blencowe, A., O’Brien-Simpson, N. M. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Probing the antimicrobial activities of star-shaped synthetic polypeptides using a combinatorial approach. 2014 IUPAC World Polymer Congress (MACRO 2014), Chiang Mai, Thailand, 6-11 July.Lee, J. (2014) Sonocrystallisation under various frequencies and powers. IEEE International Ultrasonics Symposium, Chicago, Illinois, USA, 3-6 September.Lee, J., Perkas, N., Ashokkumar, M. and Gedanken, A. (2014) Impact of ultrasound frequency on crystallisation and deposition of nanoparticles onto surfaces. Ultrasonics 2014, Caparica, Portugal, 15-17 September.Li, Z., Mumford, K., Smith, K. and Stevens, G. (2014) Experimental and model study on extraction of phenol by toluene. ISEC 2014 International Solvent Extraction Conference, Würzburg, Germany, 7-11 September. (Poster presentation)Liang, K., Such, G., Cui, J., Johnston, A. and Caruso, F. (2014) Nanoengineered dual-responsive polymer capsules for drug delivery. 23rd Australian Conference on Microscopy and Microanalysis (ACMM23) and the International Conference on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICONN 2014), Adelaide, SA, Australia, 2-6 February.Ling, J., Ntiamoah, A., Xiao, P., Webley, P. and Zhai, Y. (2014) Effects of operating parameters on VSA process for CO2 capture. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November. (Poster presentation)Lu, H., Scholes, C., Chen, G., Kanehashi, S. and Kentish, S. (2014) The impact of water on the performance of cellulose acetate membrane for CO2 separation. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November. (Poster presentation)Martin, G.J.O., Yap, B.H.J., Spiden, E.M., Olmstead, I.L.D., Halim, R., Hill, D.R.A., Dumsday, G.J., Crawford, S.A., Webley, P.A. and Kentish, S.E. (2014) Lipid extraction for wet microalgal paste. 4th International Conference on Algal Biomass, Biofuels & Bioproducts, Santa Fe, NM, USA, 15-18 June.Mason, L.R., Stevens, G.W. and Harvie, D.J.E. (2014) Multi-scale modelling of droplet interactions in liquid–liquid systems. ISEC 2014 International Solvent Extraction Conference, Würzburg, Germany, 7-11 September. (Poster presentation)Mason, L.R., Stevens, G.W. and Harvie, D.J.E. (2014) Subgrid CFD film-drainage modelling: Application to buoyancy-driven droplet–wall collisions in emulsions. 19th Australasian Fluid Mechanics Conference (AFMC), Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 8-11 December.

McKenzie, T.G., Tan, S., Ren, J.M., Wong, E.H.H. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Aqueous or phototriggered formation of functional core cross-linked star polymers via copper-mediated living radical polymerization. 2014 IUPAC World Polymer Congress (MACRO 2014), Chiang Mai, Thailand, 6-11 July.Mettu, S., Hadiputra, I. and Dagastine, R.R. (2014) Forces between emulsions drops and charging behavior in the presence of mixtures of ionic and non-ionic surfactants. AIChE 2014 Annual Meeting, Atlanta, GA, USA, 16-21 November.Mettu, S., Hadiputra, I. and Dagastine, R. (2014) Interactions forces and charging behavior of deformable oil drops coated with mixture of ionic and non-ionic surfactants. 88th ACS Annual Colloids and Surface Science Symposium, Philadelphia, PA, USA, 22-25 June.Mirza, N., Nicholas, N. and Stevens, G. (2014) Estimation of critical properties of deep eutectic solvents. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November. (Poster presentation)Mularski, A., Wang, H., Wilksch, J., Hossain, M., Wade, J., Strugnell, R., Separovic, F., Gee, M. (2014) Interaction of a model antimicrobial peptide with live bacteria. Annual Meeting of the German Biophysical Society, Lubeck, Germany, 14-17 September. (Poster presentation)Mularski, A., Wang, H., Wilksch, J., Hossain, M., Wade, J., Strugnell, R., Separovic, F., Gee, M. (2014) Interaction of a model antimicrobial peptide with live bacteria. 12th Greta Pifat Mrzljak International School of Biophysics. Primošten, Croatia, 27 September - 9 October.Mularski, A., Wang, H., Wilksch, J., Hossain, M., Wade, J., Strugnell, R., Separovic, F., Gee, M. (2014) Interaction of a model antimicrobial peptide with live bacteria. RACI Peptide Users Group Spring Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 27 November.Mularski, A., Wang, H., Wilksksch, J., Separovic, F., Wade, J., Hossain, A., Strugnell, R. and Gee, M. (2014) Interaction of a model antimicrobial peptide with bacterial cells. 2014 International Biophysics Congress, Brisbane, QLD, Australia, 3-7 August.Müllner, M., Cui, J., Noi, K. F., Gunawan, S. T. and Caruso, F. (2014) SI-ATRP within mesoporous silica spheres: A facile method for the modular design of polymeric replica particles. 2014 IUPAC World Polymer Congress (MACRO 2014), Chiang Mai, Thailand, 6-11 July.Nagul, E.A., Croft, C., McKelvie, I.D., Cattrall, R.W., Kolev, S.D. (2014) Extraction and preconcentration of phosphomolybdenum blue using polymer inclusion membranes. 22nd Annual RACI Environmental and Analytical Division R&D Topics Conference, Adelaide, SA, Australia, 13-15 December.Nagul, E.A., Kolev, S.D., Cattrall, R.W., McKelvie, I.D. (2014) The use of UV photoreduction in the flow analysis determination of orthophosphate in natural waters. 6th HOPE Meeting with Nobel Laureates, Tokyo, Japan, 10-15 March. (Poster presentation)Nagul, E. A., Kolev, S. D., McKelvie, I. D., Cattrall, R. W. (2014) The applications of polymer inclusion membranes in automatic chemical analysis and monitoring systems. Centre for Aquatic Pollution Identification and Management (CAPIM) Research Summit.

Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 29 May.Neeson, M., Tabor, R, Dagastine, R. and Chan, D. (2014) Investigating the capillary bridge between a particle and a substrate. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February.Neeson, M., Tabor, R, Grieser, F., Dagastine, R. and Chan, D. (2014) The evaporation of a capillary bridge between a particle and a substrate. 88th ACS Annual Colloids and Surface Science Symposium, Philadelphia, PA, USA, 22-25 June.Neeson, M., Tabor, R, Grieser, F., Dagastine, R. and Chan, D. (2014) The evaporation of a capillary bridge between a particle and a substrate. UK Colloids 2014: An International Colloid and Interface Science Symposium, London, UK, 6-9 July.Nguyen, H.T.H., Ong, L., Kentish, S.E. and Gras, S.L. (2014) Buffalo yogurt: Characterisation and the effect of fermentation temperature on the microstructure and rheological properties. 5th Symposium on Science and Technology of Fermented Milk. Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 6-7 March.Nicholas, N., Lee, A., Smith, K., Mumford, K., Thee, H., Endo, K., Indrawan, I., Gouw, J., Thanumurthy, N., Kromer, N., Wolf, M., da Silva, G., Kentish, S. and Stevens, G. (2014) Understanding and improving the K2CO3-CO2 capture system. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Ntiamoah, A., Ling, J., Xiao, P. and Webley, P. (2014) CO2 capture by temperature swing adsorption: experimental and simulation studies. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November. (Poster presentation)Nursam, N.M., Wang, X., and Caruso, R.A. (2014) Hierarchically porous titania thin-films: Synthesis and high-throughput photocatalytic evaluation. CSIRO Advanced Materials Conference, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 28-30 April. (Poster presentation)Nursam, N.M., Wang, X., and Caruso, R.A. (2014) Preparation and parallel screening of porous titania thin-films for photocatalytic applications. Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) Manufacturing Flagship Expo, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 2 December. (Poster presentation)O’Connor, A.J. (2014) Biomaterial design strategies to enhance tissue engineering. Frontiers in Human Engineering Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21 August. (Invited speaker)Ong, L., Kentish, S.E., and Gras, S.L. (2014) Microstructure of Cheddar cheese made with ultrafiltrate milk retentate. Second IDF Symposium on Microstructure of Dairy Products, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 3-4 March. (Poster presentation)Ong, L., Nguyen, H., Soodam, K., Kentish, S.E., and Gras, S.L. (2014) The microstructure of Australian cheddar cheese and other dairy products. Second IDF Symposium on Microstructure of Dairy Products,Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 3-4 March. (Invited speaker)Oshima, S., Kumagai, Y., Watanabe, Y., Fujinaga, K., Stevens, G.W. and Komatsu, Y. (2014) Adsorption behaviour of metal ions with β-diketone type chelating agents supported on

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hydrophobized mesoporous silicate MCM-41. International Conference of Ion Exchange (ICIE2014), Okinawa, Japan, 9-12-November. (Poster presentation)Ozcelik, B., Blencowe, A., Palmer, J., Ladewig, K., Stevens, G.W., Abberton, K., Morrison, W.A. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Highly porous and robust polyester poly(ethylene glycol) sponges for soft tissue engineering. 23rd Annual Conference of the Australasian Society for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering (ASBTE 2014), Lorne, VIC, Australia, 22-24 April.Pillai, R., Berry, J.D., Harvie, D.J.E. and Davidson, M.R. (2014) Effect of interfacial tension and electric field on charge separation dynamics inside stable and unstable microdrops. 19th Australasian Fluid Mechanics Conference (AFMC), Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 8-11 December.Provis, J.L., Bernal, S.A., Ismail, I. San Nicolas, R., Brice, D.G. and Van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Comparing the influence of fly ash on the durability properties of Portland cement-based and alkali activated slag-based concretes. XIII International Conference on Durability of Building Materials and Components (XIII DBMC), 68th RILEM Annual Week, São Paulo, Brazil, 31 August - 5 September.Qiao, G. (2014) Game-change thinking in new gas membrane design and fabrication. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Qiao, G.G. (2014) An update on nano-engineered thin films via the continuous assembly of polymers (CAP) process. 2014 IUPAC World Polymer Congress (MACRO 2014), Chiang Mai, Thailand, 6-11 July.Qiao, G. (2014) Nano-engineered polypeptide architectures and their potential applications in medicine. Nanotechnology and Medicines for Tomorrow Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20 November.Quinn, J., Soldenhoff, K. and Stevens, G. (2014) Separation of rare earth elements using Cyanex 572. ISEC 2014 International Solvent Extraction Conference, Würzburg, Germany, 7-11 September.Rémy, T., Danaci, D., Peter, S.A., Van Tendeloo, L., Couck, S., Shang, J., Kirschhock, C.E.A., Martens, J.A., Baron, G., Webley, P.A. and Denayer, J. (2014) Separation of carbon dioxide and methane over Rb- and Cs-ZK-5 zeolites. AIChE 2014 Annual Meeting, Atlanta, GA, USA, 16-21 November.Richardson, J., Cui, J. Ejima, H., Kempe, K., Liang, K. and Caruso, F. (2014) The material effects of thin film polymer assembly techniques. 23rd Australian Conference on Microscopy and Microanalysis (ACMM23) and the International Conference on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICONN 2014), Adelaide, SA, Australia, 2-6 February.Rubasingha, S., Stickland, A.D. and Scales, P.J. (2014) Investigations of the dependence of suspension rheology properties on particle size. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February. (Poster presentation)Rubasingha, S., Stickland, A.D. and Scales, P.J. (2014) Investigations of the dependence of suspension rheology properties on particle size. 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July. (Poster presentation)

Scales, P.J. (2014) Emerging issues in water resources management – The Australia-China water partnership. Carlton Connect Initiative Conference 2014, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 30 September-2 October.Scales, P.J. (2014) Water productivity, regional water security and sustainable development, the role of automated water control technologies. Chinese Hydraulic Engineering Society Annual Symposium, International session, Tianjin, China, October.Scholes, C. (2014) ‘To infinity and beyond’ with membrane gas separation. 4th Membrane Society of Australasia Early Career Researcher Symposium, Geelong, VIC, Australia, 19-21 November.Scholes, C.A., Stevens, G.W. and Kentish, S.E. (2014) Performance of perfluoropolymers membranes for CO2 separation in the presence of water and hydrocarbon vapours. 10th International Congress on Membranes and Membrane Processes, Suzhou, China, 20-25 July.Scholes, C., Stevens, G. and Kentish, S. (2014) Revolutionising solvent absorption through membranes. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Scofield, J.M.P. (2014) High performance thin-film composite membranes based on amphiphilic block copolymers. 2014 AIE National Postgraduate Student Energy Awards in conjunction with All-Energy Conference & Exhibition, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 15-16 October. (Poster presentation)Scofield, J., Fu, Q., Gurr, P., Kentish, S. and Qiao, G. (2014) The effect of selective layer morphology and structure on membrane gas permselectivity: a review. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November. (Poster presentation)Scofield, J., Gurr, P., Kentish, S. and Qiao, G. (2014) High permeance PEG-fluorinated based block polymer for enhanced CO2 gas separation membranes. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Scofield, J.M.P., Gurr, P.A., Kentish, S.E. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Thin-film composite membranes based on amphiphilic block copolymers. 10th International Congress on Membranes and Membrane Processes, Suzhou, China, 20-25 July.Shang, J., Li, G., Danaci, D., He, Y., Xiao, P., Singh, R., Liu, Z. and Webley, P. (2014) Revisiting the molecular sieving mechanism on Zeolite A for CO2/N2/CH4 separation: the influence of presorbed species. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November. (Poster presentation)Skinner, S., Scales, P. and Stickland, A. (2014) Compressional rheology of bio-fouling layers in filtration. 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July. (Poster presentation)Skinner, S.J., Stickland, A.D. and Scales, P.J. (2014) Understanding filtration of wastewater sludges for improved water recycling. Asia-Oceania Top University League on Engineering (AOTULE) 2014 Conference, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 26-28 November.Smith, K., Indrawan, I., Gouw, J., Thanumurthy, N., Mumford, K., Xiao, G., Rabindran, A., Harkin, T., Anderson, C., Lee, A., Nicholas, N., Li, S., Temple, N., Qader, A., Hooper, B., Kentish, S.

and Stevens, G. (2014) Pilot plant trials for CO2 absorption using K2CO3 solvent. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Soodam, K., Ong, L., Kentish, S.E., and Gras, S.L. (2014) Changes in the microstructure, textural and chemical characteristics during ripening of Cheddar cheese made using different milk protein concentrations. Second IDF Symposium on Microstructure of Dairy Products. Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 3-4 March. (Poster presentation)Stevens, G. Mumford, K.A., Snape, I., Gore, D., Rayner, J. and Hince, G. (2014) Opportunities for chemical engineering in Antarctica. Chemeca 2014: Processing excellence; powering our future, Perth, WA, Australia, 28 September-1 October. (Invited speaker)Stevens, G., Smith, K., Nicholas, N., Lee, A., Mumford, K., Thee, H., Endo, K., Indrawan, I., Gouw, J., Thanumurthy, N., Kromer, N., Wolf, M., da Silva, G., Xiao, G., Rabindran, A., Harkin, T., Anderson, C., Li, S., Temple, N., Qader, A., Hooper, B., and Kentish, S. (2014) Post combustion capture of CO2 using solvent based processes. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Stevens, G.W. (2014) CO2 capture research in Australia, Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) /Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE) Low Emissions Fossil Fuels Workshop Workshop on Low Emissions Fossil Fuel, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 26 March.Stevens, G.W. (2014) Solvent extraction equipment in the hydro metallurgical industry the disk and doughnut column. Second Australia-China Joint Symposia on Minerals and Metallurgy, Sydney, NSW, Australia, 23-25 July. (Invited speaker)Stickland, A., Kusuma, T., Teo, H.-E., Buscall, R., Lester, D. and Scales, P. (2014) A qualitative viscoelastoplastic model of time and rate dependent yielding of suspensions. 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.Sutton, C.C.R., Da Silva, G. and Franks, G.V. (2014) Theoretical modelling of the adsorption of citrate onto zinc oxide surfaces. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February.Tabor, R.F., Wu, C., Grieser, F., Dagastine, R.R. and Chan, D. (2014) Measuring the hydrophobic force in a soft matter system. 88th ACS Annual Colloids and Surface Science Symposium, Philadelphia, PA, USA, 22-25 June.Tabor, R.F., Wu, C., Grieser, F., Dagastine, R.R. and Chan, D.Y.C. (2014) Measuring the hydrophobic force in a soft matter system. UK Colloids 2014: An International Colloid and Interface Science Symposium, London, UK, 6-9 July.Tallon, C. and Franks, G.V. (2014) Multi-scale porous ceramics: Near-net-shaping and processing. 3rd Biennial Conference of the Combined Australian Materials Society (CAMS 2014), Sydney, NSW, Australia, 26-28 November.Tallon, C. and Franks, G.V. (2014) Near-net-shaping of UHTC: Colloidal processing to the rescue! 3rd Biennial Conference of the Combined Australian Materials Society (CAMS 2014), Sydney, NSW, Australia, 26-28 November.

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Tallon, C., Leo, S., Minas, C. and Franks, G.V. (2014) Challenges in the preparation of borides and carbides powder concentrated suspensions for near-net-shaping of UHTC ceramics. 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.Tan, J.Z.Y., Wang, X. and Caruso, R.A. (2014) Effect of hydrolysis on the microstructures and surface area of TiO2 nano-spheres. 2014 Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) Inorganic Chemistry (Victorian Branch) Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 28 November. (Poster presentation)Tan, J.Z.Y., Wang, X. and Caruso, R.A. (2014) Effect of hydrolysis on the microstructures and surface area of TiO2 nano-spheres. Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) Manufacturing Flagship Expo, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 2 December. (Poster presentation)Tang, W., Danaci, D., Singh, R. and Webley, P. (2014) Porphyrin-based polymers with improved oxygen selectivity for air separation applications. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November. (Poster presentation)Teh, N., Barifcani, A., Webley, P., Pack, D. and Tade, M. (2014) Optimisation of Vacuum Swing Adsorption (VSA)/Cryogenic hybrid process for CO2 capture and its design. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November. (Poster presentation)Teo, H.-E., Stickland, A., Batterham, R. and Scales, P. (2014) The rheology and rheometry behind stress relaxation. 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July. (Poster presentation)Teo, H.-E., Stickland, A., Batterham, R. and Scales, P. (2014) What happens when a sheared suspension is loaded compressively? 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February.Teo, H.-E., Stickland, A., Batterham, R. and Scales, P. (2014) When shear met compression - A suspension rheological perspective. 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.Tran, P.A. and O’Connor, A.J. (2014) Novel titanium dioxide-polycaprolactone composites for soft tissue engineering applications. 23rd Annual Conference of the Australasian Society for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering (ASBTE 2014), Lorne, VIC, Australia, 22-24 April.Tran, P.A. and O’Connor, A.J. (2014) Incorporating silver nanoparticles to polymers for antimicrobial medical device applications. Frontiers in Human Engineering Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21 August. (Poster presentation)Un, C.H., Sanjayan, J.G., San Nicolas, R. and Van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Investigation of long term behaviour of reinforced geopolymer concrete beams under sustained loads. 23rd Australasian Conference on the Mechanics of Structures and Materials (ACMSM23), Byron Bay, NSW, Australia, 9-12 December.Usher, S. (2014) Centrifugal characterisation of suspension dewatering in compression and elastic rebound. 6th Pacific Rim Conference on Rheology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-25 July.Usher, S.P. (2014) Centrifugal characterisation of suspensions in dewatering: Permeability, compression and elastic rebound. International

Workshop: Dispersion Analysis & Materials Testing 2014, Berlin, Germany, 23-24 January.Van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Is recovery of precious metals from abnormal ores possible? Second Australia-China Joint Symposia on Minerals and Metallurgy, Sydney, NSW, Australia, 23-25 July.Van ‘t Hag, L., Darmanin, C., Le, T.C., Mudie, S., Conn, C.E. and Drummond C.J. (2014) In meso crystallization: Compatibility of different lipid bicontinuous cubic mesophases with the cubic crystallization screen in aqueous solution. Bicontinuous Cubic Phases Conference (satellite meeting to the 2014 International Biophysics Congress), Noosa, QLD, Australia, 30 July-2 August. (Poster presentation)Van ‘t Hag, L., Darmanin, C., Le, T.C., Mudie, S., Conn, C.E. and Drummond C.J. (2014) In meso crystallization: Compatibility of different lipid bicontinuous cubic mesophases with the cubic crystallization screen in aqueous solution, Australian Synchrotron User Meeting 2014. Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-21 November.Van ‘t Hag, L., Li, X., Conn, C.E., Gras, S. L. and Drummond, C.J. (2014) In meso crystallisation of amphiphilic peptides. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February.Veytskin, Y., Clennell, B., Dewhurst, D., Dagastine, R. and Hartley, P. (2014) Interactions between gas shales and model proppant particles in aqueous and non-aqueous solutions through atomic force microscopy (AFM). 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February. (Poster presentation)Walkley, B., Provis, J.L., San Nicolas, R. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Stoichiometrically controlled C-A-S-H/N-A-S-H gel blends via alkali-activation of synthetic precursors. Workshop on Calcium silicate hydrates containing aluminium: C-A-S-H, Dübendorf, Switzerland, 5-6 May.Walkley, B., Provis, J.L., San Nicolas, R. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Stoichiometrically controlled C-A-S-H/N-A-S-H gel blends via alkali-activation of synthetic precursors. 34th Cement and Concrete Science Conference, Sheffield, England, 14-16 September.Walkley, B., Provis, J.L., San Nicolas, R. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Stoichiometrically controlled C-A-S-H/N-A-S-H gel blends via alkali-activation of synthetic precursors. 3rd Biennial Conference of the Combined Australian Materials Society (CAMS 2014), Sydney, NSW, Australia, 26-28 November.Walkley, B., Provis, J.L., San Nicolas, R. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Structural analysis of biphasic stoichiometrically controlled geopolymers. 5th International Conference on Non-Traditional Cement & Concrete, Brno, Czech Republic, 16-19 June.Walkley, B., Provis, J.L., San Nicolas, R. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Synthesis of stoichiometrically controlled reactive aluminosilicate powders as a high-purity geopolymer precursor. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February.Wang, Y., Mumford, K.A., Ballestrin, S., Smith, K., Grabin, T.F. and Stevens, G.W. (2014) Comparison of the model prediction and industrial data in pulsed disc doughnut

extraction column. ISEC 2014 International Solvent Extraction Conference, Würzburg, Germany, 7-11 September.Wang, Y., Smith, K.H., Mumford, K.A., Grabin, T.F., Li, Z. and Stevens, G.W. (2014) Prediction of dispersed phase holdup in pulsed disc and doughnut solvent extraction columns under different mass transfer conditions. 6th International Conference on Hydrometallurgy (ICHM), Beijing, China, 16-18 October.Wang, Z., O’Connor, A.J., Stevens, G.W. and Lee, P.V.S. (2014) The effect of impact load on chondrocytes’ mechanical properties studied by micropipette aspiration method. 23rd Annual Conference of the Australasian Society for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering (ASBTE 2014), Lorne, VIC, Australia, 22-24 April. (Poster presentation)Wang, Z., O’Connor, A.J., Stevens, G.W. and Lee, P.V.S. (2014) The effect of impact load on chondrocytes’ mechanical properties studied by micropipette aspiration. Frontiers in Human Engineering Symposium, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21 August. (Poster presentation)Wong, E.H.H., Lam, S.J., Nam, E., Ren, J.M. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Single-chain polymeric nanoparticles via organo-catalyzed ring-opening polymerization. 2014 IUPAC World Polymer Congress (MACRO 2014), Chiang Mai, Thailand, 6-11 July. (Poster presentation)Wu, A.H.F., Nakanishi, K., Wetherbee, R. and Lamb, R. (2014) Photosynthetically-driven marine antifouling, pitting nature against nature. 17th International Congress on Marine Corrosion and Fouling, Singapore, 6-10 July.Wu, C. (2014) Applications of the Stokes-Reynolds-Young-Laplace Model. 88th ACS Annual Colloids and Surface Science Symposium, Philadelphia, PA, USA, 22-25 June.Wu, C., Tabor, R., Dagastine, R.R. and Chan, D. (2014) Drop – drop behaviour for periodic drive profiles. 29th Australian Colloid and Surface Science Student Conference (ACSSSC), Ballarat, VIC, Australia, 3-7 February.Wu, Y., Mumford, K., Smith, K., Nicholas, N. and Stevens, G. (2014) Rate based modelling of K2CO3 precipitating absorption columns in carbon capture. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November. (Poster presentation)Xia, F., Li, W., Song, J., Bao, Q. and Caruso, R.A. (2014) In situ PXRD studies of the solvothermal syntheses of WO3-ethylenediamine hybrid nanowires and Bi2SexTe3-x nanoplatelets. Australian Synchrotron User Meeting 2014, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 20-21 November.Xiao, F., Wang, Y., Shen, X., Yang, L., Stevens, G.W. and Perera, J.M. (2014) The extraction of Co(II) with Cyanex 272 in a neutral micellar system. ISEC 2014 International Solvent Extraction Conference, Würzburg, Germany, 7-11 September. (Poster presentation)Xiao, P., Ntiamoah, A., Ling, J., Danaci, D., Shang, J., Singh, R. and Webley, P. (2014) CO2 capture from flue gas streams by adsorption technology. 2014 CO2CRC Research Symposium, Torquay, VIC, Australia, 25-26 November.Xu, C., Peng, S., Qiao, G.G., Gutowski, V., Lohse, D. and Zhang, X. (2014) Nanobubble formation on a warm substrate. NANOBUBBLE 2014: Conference on Nanobubbles, Gas-filled Micropancakes and their Applications, Shanghai, China, 21-24 October.

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Yan, Y. (2014) A cellular journey of nanoporous polymer particles. NanoBio Australia 2014 incorporating the 5th International NanoBio Conference & 3rd International Conference on BioNano Innovation (ICBNI), Brisbane, QLD, 6-10 July.Yan, Y. and Caruso, F. (2014) Biological interactions of multilayered polymer capsules. 23rd Australian Conference on Microscopy and Microanalysis (ACMM23) and the International Conference on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICONN 2014), Adelaide, SA, Australia, 2-6 February.Yap, B.H.J., Dumsday, G.J., Scales, P.J. and Martin, G.J.O. (2014) Algal cell disruption: An important unit operation in the recovery of intracellular products. 4th International Conference on Algal Biomass, Biofuels & Bioproducts, Santa Fe, NM, USA, 15-18 June.Yap, B.H.J., Dumsday, G.J., Scales, P.J. and Martin, G.J.O. (2014) Algal biodiesel: The role of cell disruption in lipid recovery. 2014 AIE National Postgraduate Student Energy Awards in conjunction with All-Energy Conference & Exhibition, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 15-16 October. (Poster presentation)Yap, B.H.J., Dumsday, G.J., Scales, P.J. and Martin, G.J.O. (2014) Algal cell disruption: An important unit operation in the recovery of intracellular products. BioProcessing Network Conference, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21-23 October.Yong, J.K.J., Cho, K.-L., Caruso, F. and Kentish, S.E. (2014) The fabrication of thin carbonic anhydrase films for enhancing membrane contactor operations. 4th Membrane Society of Australasia Early Career Researcher Symposium, Geelong, VIC, Australia, 19-21 November. (Poster presentation)

Invited Lectures and SeminarsAshokkumar, M. (2014) Food and bioprocessing: Innovations in technology. South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, Russia, 22 September.Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Sound and bubbles: Fundamentals and applications of acoustic cavitation. University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany, 28 May.Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Sound and bubbles: Fundamentals and applications of acoustic cavitation. Université de Franche-Comté, Besançon, France, 20 November.Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Ultrasonics and sonochemistry for functional materials and food processing. Physical Chemistry Seminar, School of Chemistry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 13 October.Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Ultrasonic synthesis and processing of biofunctional materials. Academy of Science, Chennai, India, 18 December.Caruso, F. (2014) Interfacing materials and biology for drug carrier design. Peter MacCallum Research Seminar Series, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 6 November. Chen, G.Q. (2014) Towards a sustainable future for the Australian dairy industry - Separation technologies for salty waste reduction and improved product recovery, Australian Dairy Manufacturing Sustainability Council Forum, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 26 June.

Dagastine, R. R. (2014) A “front seat” view of the interactions between drops and bubbles in complex fluids, Unilever R&D, Trumbull, CT, USA, 26 June.Dagastine, R. R. (2014) Complex fluid emulsions: Understanding and controlling nano-scale forces between drops and bubbles, Unilever R&D, Port Sunlight, UK, 10 July.Dagastine, R. R. (2014) Complex fluid emulsions: Understanding and controlling nano-scale forces between drops and bubbles, Departmental Seminar, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 29 July.Grieser, F. (2014) Sonochemistry - how simple sound can produce free radicals and chemicals in a liquid, and much more. Chemistry Education Association’s November lectures, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21 November.Healy, T.W. (2014) Incubation to Graduation. Nurturing start-ups to success: Sienna Cancer Diagnostics journey at Bio21, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 2 December.Kentish, S.E. (2014) The Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, A Research Powerhouse, HRL Limited Seminar, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 19 November.Kentish, S.E. (2014) What is the role of fossil fuels into the future? IPCC Working Group III: What’s in it for Australia, Public Lecture, Australian-German College of Climate & Energy Transitions, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 8 May.Lee, J. (2014) Exploiting the unique physical and chemical properties induced by acoustic cavitation. Institute for Frontier Materials Seminar, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia 28 March.Lee, J. (2014) From salty water to fresh water, Spark Engineering Camp, Youth Without Borders, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 11 July.Lee, J. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Fundamentals applications of acoustic cavitation and its application in controlling the properties of materials. Commissariat à l’Énergie Atomique & Énergies Alternatives, Marcoule, France, 11 June. (Joint presentation)Mumford, K.A. (2014) Separation processes – soil remediation and air pollution control. University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, 31 October.Scales, P.J. (2014) Application of phage for control of waste water foaming. Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China, October.Scales, P.J. (2014) Direct potable water recycle. Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China, September.Scales, P.J. (2014) Measurement and modelling towards the full thickener model. AMIRA P266 review meeting, Salt Lake City, USA, March.Scales, P.J. (2014) Quantitative sewage sludge dewatering. Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China, November.Scales, P.J. (2014) River basin management – water resources and water quality. Department of State Development, Business and Innovation (DSDBI), Chile Delegation, Melbourne VIC, Australia, June.

Scales, P.J. (2014) The urban water plant of the future. Australia-China Wetland Network Research Partnership Symposium, Nanjing, China, March.

Scales, P.J. (2014) Water productivity and the role of automated control technologies. Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China, November.

Scales, P.J. (2014) Water productivity and the role of automated control technologies. Wuhan University, Wuhan, China, November.

Scales, P.J. (2014) Water recycle and breaking the pollution cycle. Department of Hydraulic Engineering, Tsinghua University, China, November.

Scales, P.J. (2014) Water recycle and breaking the pollution cycle. School of Environment, Tsinghua University, China, November.

Scofield, J.M.P., Gurr, P.A., Kentish, S.E. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Thin-film composite membranes based on amphiphilic block copolymers, Myeongji University, Yeongin, South Korea, 28 July.

Scofield, J.M.P., Gurr, P.A., Kentish, S.E. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Thin-film composite membranes based on amphiphilic block copolymers, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea, 29 July.

Smith, K.H., Thanumurthy, N., Indrawan, Temple, N., Mumford, K.A., Li, S., Lee, A., Nicholas, N., Anderson, C., Hooper, B., Kentish, S.E. and Stevens, G.W. (2014) Demonstration of a promoted precipitating potassium carbonate solvent absorption process for CO2 capture, Research and Development Department, Qingdao Institute of BioEnergy and Bioprocess Technology (QIBEBT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China, 21 October.

Stevens, G.W. (2014) Global warming, greenhouse gases, energy usage and separations technology. School of Chemical Engineering, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia, 14 March.

Stickland, A.D. (2014) Dry stacking of wastewater treatment sludges. Melbourne Water R&D Forum, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 12 December.

Tallon, C. and Franks, G.V. (2014) Near-net-shaping of ceramics. Victorian Branch of the Australian Ceramic Society event: University of Melbourne Ceramic Processing Labs and Nano-materials Characterisation Facilities, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 21 August.

Tallon, C. and Franks, G.V. (2014) Near-net-shaping of multi-scale porous UHTCs. Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR), Aerospace Materials for Extreme Environments Program Review, Arlington, VA, USA, 12-16 May.

Van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Phase evolution in alkali-activated concrete: implications for commercialization. Princeton University, New Jersey, USA, 30 October.

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Publications

Dr Emma Prime

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Edited Book Manickam, S. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Cavitation: A Novel Energy-Efficient Technique for the Generation of Nanomaterials, Pan Stanford Publishing (Print ISBN: 978-981-4411-54-7; eBook ISBN: 978-981-4411-55-4).Picart, C., Caruso, F. and Voegel, J.-C. (2014) Layer-by-Layer Films for Biomedical Applications, Wiley-VCH, Weinheim (ISBN: 978-3-527-33589-3).Provis, J.L. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Alkali Activated Materials: State-of-the-Art Report, RILEM TC 224-AAM, RILEM State-of-the-Art Reports 13, Springer Netherlands (Print ISBN: 978-94-007-7671-5; eBook ISBN: ISBN 978-94-007-7672-2).

Book Chapter Anandan, S. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Sonochemical synthesis of noble monometallic and bimetallic nanoparticles for catalytic applications. In Manickam, S. and Ashokkumar, M. (eds.), Cavitation: A Novel Energy-Efficient Technique for the Generation of Nanomaterials. Pan Stanford Publishing, pp. 55-88.Ashokkumar, M. and Manickam, S. (2014) Ultrasonics and sonochemistry: Some issues and future perspectives. In Manickam, S. and Ashokkumar, M. (eds.), Cavitation: A Novel Energy-Efficient Technique for the Generation of Nanomaterials. Pan Stanford Publishing, pp. 415-422.Brice, D.G., Ko, L.S.-C., Provis, J.L. and Van Deventer. J.S.J. (2014) Conclusions and the future of alkali activation technology. In Provis, J.L. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (eds.), Alkali Activated Materials. Springer Netherlands, Vol. 13, pp. 381-388.Cavalieri, F., Zhou, M., Tortora, M. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Ultrasound-assisted preparation of nanopolymeric and micropolymeric materials for the encapsulation of bioactive agents. In Manickam, S. and Ashokkumar, M. (eds.), Cavitation: A Novel Energy-Efficient Technique for the Generation of Nanomaterials. Pan Stanford Publishing, pp. 227-261.Gause, K.T., Yan, Y. and Caruso, F. (2014) Nanoengineered capsules: Moving into the biological realm. In Picart, C., Caruso, F. and Voegel, J.C. (eds.), Layer-by-Layer Films for Biomedical Applications, Wiley-VCH, Weinheim.Manickam, S., Ying, T. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Development of multifunctional nanomaterials by cavitation. In Manickam, S. and Ashokkumar, M. (eds.), Cavitation: A Novel Energy-Efficient Technique for the Generation of Nanomaterials. Pan Stanford Publishing, pp. 1-28.Mason, T.J., Chemat, F. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) 27 - Power ultrasonics for food processing. In Gallego-Juárez, J.A. and Graff, K.F. (eds.), Power Ultrasonics. Applications of High-intensity Ultrasound. Woodhead Publishing, Oxford, pp. 815-843.Provis, J.L., Brice, D.G., Buchwald, A., Duxson, P., Kavalerova, E., Krivenko, P.V., Shi, C., van Deventer, J.S.J. and Wiercx, J.A.L.M. (2014) Demonstration projects and applications in building and civil infrastructure. In Provis, J.L. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (eds.), Alkali Activated Materials. Springer Netherlands, Vol. 13, pp. 309-338.

Provis, J.L., Duxson, P., Kavalerova, E., Krivenko, P.V., Pan, Z., Puertas, F. and Van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Historical aspects and overview. In Provis, J.L. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (eds.), Alkali Activated Materials. Springer Netherlands, Vol. 13, pp. 11-57.Wiley, D.E.; Kentish, S.E.; Fimbres Weihs, G.A.; Ho, M.T. and Neal, P.R. (2014) Well to wheels environmental considerations. In Clark, R.; Thomson, M. (eds.), Transport Fuels from Australia’s Gas Resources: Advancing the nation’s energy security. UNSW Press, Sydney, Australia, pp. 162 – 206.

Refereed Journal Articles Ali, N., Duan, X.F., Jiang, Z.T., Goh, B.M., Lamb, R., Tadich, A., Poinern, G.E.J., Fawcett, D., Chapman, P. and Singh, P. (2014) Surface and interface analysis of poly-hydroxyethylmethacrylate-coated anodic aluminium oxide membranes. Applied Surface Science, 289, 560-563.Almeida, M., Chan, C., Pettigrove, V.J., Cattrall, R.W. and Kolev, S.D. (2014) Development of a passive sampler for Zinc(II) in urban pond waters using a polymer inclusion membrane. Environmental Pollution, 193, 233-239.Anandan, S., Asiri, A.M. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Ultrasound assisted synthesis of Sn nanoparticles-stabilized reduced graphene oxide nanodiscs. Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, 21, 920-923.Anderson, C., Hooper, B., Qader, A., Harkin, T., Smith, K., Mumford, K., Pandit, J., Ho, M., Lee, A., Nicholas, N., Indrawan, I., Guow, J., Xiao, G., Thanumurthy, N., Temple, N., Stevens, G. and Wiley, D. (2014) Recent developments in the UNO MK 3 process – A low cost environmentally benign precipitating solvent process for CO2 capture. Energy Procedia, 63, 1773-1780.Anderson, R., Buscall, R., Eldridge, R., Mulvaney, P. and Scales, P. (2014) Concentrated aqueous synthesis of nanoparticles using comb-graft copolymer stabilisers: the effect of stabiliser architecture. RSC Advances, 4, 46876-46886.Anderson, R., Buscall, R., Eldridge, R., Mulvaney, P. and Scales, P. (2014) Concentrated synthesis of metal nanoparticles in water. RSC Advances, 4, 31914-31925.Anderson, R., Buscall, R., Eldridge, R., Mulvaney, P. and Scales, P.J. (2014) Ostwald ripening of comb polymer stabilised Ag salt nanoparticles. Colloids and Surfaces A-Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, 459, 58-64.Arnott, J., Wu, A.H.F., Vucko, M.J. and Lamb, R.N. (2014) Marine antifouling from thin air. Biofouling, 30, 1045-1054.Azher, H., Scholes, C.A., Stevens, G.W. and Kentish, S.E. (2014) Water permeation and sorption properties of Nafion 115 at elevated temperatures. Journal of Membrane Science, 459, 104-113.Beattie, D.A., Addai-Mensah, J., Beaussart, A., Franks, G.V. and Yeap, K.Y. (2014) In situ particle film ATR FTIR spectroscopy of poly (N-isopropyl acrylamide) (PNIPAM) adsorption onto talc. Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics, 16, 25143-25151.Bekard, I. and Dunstan, D.E. (2014) Electric field induced changes in protein conformation. Soft Matter, 10, 431-437.

Berean, K., Ou, J.Z., Nour, M., Latham, K., McSweeney, C., Paull, D., Halim, A., Kentish, S., Doherty, C.M., Hill, A.J. and Kalantar-zadeh, K. (2014) The effect of crosslinking temperature on the permeability of PDMS membranes: Evidence of extraordinary CO2 and CH4 gas permeation. Separation and Purification Technology, 122, 96-104.Bernal, S.A., Nicolas, R.S., Myers, R.J., de Gutierrez, R.M., Puertas, F., van Deventer, J.S.J. and Provis, J.L. (2014) MgO content of slag controls phase evolution and structural changes induced by accelerated carbonation in alkali-activated binders. Cement and Concrete Research, 57, 33-43.Bernal, S.A., San Nicolas, R., Provis, J.L., de Gutierrez, R.M. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Natural carbonation of aged alkali-activated slag concretes. Materials and Structures, 47, 693-707.Berry, J.D., Davidson, M.R. and Harvie, D.J.E. (2014) Electroviscous flow through nanofluidic junctions. Applied Mathematical Modelling, 38, 4215-4225.Berry, J.D., Foong, A.E., Lade, C.E., Biscombe, C.J.C., Davidson, M.R. and Harvie, D.J.E. (2014) Electroviscous resistance of nanofluidic bends. Physical Review E, 90, 3008-3008.Biscombe, C.J.C., Davidson, M.R. and Harvie, D.J.E. (2014) Electrokinetic flow in parallel channels: Circuit modelling for microfluidics and membranes. Colloids and Surfaces A-Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, 440, 63-73.Björnmalm, M., Yan, Y. and Caruso, F. (2014) Engineering and evaluating drug delivery particles in microfluidic devices. Journal of Controlled Release, 190, 139-149.Blencowe, A., Tan, J.F., Goh, T.K., Goldie, K.N. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Development of amphiphilic multi-star polymers with highly grafted pyrene connectors as unimolecular encapsulation devices. Polymer Chemistry, 5, 1682-1692.Blencowe, A., Tan, J.F., Goh, T.K., Goldie, K.N., Zhang, X.H. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Synthesis of anisotropic, amphiphilic grafted multi-star polymers and investigation of their self-assembling characteristics. Australian Journal of Chemistry, 67, 49-58.Bradley, M., Ashokkumar, M. and Grieser, F. (2014) Multibubble sono luminescence in ethylene glycol/water mixtures. Journal of Physical Chemistry B, 118, 337-343.Buratto, B., Usher, S.P., Parris, D. and Scales, P.J. (2014) Wall effects during settling in cylinders. Colloids and Surfaces A-Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, 449, 157-169.Camenzuli, D., Freidman, B.L., Statham, T.M., Mumford, K.A. and Gore, D.B. (2014) On-site and in situ remediation technologies applicable to metal-contaminated sites in Antarctica and the Arctic: a review. Polar Research, 33, 21522-21522.Cao, L., Chen, D.H., Li, W. and Caruso, R.A. (2014) hierarchically porous titania networks with tunable anatase: Rutile ratios and their enhanced photocatalytic activities. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 6, 13129-13137.Chandrapala, J., Bui, D., Kentish, S. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Heat stability and acid gelation properties of calcium-

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enriched reconstituted skim milk affected by ultrasonication. Journal of Dairy Research, 81, 238-244.Chandrapala, J., Martin, G.J.O., Kentish, S.E. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Dissolution and reconstitution of casein micelle containing dairy powders by high shear using ultrasonic and physical methods. Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, 21, 1658-1665.Chandrapala, J., Zisu, B., Palmer, M., Kentish, S.E. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Sonication of milk protein solutions prior to spray drying and the subsequent effects on powders during storage. Journal of Food Engineering, 141, 122-127.Chen, X., Yan, Y., Müllner, M., van Koeverden, M.P., Noi, K.F., Zhu, W. and Caruso, F. (2014) Engineering Fluorescent Poly(dopamine) Capsules. Langmuir, 30, 2921-2925.Chen, Y., Huang, F.Z., Xiang, W.C., Chen, D.H., Cao, L., Spiccia, L., Caruso, R.A. and Cheng, Y.B. (2014) Effect of TiO2 microbead pore size on the performance of DSSCs with a cobalt based electrolyte. Nanoscale, 6, 13787-13794.Cho, K.L., Lomas, H., Hill, A.J., Caruso, F. and Kentish, S.E. (2014) Spray Assembled, Cross-Linked Polyelectrolyte Multilayer Membranes for Salt Removal. Langmuir, 30, 8784-8790.Choi, J., Lee, C., Hawkins, S.C., Huynh, C.P., Park, J., Jeon, Y., Truong, Y.B., Kyratzis, I.L., Shul, Y.G. and Caruso, R.A. (2014) Direct spun aligned carbon nanotube web-reinforced proton exchange membranes for fuel cells. RSC Advances, 4, 32787-32790.Christofferson, A.J., Yiapanis, G., Leung, A.H.M., Prime, E.L., Tran, D.N.H., Qiao, G.G., Solomon, D.H. and Yarovsky, I. (2014) Dynamic performance of duo layers at the air/water interface. 2. Mechanistic insights from all-atom simulations. Journal of Physical Chemistry B, 118, 10927-10933.Ciceri, D., Mason, L.R., Harvie, D.J.E., Perera, J.M. and Stevens, G.W. (2014) Extraction kinetics of Fe(III) by di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid using a Y-Y shaped microfluidic device. Chemical Engineering Research & Design, 92, 571-580.Ciceri, D., Perera, J.M. and Stevens, G.W. (2014) The use of microfluidic devices in solvent extraction. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, 89, 771-786.Cui, J.W., Björnmalm, M., Liang, K., Xu, C.L., Best, J.P., Zhang, X.H. and Caruso, F. (2014) Super-soft hydrogel particles with tunable elasticity in a microfluidic blood capillary model. Advanced Materials, 26, 7295-7299.Cui, J.W., Ju, Y., Liang, K., Ejima, H., Lörcher, S., Gause, K.T., Richardson, J.J. and Caruso, F. (2014) Nanoscale engineering of low-fouling surfaces through polydopamine immobilisation of zwitterionic peptides. Soft Matter, 10, 2656-2663.Cui, J.W., van Koeverden, M.P., Müllner, M., Kempe, K. and Caruso, F. (2014) Emerging methods for the fabrication of polymer capsules. Advances in Colloid and Interface Science, 207, 14-31.Dkhissi, Y., Huang, F.Z., Cheng, Y.B. and Caruso, R.A. (2014) Quasi-solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells on plastic substrates. Journal of Physical Chemistry C, 118, 16366-16374.

Doronila, A.I., Maddox, L.E., Reichman, S.M., King, D.J., Kolev, S.D. and Woodrow, I.E. (2014) Vegetation response of Australian native grass species redgrass (Bothriochloa macra (Steudel) S.T. Blake) and spider grass (Enteropogon acicularis (Lindl.) Lazarides) in saline and arsenic contaminated gold mine tailings: A glasshouse study. Minerals Engineering, 56, 61-69.Duan, H.M., Yang, Y.X., Patel, J., Dumbre, D., Bhargava, S.K., Burke, N., Zhai, Y.C. and Webley, P.A. (2014) A facile method to synthesis a mesoporous carbon supported methanol catalyst containing well dispersed Cu/ZnO. Materials Research Bulletin, 60, 232-237.Duan, H.M., Yang, Y.X., Singh, R., Chiang, K., Wang, S., Xiao, P., Patel, J., Danaci, D., Burke, N., Zhai, Y.C. and Webley, P.A. (2014) Mesoporous carbon-supported Cu/ZnO for methanol synthesis from carbon dioxide. Australian Journal of Chemistry, 67, 907-914.Dyett, B.P., Wu, A.H. and Lamb, R.N. (2014) mechanical stability of surface architecture-consequences for superhydrophobicity. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 6, 18380-18394.Dyett, B.P., Wu, A.H. and Lamb, R.N. (2014) Toward superhydrophobic and durable coatings: Effect of needle vs crater surface architecture. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 6, 9503-9507.Echlin, M.P., Mottura, A., Wang, M., Mignone, P.J., Riley, D.P., Franks, G.V. and Pollock, T.M. (2014) Three-dimensional characterization of the permeability of W-Cu composites using a new “TriBeam” technique. Acta Materialia, 64, 307-315.Ejima, H., Richardson, J.J. and Caruso, F. (2014) Phenolic film engineering for template-mediated microcapsule preparation. Polymer Journal, 46, 452-459.Fong, J.C.L.Y., Anderson, C., Hooper, B., Xiao, G., Webley, P.A., Hoadley, A. (2014) Multi-objective optimisation of hybrid CO2 capture processes using exergy analysis. Chemical Engineering Transactions, 39, 1501-1506. DOI:10.3303/CET1439251Fontas, C., Vera, R., Batalla, A., Kolev, S.D. and Antico, E. (2014) YY A novel low-cost detection method for screening of arsenic in groundwater. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 21, 11682-11688.Franks, G.V., O’Shea, J.P. and Forbes, E. (2014) Controlling thickener underflow rheology using a temperature responsive flocculant. AIChE Journal, 60, 2940-2948.Fu, Q., Wong, E.H.H., Kim, J., Scofield, J.M.P., Gurr, P.A., Kentish, S.E. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) The effect of soft nanoparticle morphologies on thin film composite membrane performance. Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 2, 17751-17756.Gao, S.P., Hemar, Y., Lewis, G.D. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Inactivation of Enterobacter aerogenes in reconstituted skim milk by high- and low-frequency ultrasound. Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, 21, 2099-2106.Gao, S.P., Lewis, G.D., Ashokkumar, M. and Hemar, Y. (2014) Inactivation of microorganisms by low-frequency high-power ultrasound: 1. Effect of growth phase and capsule properties of the bacteria. Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, 21, 446-453.

Gao, S.P., Lewis, G.D., Ashokkumar, M. and Hemar, Y. (2014) Inactivation of microorganisms by low-frequency high-power ultrasound: 2. A simple model for the inactivation mechanism. Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, 21, 454-460.

Go, D.P., Harvie, D.J.E., Tirtaatmadja, N., Gras, S.L. and O’Connor, A.J. (2014) A simple, scalable process for the production of porous polymer microspheres by ink-jetting combined with thermally induced phase separation. Particle & Particle Systems Characterization, 31, 685-698.

Grassia, P., Zhang, Y., Martin, A.D., Usher, S.P., Scales, P.J., Crust, A.H. and Spehar, R. (2014) Effects of aggregate densification upon thickening of Kynchian suspensions. Chemical Engineering Science, 111, 56-72.

Gunawan, S.T., Kempe, K., Such, G.K., Cui, J.W., Liang, K., Richardson, J.J., Johnston, A.P.R. and Caruso, F. (2014) Tuning particle biodegradation through polymer-peptide blend composition. Biomacromolecules, 15, 4429-4438.

Gunawan, S.T., Liang, K., Such, G.K., Johnston, A.P.R., Leung, M.K.M., Cui, J.W. and Caruso, F. (2014) Engineering enzyme-cleavable hybrid click capsules with a pH-sheddable coating for intracellular degradation. Small, 10, 4080-4086.

Guntari, S.N., Nam, E., Pranata, N.N., Chia, K., Wong, E.H.H., Blencowe, A., Goh, T.K., Caruso, F. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Fabrication of chiral stationary phases via continuous assembly of polymers for resolution of enantiomers by liquid chromatography. Macromolecular Materials and Engineering, 299, 1285-1291.

Guo, J.L., Ping, Y., Ejima, H., Alt, K., Meissner, M., Richardson, J.J., Yan, Y., Peter, K., von Elverfeldt, D., Hagemeyer, C.E. and Caruso, F. (2014) Engineering multifunctional capsules through the assembly of metal-phenolic networks. Angewandte Chemie-International Edition, 53, 5652–5657.

Gurr, P.A., Scofield, J.M.P., Kim, J., Fu, Q., Kentish, S.E. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Polyimide polydimethylsiloxane triblock copolymers for thin film composite gas separation membranes. Journal of Polymer Science Part A-Polymer Chemistry, 52, 3372-3382.

Halim, A., Fu, Q., Yong, Q., Gurr, P.A., Kentish, S.E. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Soft polymeric nanoparticle additives for next generation gas separation membranes. Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 2, 4999-5009.

Halim, A., Reid, T.D., Ren, J.M., Fu, Q., Gurr, P.A., Blencowe, A., Kentish, S.E. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Soft nanoparticles assembled from linear poly( ethylene glycol) and linear brush polydimethylsiloxane diblock copolymers. Journal of Polymer Science Part A-Polymer Chemistry, 52, 1251-1262.

Halim, R., Rupasinghe, T.W.T., Tull, D.L. and Webley, P.A. (2014) Modelling the kinetics of lipid extraction from wet microalgal concentrate: A novel perspective on a classical process. Chemical Engineering Journal, 242, 234-253.

Hartnett, T.E., Ladewig, K., O’Connor, A.J., Hartley, P.G. and McLean, K.M. (2014) Size and phase control of cubic lyotropic liquid crystal nanoparticles. Journal of Physical Chemistry B, 118, 7430-7439.

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Postgraduate student Christopher Bolton is interested in 3D printing with optically transparent materials in order to control the direction

of light for our laser microscopy experiments. Shown here at 10x magnification, one of the problems is diffusion of light resulting from the

roughness of printed materials.

PhD student Leonie van ‘t Hag

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Hsu, W.L., Harvie, D.J.E., Davidson, M.R., Jeong, H., Goldys, E.M. and Inglis, D.W. (2014) Concentration gradient focusing and separation in a silica nanofluidic channel with a non-uniform electroosmotic flow. Lab on a Chip, 14, 3539-3549.Hsu, W.L., Inglis, D.W., Jeong, H., Dunstan, D.E., Davidson, M.R., Goldys, E.M. and Harvie, D.J.E. (2014) Stationary chemical gradients for concentration gradient-based separation and focusing in nanofluidic channels. Langmuir, 30, 5337-5348.Hsu, W.L., Inglis, D.W., Startsev, M.A., Goldys, E.M., Davidson, M.R. and Harvie, D.J.E. (2014) Isoelectric focusing in a silica nanofluidic channel: effects of electromigration and electroosmosis. Analytical Chemistry, 86, 8711-8718.Huang, F.Z., Chen, D.H., Chen, Y., Caruso, R.A. and Cheng, Y.B. (2014) Mesoporous titania beads for flexible dye-sensitized solar cells. Journal of Materials Chemistry C, 2, 1284-1289.Huang, F., Dkhissi, Y., Huang, W., Xiao, M., Benesperi, I., Rubanov, S., Zhu, Y., Lin, X.F., Jiang, L.C., Zhou, Y.C. et al. (2014) Gas-assisted preparation of lead iodide perovskite films consisting of a monolayer of single crystalline grains for high efficiency planar solar cells. Nano Energy, 10, 10-18.Ismail, I., Bernal, S.A., Provis, J.L., San Nicolas, R., Hamdan, S. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Modification of phase evolution in alkali-activated blast furnace slag by the incorporation of fly ash. Cement and Concrete Composites, 45, 125-135.Jayawardane, B.M., Wei, S., McKelvie, I.D. and Kolev, S.D. (2014) Microfluidic paper-based analytical device for the determination of nitrite and nitrate. Analytical Chemistry, 86, 7274-7279.Jayawardane, B.M., Wongwilai, W., Grudpan, K., Kolev, S.D., Heaven, M.W., Nash, D.M. and McKelvie, I.D. (2014) Evaluation and application of a paper-based device for the determination of reactive phosphate in soil solution. Journal of Environmental Quality, 43, 1081-1085.Jeldres, R.I., Toledo, P.G., Concha, F., Stickland, A.D., Usher, S.P. and Scales, P.J. (2014) Impact of seawater salts on the viscoelastic behavior of flocculated mineral suspensions. Colloids and Surfaces A-Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, 461, 295-302.Kashani, A., Provis, J.L., Qiao, G.G. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) The interrelationship between surface chemistry and rheology in alkali activated slag paste. Construction and Building Materials, 65, 583-591.Kashani, A., Provis, J.L., Xu, J.T., Kilcullen, A.R., Qiao, G.G. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Effect of molecular architecture of polycarboxylate ethers on plasticizing performance in alkali-activated slag paste. Journal of Materials Science, 49, 2761-2772.Kashani, A., San Nicolas, R., Qiao, G.G., van Deventer, J.S.J. and Provis, J.L. (2014) Modelling the yield stress of ternary cement-slag-fly ash pastes based on particle size distribution. Powder Technology, 266, 203-209.Kempe, K., Ng, S.L., Gunawan, S.T., Noi, K.F. and Caruso, F. (2014) Intracellularly degradable hydrogen-bonded polymer capsules. Advanced Functional Materials, 24, 6187-6194.

Kempe, K., Noi, K.F., Ng, S.L., Müllner, M. and Caruso, F. (2014) Multilayered polymer capsules with switchable permeability. Polymer, 55, 6451-6459.Kezia, K., Lee, J., Ogieglo, W., Hill, A., Benes, N.E. and Kentish, S.E. (2014) The transport of hydronium and hydroxide ions through reverse osmosis membranes. Journal of Membrane Science, 459, 197-206.Klaseboer, E., Manica, R. and Chan, D.Y.C. (2014) Universal behavior of the initial stage of drop impact. Physical Review Letters, 113, 4501-4501.Klaseboer, E., Manica, R., Hendrix, M.H.W., Ohl, C.D. and Chan, D.Y.C. (2014) A force balance model for the motion, impact, and bounce of bubbles. Physics of Fluids, 26, 92101-92101.Koh, L.L.A., Chandrapala, J., Zisu, B., Martin, G.J.O., Kentish, S.E. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) A comparison of the effectiveness of sonication, high shear mixing and homogenisation on improving the heat stability of whey protein solutions. Food and Bioprocess Technology, 7, 556-566.Koh, L.L.A., Nguyen, T.H., Chandrapala, J., Zisu, B., Ashokkumar, M. and Kentish, S.E. (2014) The use of ultrasonic feed pre-treatment to reduce membrane fouling in whey ultrafiltration. Journal of Membrane Science, 453, 230-239.Krupadam, R.J., Korde, B.A., Ashokkumar, M. and Kolev, S.D. (2014) Novel molecularly imprinted polymeric microspheres for preconcentration and preservation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from environmental samples. Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, 406, 5313-5321.Lam, S.J., Sulistio, A., Ladewig, K., Wong, E.H.H., Blencowe, A. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Peptide-based star polymers as potential siRNA carriers. Australian Journal of Chemistry, 67, 592-597.Lang, Y., Finn, D.P., Caruso, F. and Pandit, A. (2014) Fabrication of nanopatterned polymeric microparticles using a diatom as a sacrificial template. RSC Advances, 4, 44418-44422.Lee, J., Ashokkumar, M. and Kentish, S.E. (2014) Influence of mixing and ultrasound frequency on antisolvent crystallisation of sodium chloride. Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, 21, 60-68.Lee, L., Johnston, A.P.R. and Caruso, F. (2014) Programmed degradation of DNA multilayer films. Small, 10, 2902-2909.Leo, S., Tallon, C. and Franks, G.V. (2014) Aqueous and nonaqueous colloidal processing of difficult-to-densify ceramics: Suspension rheology and particle packing. Journal of the American Ceramic Society, 97, 3807-3817.Leo, S., Tallon, C., Stone, N. and Franks, G.V. (2014) Near-net-shaping methods for ceramic elements of (body) armor systems. Journal of the American Ceramic Society, 97, 3013-3033.Leong, T., Yasui, K., Kato, K., Harvie, D., Ashokkumar, M. and Kentish, S. (2014) Effect of surfactants on single bubble sonoluminescence behavior and bubble surface stability. Physical Review E, 89, 043007.Lester, D.R., Buscall, R., Stickland, A.D. and Scales, P.J. (2014) Wall adhesion and constitutive modeling of strong colloidal gels. Journal of Rheology, 58, 1247-1276.Leung, A.H.M., Prime, E.L., Tran, D.N.H., Fu, Q., Christofferson, A.J., Yiapanis, G., Yarovsky, I.,

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& Technology, 37, 42-50.Remy, T., Gobechiya, E., Danaci, D., Peter, S. A., Xiao, P., Van Tendeloo, L., Couck, S., Shang, J., Kirschhock, C. E. A., Singh, R. K., Martens, J. A., Baron, G. V., Webley, P. A. and Denayer, J. F. M. (2014) Biogas upgrading through kinetic separation of carbon dioxide and methane over Rb- and Cs-ZK-5 zeolites. RSC Advances, 4, 62511-62524.Ren, J.M. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Synthetic strategies towards well-defined complex polymeric architectures through covalent chemistry. Chemie Ingenieur Technik, 86, 2195-2214.Ren, J.M., Satoh, K., Goh, T.K., Blencowe, A., Nagai, K., Ishitake, K., Christofferson, A.J., Yiapanis, G., Yarovsky, I., Kamigaito, M. et al. (2014) Stereospecific cyclic poly(methyl methacrylate) and its topology-guided hierarchically controlled supramolecular assemblies. Angewandte Chemie-International Edition, 53, 459-464.Richardson, J.J., Björnmalm, M., Gunawan, S.T., Guo, J.L., Liang, K., Tardy, B., Sekiguchi, S., Noi, K.F., Cui, J.W., Ejima, H. et al. (2014) Convective polymer assembly for the deposition of nanostructures and polymer thin films on immobilized particles. Nanoscale, 6, 13416-13420.Richardson, J.J., Teng, D., Björnmalm, M., Gunawan, S.T., Guo, J., Cui, J.W., Franks, G.V. and Caruso, F. (2014) Fluidized bed layer-by-layer microcapsule formation. Langmuir, 30, 10028-10034.San Nicolas, R., Bernal, S.A., de Gutierrez, R.M., van Deventer, J.S.J. and Provis, J.L. (2014) Distinctive microstructural features of aged sodium silicate-activated slag concretes. Cement and Concrete Research, 65, 41-51.Sarvi, M.N., Bee, T.B., Gooi, C.K., Woonton, B.W., Gee, M.L. and O’Connor, A.J. (2014) Development of functionalized mesoporous silica for adsorption and separation of dairy proteins. Chemical Engineering Journal, 235, 244-251.Satchawan, S., Naksata, W., Rattanakawin, C., Thiansem, S., Panya, P., Sooksamiti, P., Scales, P.J. and Arqueropanyo, O.A. (2014) Effect of sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate on the dispersion stability of ceramic glaze suspension. Korean Journal of Chemical Engineering, 31, 1076-1081.Sayanjali, S., Sanguansri, L., Buckow, R., Gras, S. and Augustin, M.A. (2014) Oat fiber as a carrier for curcuminoids. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 62, 12172-12177.Scholes, C.A., Freeman, B.D. and Kentish, S.E. (2014) Water vapor permeability and competitive sorption in thermally rearranged (TR) membranes. Journal of Membrane Science, 470, 132-137.Scholes, C.A., Ho, M.T., Aguiar, A.A., Wiley, D.E., Stevens, G.W. and Kentish, S.E. (2014) Membrane gas separation processes for CO2 capture from cement kiln flue gas. International Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control, 24, 78-86.Scholes, C.A., Motuzas, J., Smart, S. and Kentish, S.E. (2014) Membrane adhesives. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 53, 9523-9533.Scholes, C.A., Qader, A., Stevens, G.W. and Kentish, S.E. (2014) Membrane gas-solvent contactor pilot plant trials of CO2 absorption

from flue gas. Separation Science and Technology, 49, 2449-2458.Scholes, C.A., Ribeiro, C.P., Kentish, S.E. and Freeman, B.D. (2014) Thermal rearranged poly(benzoxazole)/polyimide blended membranes for CO2 separation. Separation and Purification Technology, 124, 134-140.Scholes, C.A., Ribeiro, C.P., Kentish, S.E. and Freeman, B.D. (2014) Thermal rearranged poly(benzoxazole-co-imide) membranes for CO2 separation. Journal of Membrane Science, 450, 72-80.Shang, J., Li, G., Singh, R., Xiao, P., Danaci, D., Liu, J.Z. and Webley, P.A. (2014) Adsorption of CO2, N2, and CH4 in Cs-exchanged chabazite: A combination of van der Waals density functional theory calculations and experiment study. The Journal of Chemical Physics, 140, 084705.Shang, J., Li, G., Gu, Q.F., Singh, R., Xiao, P., Liu, J.Z. and Webley, P.A. (2014) Temperature controlled invertible selectivity for adsorption of N2 and CH4 by molecular trapdoor chabazites. Chemical Communications, 50, 4544-4546.Shanmugam, A. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Functional properties of ultrasonically generated flaxseed oil-dairy emulsions. Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, 21, 1649-1657.Shanmugam, A. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Ultrasonic preparation of stable flax seed oil emulsions in dairy systems - Physicochemical characterization. Food Hydrocolloids, 39, 151-162.Shi, C., Chan, D.Y.C., Liu, Q.X. and Zeng, H.B. (2014) Probing the hydrophobic interaction between air bubbles and partially hydrophobic surfaces using atomic force microscopy. Journal of Physical Chemistry C, 118, 25000-25008.Simovich, T., Wu, A.H. and Lamb, R.N. (2014) Energy efficient one-pot synthesis of durable superhydrophobic coating through nylon micro-rods. Applied Surface Science, 295, 203-206.Simpson, D.A., Thompson, A.J., Kowarsky, M., Zeeshan, N.F., Barson, M.S.J., Hall, L.T., Yan, Y., Kaufmann, S., Johnson, B.C., Ohshima, T., Caruso, F., Scholten, R.E., Saint, R.B., Murray, M.J. and Hollenberg, L.C.L. (2014) In vivo imaging and tracking of individual nanodiamonds in drosophila melanogaster embryos. Biomedical Optics Express, 5, 1250-1261.Smith, K., Xiao, G., Mumford, K., Gouw, J., Indrawan, I., Thanumurthy, N., Quyn, D., Cuthbertson, R., Rayer, A., Nicholas, N., Lee, A., da Silva, G., Kentish, S., Harkin, T., Qader, A., Anderson, C., Hooper, B. and Stevens, G. (2014) Demonstration of a concentrated potassium carbonate process for CO2 capture. Energy & Fuels, 28, 299-306.Soodam, K., Ong, L., Powell, I.B., Kentish, S.E. and Gras, S.L. (2014) the effect of milk protein concentration on the microstructure and textural properties of full fat Cheddar cheese during ripening. Food and Bioprocess Technology, 7, 2912-2922.Sowa, B., Zhang, X.H., Hartley, P.G., Dunstan, D.E., Kozielski, K.A. and Maeda, N. (2014) Formation of ice, tetrahydrofuran hydrate, and methane/propane mixed gas hydrates in strong monovalent salt solutions. Energy & Fuels, 28,

6877-6888.Sowa, B., Zhang, X.H., Kozielski, K.A., Dunstan, D.E., Hartley, P.G. and Maeda, N. (2014) Study of electrical conductivity response upon formation of ice and gas hydrates from salt solutions by a second generation high pressure electrical conductivity probe. Review of Scientific Instruments, 85, 15101-15101.Sraj, L.O., Almeida, M., Swearer, S.E., Kolev, S.D. and McKelvie, I.D. (2014) Analytical challenges and advantages of using flow-based methodologies for ammonia determination in estuarine and marine waters. Trac-Trends in Analytical Chemistry, 59, 83-92.Stickland, A.D., Teo, H.E., Franks, G.V. and Scales, P.J. (2014) Compressive strength and capillary pressure: Competing properties of particulate suspensions that determine the onset of desaturation. Drying Technology, 32, 1614-1620.Sun, Q., Klaseboer, E., Khoo, B.C. and Chan, D.Y.C. (2014) A robust and non-singular formulation of the boundary integral method for the potential problem. Engineering Analysis with Boundary Elements, 43, 117-123.Tabor, R.F., Grieser, F., Dagastine, R.R. and Chan, D.Y.C. (2014) The hydrophobic force: measurements and methods. Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics, 16, 18065-18075.Tan, M.L., Shao, P., Friedhuber, A.M., van Moorst, M., Elahy, M., Indumathy, S., Dunstan, D.E., Wei, Y.Z. and Dass, C.R. (2014) The potential role of free chitosan in bone trauma and bone cancer management. Biomaterials, 35, 7828-7838.Tan, S., Ladewig, K., Fu, Q., Blencowe, A. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Cyclodextrin-based supramolecular assemblies and hydrogels: Recent advances and future perspectives. Macromolecular Rapid Communications, 35, 1166-1184.Tan, S., Rupasinghe, T.W.T., Tull, D.L., Boughton, B., Oliver, C., McSweeny, C., Gras, S.L. and Augustin, M.A. (2014) Degradation of curcuminoids by in vitro pure culture fermentation. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 62, 11005-11015.Tan, S., Wong, E.H.H., Fu, Q., Ren, J.M., Sulistio, A., Ladewig, K., Blencowe, A. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Azobenzene-functionalised core cross-linked star polymers and their host-guest interactions. Australian Journal of Chemistry, 67, 173-178.Tardy, B.L., Dam, H.H., Kamphuis, M.M.J., Richardson, J.J. and Caruso, F. (2014) Self-assembled stimuli-responsive polyrotaxane core-shell particles. Biomacromolecules, 15, 53-59.Thangavadivel, K., Owens, G., Okitsu, K. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Effect of partitioning on sonochemical reactor performance under 200 kHz indirect sonication. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 53, 9340-9347.Thee, H., Nicholas, N.J., Smith, K.H., da Silva, G., Kentish, S.E. and Stevens, G.W. (2014) A kinetic study of CO2 capture with potassium carbonate solutions promoted with various amino acids: Glycine, sarcosine and proline. International Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control, 20, 212-222.Theerthagiri, J., Senthil, R.A., Priya, A., Madhavan, J., Michael, R.J.V. and

81

Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical studies of visible-light active alpha-Fe2O3-g-C3N4 nanocomposites. RSC Advances, 4, 38222-38229.

Tordesillas, A., Carey, D., Croll, A.B., Shi, J.Y. and Gurmessa, B. (2014) Micromechanics of elastic buckling of a colloidal polymer layer on a soft substrate: experiment and theory. Granular Matter, 16, 249-258.

Tordesillas, A., Hilton, J.E. and Tobin, S.T. (2014) Stick-slip and force chain evolution in a granular bed in response to a grain intruder. Physical Review E, 89, 2207-2207.

Tordesillas, A., Pucilowski, S., Walker, D.M., Peters, J.F. and Walizer, L.E. (2014) Micromechanics of vortices in granular media: connection to shear bands and implications for continuum modelling of failure in geomaterials. International Journal for Numerical and Analytical Methods in Geomechanics, 38, 1247-1275.

Tordesillas, A., Steer, C.A.H. and Walker, D.M. (2014) Force chain and contact cycle evolution in a dense granular material under shallow penetration. Nonlinear Processes in Geophysics, 21, 505-519.

Tran, P.A., Biswas, D.P. and O’Connor, A.J. (2014) Simple one-step method to produce titanium dioxide-polycaprolactone composite films with increased hydrophilicity, enhanced cellular interaction and improved degradation for skin tissue engineering. Journal of Materials Science, 49, 6373-6382.

Udomprasert, A., Bongiovanni, M.N., Sha, R.J., Sherman, W.B., Wang, T., Arora, P.S., Canary, J.W., Gras, S.L. and Seeman, N.C. (2014) Amyloid fibrils nucleated and organized by DNA origami constructions. Nature Nanotechnology, 9, 537-541.

Vakarelski, I.U., Chan, D.Y.C. and Thoroddsen, S.T. (2014) Leidenfrost vapour layer moderation of the drag crisis and trajectories of superhydrophobic and hydrophilic spheres falling in water. Soft Matter, 10, 5662-5668.

Vong, F., Son, Y., Bhuiyan, S., Zhou, M.F., Cavalieri, F. and Ashokkumar, M. (2014) A comparison of the physical properties of ultrasonically synthesized lysozyme- and BSA-shelled microbubbles. Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, 21, 23-28.

Walker, D.M., Tordesillas, A. and Froyland, G. (2014) Mesoscale and macroscale kinetic energy fluxes from granular fabric evolution. Physical Review E, 89, 2205-2205.

Walker, D.M., Tordesillas, A., Ren, J., Dijksman, J.A. and Behringer, R.P. (2014) Uncovering temporal transitions and self-organization during slow aging of dense granular media in the absence of shear bands. EPL, 107, 18005-18005.

Walker, D.M., Tordesillas, A., Small, M., Behringer, R.P. and Tse, C.K. (2014) A complex systems analysis of stick-slip dynamics of a laboratory fault. Chaos, 24, 13132-13132.

Wang, C., Wu, A.H.F. and Lamb, R.N. (2014) Superhydrophobicity and optical transparency in thin films: Criteria for coexistence. Journal of Physical Chemistry C, 118, 5328-5335.

Wang, H.B. and Gee, M.L. (2014) AFM lateral force calibration for an integrated probe using a calibration grating. Ultramicroscopy, 136, 193-200.Wang, Y.J., Wise, A.K., Tan, J., Maina, J.W., Shepherd, R.K. and Caruso, F. (2014) mesoporous silica supraparticles for sustained inner-ear drug delivery. Small, 10, 4244-4248.Watanabe, Y., Yamada, H., Ikoma, T., Tanaka, J., Stevens, G.W. and Komatsu, Y. (2014) Preparation of a zeolite NaP1/hydroxyapatite nanocomposite and study of its behavior as inorganic fertilizer. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, 89, 963-968.Webley, P.A. (2014) Adsorption technology for CO2 separation and capture: a perspective. Adsorption-Journal of the International Adsorption Society, 20, 225-231.Webley, P.A. and Zhang, J. (2014) Microwave assisted vacuum regeneration for CO2 capture from wet flue gas. Adsorption-Journal of the International Adsorption Society, 20, 201-210.Wibowo, S.H., Sulistio, A., Wong, E.H.H., Blencowe, A. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Tailoring substrate hydrophilicity using grafted polypeptide nanocoatings. Australian Journal of Chemistry, 67, 598-602.Wibowo, S.H., Sulistio, A., Wong, E.H.H., Blencowe, A. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Polypeptide films via N-carboxyanhydride ring-opening polymerization (NCA-ROP): past, present and future. Chemical Communications, 50, 4971-4988.Wong, E.H.H., Lam, S.J., Nam, E. and Qiao, G.G. (2014) Biocompatible single-chain polymeric nanoparticles via organo-catalyzed ring-opening polymerization. ACS Macro Letters, 3, 524-528.Wu, C., Chan, D.Y.C. and Tabor, R.F. (2014) A simple and accurate method for calculation of the structure factor of interacting charged spheres. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, 426, 80-82.Xia, F., Chen, D.H., Scarlett, N.V.Y., Madsen, I.C., Lau, D., Leoni, M., Ilavsky, J., Brand, H.E.A. and Caruso, R.A. (2014) Understanding solvothermal crystallization of mesoporous anatase beads by in situ synchrotron PXRD and SAXS. Chemistry of Materials, 26, 4563-4571.Xu, C.L., Peng, S.H., Qiao, G.G., Gutowski, V., Lohse, D. and Zhang, X.H. (2014) Nanobubble formation on a warmer substrate. Soft Matter, 10, 7857-7864.Xu, G.S., Wang, K., Zhong, Z.X., Chen, C.S., Webley, P.A. and Wang, H.T. (2014) SiC nanofiber reinforced porous ceramic hollow fiber membranes. Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 2, 5841-5846.Yan, Y., Björnmalm, M. and Caruso, F. (2014) Assembly of layer-by-layer particles and their interactions with biological systems. Chemistry of Materials, 26, 452-460.Yang, H.J., Peng, S.H., Hao, X.T., Smith, T.A., Qiao, G.G. and Zhang, X.H. (2014) Surfactant-mediated formation of polymeric microlenses from interfacial microdroplets. Soft Matter, 10, 957-964.Yap, B.H.J., Crawford, S.A., Dumsday, G.J., Scales, P.J. and Martin, G.J.O. (2014) A mechanistic study of algal cell disruption and its effect on lipid recovery by solvent extraction. Algal Research-Biomass Biofuels and Bioproducts, 5, 112-120.

Unrefereed Journal Articles Grieser, F. (2014) The amazing bubble. Australasian Science, 35, 31.

Refereed Conference Papers Henderson, T., Ladewig, K., Haylock, D., Mclean, K. and O’Connor, A. (2014) Tailorable macro-porous hyaluronic acid cryogels for cell culture and tissue engineering. Poster Presentations. Journal of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, 8: 352-353. doi: 10.1002/term.1932

Hunter, T.N., Usher, S.P., Biggs, S., Scales, P.J., Stickland, A.D. and Franks, G.V. (2014) Characterization of bed densification in a laboratory scale thickener by novel application of an acoustic backscatter system, In Proceedings of the 7th World Congress on Particle Technology (WCPT7), Beijing, China.

Jeldres, R., Scales, P., Usher, S., Stickland, A., Toledo, P. and Concha, F. (2014) Impact of seawater salt on the viscoelastic behaviour of flocculated mineral suspensions. In Yianatos, J., Doll, A., Gomez, C. and Kuyvenhoven, R., (eds.), Proceedings of XXVII International Mineral Processing Congress – IMPC 2014. Santiago, Chile.

Provis, J.L., Bernal, S.A., Ismail, I. San Nicolas, R., Brice, D.G. and Van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Comparing the influence of fly ash on the durability properties of Portland cement-based and alkali activated slag-based concretes. Proceedings of XIII International Conference on Durability of Building Materials and Components (XIII DBMC), 68th RILEM Annual Week, São Paulo, Brazil.

Van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) A crystal ball vision of innovation in mineral processing. In Yianatos, J., Doll, A., Gomez, C. and Kuyvenhoven, R., (eds.), Proceedings of XXVII International Mineral Processing Congress – IMPC 2014. Santiago, Chile.

Walkley, B., Provis, J.L., San Nicolas, R. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Stoichiometrically controlled C-A-S-H/N-A-S-H gel blends via alkali-activation of synthetic precursors. In Bernal, S. A. and Provis, J. L. (eds.), Proceedings of the 34th Cement and Concrete Science Conference and Workshop on Waste Cementation, Sheffield, England.

Walkley, B., Provis, J.L., San Nicolas, R. and van Deventer, J.S.J. (2014) Structural analysis of biphasic stoichiometrically controlled geopolymers. In Bilek, V. and Kersner, Z. (eds.) Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Non-Traditional Cement & Concrete, Brno, Czech Republic.

Other Ashokkumar, M. (2014) Editorial Note. Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, 21, 1907.

Qiao, G.G. (2014) Frontiers in sino-australian polymer science and engineering foreword. Australian Journal of Chemistry, 67, 3-5.

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Research Funding

Professor Paul Webley

PFPC researchers actively seek funding for their research from nationally competitive research funding schemes including the Australian Research Council (ARC) and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). They are successful in winning funding from the Victorian Government, from the host institutional grants schemes and attract both in-kind and cash support from industry. The ARC Special Research Centre grant did not provide direct funds to support these additional research grants, however the research projects listed in this section use the research facilities established by the Centre.

The following grants were awarded to PFPC members in 2014.

83

ARC Fellowships/AwardsResearcher Fellowship Type Duration

Frank Caruso Laureate Fellowship 2012-2017

Francesca Cavelieri Future Fellowship 2014-2018

Franz Grieser Australian Professorial Fellowhsip 2011-2015

Judy Lee Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) 2012-2014

Greg Qiao Future Fellowship 2011-2015

Georgina Such Future Fellowship 2012-2016

Yan (Annie) Yan Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) 2013-2015

ARC Super Science FellowshipsChief Investigators (PFPC members in bold)

Administering Institute

Fellows Appointed Application ID

Title Sponsor Funding*

F.Caruso, G.W.Stevens, G.G.Qiao, S.E.Kentish

The University of Melbourne

Jiwei Cui Qiang Fu Katharina Ladewig

FS110200025 Nanoengineered polymeric materials for environmental and biological applications

$184,605

ARC Discovery - ProjectsChief Investigators (PFPC members in bold)

Administering Institute

Partner Organisations

Application ID

Title Sponsor Funding*

F.Caruso, G.G.Qiao The University of Melbourne

DP130101846 Development of next-generation nanoengineered advanced materials for targeted applications

$192,574

D.Y.Chan The University of Melbourne

DP140100558 Modelling of soft multi-scale systems

$110,234

D.Y.Chan, R.R.Dagastine, R.F.Tabor

The University of Melbourne

Monash University

DP140100677 Breaking emulsions $123,626

F.Grieser, M.Ashokkumar, K.Yasui

The University of Melbourne

DP110101090 Free radical generation and reactions in ultrasound assisted processes

$225,767

R.N.Lamb, M.Grunze, A.Rosenhahn

The University of Melbourne

DP120104536 Tunable antifouling behaviour on rough surfaces

$144,433

G.G.Qiao, W.Duan, K.Dawson

The University of Melbourne

DP140100002 Peptide-based star polymers for improved biointeraction and targeted anticancer therapies

$154,533

G.W.Stevens The University of Melbourne

DP120103073 Influence of additives in solvent extraction processes

$116,657

A.Tordesillas The University of Melbourne

DP120104759 A complex systems approach to granular rheology: interconnecting topology, stability, dynamics and function

$122,212

P.A.Webley, Z.Liu The University of Melbourne

Monash University

DP130103708 Advanced adsorbents for gas separations

$101,303

* Reported figures are actual income received by PFPC researchers in the 2014 calendar year

84

ARC Linkage - Infrastructure, Equipment and FacilitiesChief Investigators (PFPC members in bold)

Administering Institute

Partner Organisations

Application ID

Sponsor Funding**

UniMelb Contribution*

D.G.McCulloch, J.R.Friend, M.Bhaskaran, J.Etheridge, Y.-B.Cheng, P.Mulvaney, S.Prawer, M.M.Bilek, S.Juodkazis, D.Abbott, Y.Tachibana, S.Bhargava, R.A.Caruso, S.L.McArthur, R.F.Weinberg, A.M.Funston, B.T.Kuhlmey, M.Lapine, C.Fumeaux

RMIT University Monash University, The University of Melbourne, The University of Sydney, Swinburne University of Technology, The University of Adelaide

LE140100104 $500,000 $90,000

G.G.Qiao, N.H.Voelcker, A.K.Whittaker, G.P.Simon, S.E.Kentish, R.D.Short, A.Blencowe, H.J.Griesser, D.E.Dunstan, G.V.Franks, J.R.Stokes, I.Blakey, Q.Chen, E.H.Wong

The University of Melbourne

University of South Australia, The University of Queensland, Monash University

LE140100087 $410,000 $192,000

F.Separovic, M.-I.Aguilar, D.W.Keizer, M.J.Stone, A.J.O’Connor, M.-A.Sani, E.C.Nice, M.E.Call

The University of Melbourne

Monash University, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research

LE140100068 $280,000 $280,000

ARC Linkage - Industrial Transformation Research HubsChief Investigators (PFPC members in bold)

Administering Institute

Partner Organisations

Title ARC Funding*

Industry Contribution*

UniMelb Contribution*

F.R.Dunshea, G.G.Qiao, Y.Kashima, S.Fuentes, M.Ashokkumar, E.M.Webster, R.R.Dagastine, D.Samson, A.Paladino, M.Hastie, A.J.Barlow, N.Georges, L.Vernalls, L.Gravina, S.Talbot

The University of Melbourne

Mondelēz International

Unlocking the food value chain: Australian food industry transformation for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) markets

$248,012 $16,000 $80,127

S.L.Gras, S.E.Kentish, M.Ashokkumar, G.J.Martin, D.E..Dunstan, B.R.Bhandari, M.S.Turner, N.Bansal, S.Prakash, M.V.Palmer, I.B.Powell, M.Weeks, B.Meurer, C.J.Pillidge, M.C.Broome, B.Zisu

The University of Melbourne

The University of Queensland, Dairy Innovation Australia

Dairy Innovation Hub: transformational research to underpin the future of the Australian dairy manufacturing industry

$626,745 $263,760 $125,000

* Reported figures are actual income received by PFPC researchers in the 2014 calendar year ** Reported figures are the contract amount of the grant

85

ARC Linkage - ProjectsChief Investigators (PFPC members in bold)

Partner Organisations

Industry Sponsor Application ID

Title ARC Funding*

Industry Contribution*

D.E.Dunstan, G.J.Martin, V.Chen, D.J.Harvie, M.R.Davidson, E.Ponnampalam

University of New South Wales

Dairy Innovation Australia Ltd

LP110200570 A fundamental study of milk ultrafiltration

$11,426 $81,250

S.L.Gras, D.Tillett, G.J.Martin, A.D.Stickland, P.J.Scales

La Trobe University

Melbourne Water Corporation, SA Water Corporation, Water Corporation of WA

LP120100304 Bacteriophages for foam control in wastewater processing

$77,771 $85,000

S.D.Kolev, J.D.Gregory, S.Ebbs, M.Miro, K.J.Zuccala

Melbourne Water Corporation, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, University of the Balearic Islands, Victorian Environmental Protection Authority

LP120200628 The pollution potential of mercury in legacy biosolids and possibilities for its minimisation by phytoremediation and phytostabilisation approaches

$116,657 $40,000

S.D.Kolev, V.Pettigrove

Melbourne Water Corporation

LP110200595 Development of novel passive sampling devices for ammonia monitoring

$47,962 $85,000

G.G.Qiao, R.J.Prankerd, A.Blencowe, P.A.Gurr, R.J.Tait, A.C.Donohue

Monash University

PolyActiva Pty Ltd LP120200010 Novel click assembled drug-polymer conjugates as next generation drug delivery systems

$8,437 $0

P.J.Scales, A.D.Stickland, S.P.Usher, C.A.Rees, M.Devadas

Melbourne Water Corporation

LP130100395 Reducing land and infrastructure requirements for water evaporation from biosludge through dry stacking

$96,287 $80,000

G.W.Stevens, K.Mumford, K.A.Dudley

BHP Billiton Olympic Dam

LP130100305 Improving performance of solvent extraction equipment for the minerals processing industry

$106,986 $200,000

G.W.Stevens, C.Scott, T.A.Bowser

GlaxoSmithKline Australia Pty Ltd

LP140100650 Environmentally sustainable solvents for natural pharmaceutical extraction processes

$70,824 $0

* Reported figures are actual income received by PFPC researchers in the 2014 calendar year

86

ARC Centre of ExcellenceChief Investigators (PFPC members in bold)

Administering Institute

Partner Organisations

Application ID

Title ARC Funding*

UniMelb Contribution*

T.Davis, F.Caruso, C.Porter, J.Gooding, N.Voelcker, T.Nann, A.Whittaker, N.Bunnett, M.Kendall, E.Crampin, S.Kent, R.Parton, B.Boyd, M.Kearnes, K.Thurecht, A.Johnson, M.Kavallaris, S.Corrie, P.Thordarson

The University of Melbourne

CSIRO, Australia; Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea; University of Wisconsin, USA; University of Warwick, UK; University of Nottingham, UK; Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Australia; Imperial College London, UK; Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, USA; University College Dublin, Ireland; University of California, Santa Barbara, USA

CE140100036 ARC Center of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology

$353,667 $177,667

Industry and ContractsChief Investigators (PFPC members in bold)

Sponsor Partner Organisations

Title Sponsor Funding*

R.R.Dagastine Unilever UK Ltd N/A $72,856

S.L.Gras, R.R.Dagastine, S.E.Kentish

Dairy Innovation Australia Limited (DIAL)

Curd microstructure: Salting and capability development

$80,082

S.L.Gras, S.E.Kentish Dairy Innovation Australia Limited (DIAL)

Microstructure in mature Cheddar cheese

$11,250

P.J.Scales, P.Fawell AMIRA P266G Project CSIRO Thickener optimisation for the minerals industry

$85,000

B.K.Skomra, A.D.Stickland, R.J.Batterham, P.J.Scales, M.Brear, A.Tordesillas

Development Technology Voucher - Department of State Development Business and Innovation (DSDBI); MBD Energy Ltd

Modified high pressure grinding rolls for dewatering of algal biomass

$30,000

G.W.Stevens GlaxoSmithKline Australia Pty Ltd

Analysis of GSK solvent extraction column performance

$54,000

G.W.Stevens BHP Billiton Olympic Dam Corporation Pty Ltd

Optimising Bateman Pulsed Column technology at Olympic Dam

$107,500

G.W.Stevens, K.Day Rio Tinto Services Ltd via CO2CRC Ltd

Peter Cook Centre for CCS Research - Phase 2

$485,000

G.W.Stevens, I.Snape

Australian Antarctic Division Options for the remediation of heavy metal contaminants at two antarctic stations: Wilkes and Davis

$9,000

* Reported figures are actual income received by PFPC researchers in the 2014 calendar year

87

Host Institution (The University of Melbourne)Chief Investigators (PFPC members in bold)

Partner Organisations Grant Type Title UniMelb Funding*

R.A.Caruso Melbourne Researcher Grant Support Scheme

Solution based printable mesostructure solid-state thin film solar cells

$45,000

R.R.Dagastine, C.Tallon

Hallmark Research Initative

Materials Research, Hallmark Initiative $150,000

M.Gee Centre for Cellullar and Molecular Biology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, India

The International Research Research Training Fund

International research network for development of antibiotic peptides

$148,740

M.Gee, X.Zhang, H.Wang

Melbourne Materials Institute - Interdisciplinary Seed Funding Scheme

Graphene thin films with tailored nano-architectures – a new class of antibacterial coating’

$20,000

S.Kolev University of Sofia, Bulgaria

Dyason Fellowship Novel methods for coating metal substrates with gold nanoparticles using polymer inclusion membranes

$4,000

M.Müllner McKenzie Fellowship Cylindrical polymer brush nanoparticles – New one-dimensional nanostructures for Improved drug delivery

$116,013

A.O’Connor Melbourne Materials Institute - Interdisciplinary Seed Funding Scheme

Tissue engineering approaches to meet future food demand

$35,000

G.G.Qiao Peking University; Fudan University; Donghua University; Tianjin University; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Tsinghua University; Nankai University; Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China

The International Research Research Training Fund

Workshop Grant Application $15,000

C.A.Scholes Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France

Dyason Fellowship Developing novel carbon capture technology for climate change mitigation

$4,000

G.W.Stevens Joyce Lambert Antarctic Research Seed Funding Scheme

Development of environmental remediation technologies for Australian Antarctic stations

$75,000

A.D.Stickland Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Japan

2015 Melbourne School of Engineering Visiting Scholar

Inter-particle contact forces: Why they matter in flow of suspensions

$3,000

W.Wallace, E.Wong Melbourne Materials Institute - Interdisciplinary Seed Funding Scheme

Fullerene molecular peapods as organic semiconductors

$11,000

E.Wong Early Career Researcher Grant

Bio-relevant peptide nanocylinders via crystallization-driven self-assembly

$19,598

Y.Yan University College Dublin, Ireland

Dyason Fellowship Systems analysis of endocytic perturbation by nanoparticles

$4,000

X.Zhang Tsinghua University, China

The International Research Research Training Fund

N/A $7,500

* Reported figures are actual income received by PFPC researchers in the 2014 calendar year

88

Other Competitive GrantsChief Investigators (PFPC members in bold)

Administering Institute

Partner Organisations

Funding Body Grant Type Title Sponsor Funding*

F.Caruso, W.J.Parak, S.Carregal-Romero, P.del Pino, K.Liang, J.Maina, M.Ochs, B.Pelaz García, Y.Yan, X.Yu

The University of Melbourne

Philipps-Universität Marburg

Group of Eight Australia-German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)

Joint Research Co-operation Scheme

MAGICAPS: Towards smart drug-delivery systems

$9,500

G.V.Franks The University of Melbourne

CSIRO Novel temperature responsive polymer as a flocculant and collector

$6,490

G.V.Franks, C.Tallon

The University of Melbourne

Defence Materials Technology Centre

Project 7.1.1 Ceramic protective systems

$124,512

S.Gray, M.Duke, J.Zhang, P.J.Scales, V.Pettigrove, M.Allinson

Victoria University

The University of Melbourne

Australian Water Recycle Centre of Excellence; Australian Antarctic Division

Demonstration of robust water recycling

$166,428

R.R.Haese, S.E.Kentish (UniMelb CIs)

CO2CRC The University of Melbourne

Education Investment Fund (EIF)

EIF Support for Clean Energy Research Infrastructure

CCSNet research infrastructure project Carbon Capture and Storage Flagship Program

$2,493,987

S.E.Kentish, B.Abrahams, R.Robson (UniMelb CIs)

University of Sydney, CSIRO, Monash University, The University of Melbourne, University of Adelaide, University of NSW, ANSTO, CO2CRC

Science and Industry Endowment Fund (SIEF)

SIEF Research Grant Scheme

Solving the Energy Waste Roadblock: Addressing one of the foremost challenges for reducing greenhouse gas emissions on a national and international scale, namely, the development of new materials and processes for the capture and utilisation of carbon dioxide

$150,345

S.E.Kentish, C.Scholes, D.Wiley

The University of Melbourne

CO2CRC Australian National Low Emissions Coal Research & Development (ANLEC R&D)

Alternatives and Fundamentals Program

Cost-effective membrane technologies for carbon dioxide capture - Membrane processes for amine contaminant removal

$74,580

S.Kentish, G.W.Stevens, G.Qiao, P.A.Webley (PFPC CIs)

CO2CRC Participants from Australian and global industry, universities and other research bodies from Australia and New Zealand, and Australian Commonwealth, State and international government agencies

Australian Government Cooperative Research Centres Programme, other Federal and State Government programs, CO2CRC participants, and wider industry

Cooperative Research Centre

Cooperative Research Centre for Greenhouse Gas Technologies

$1,327,570

* Reported figures are actual income received by PFPC researchers in the 2014 calendar year

89

Other Competitive GrantsChief Investigators (PFPC members in bold)

Administering Institute

Partner Organisations

Funding Body Grant Type Title Sponsor Funding*

S.Kolev The University of Melbourne

Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO)

Monitoring of saliva for biomarkers of environmental and occupational exposure

$10,000

G.J.Martin, A.K.Sinha, G.W.Stevens, M.O.Garg, V.Haritos, M.Brear, S.R.Wate, A.Subic, N.Burke, P.A.Webley, S.Blackburn

The University of Melbourne

CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), CSIRO, RMIT University

Department of Industry (DoI)

Australia-India Strategic Research Fund (AISRF) Workshop Grant

Bio-jet fuel – A Key to future green and sustainable aviation

$27,720

K.Mumford The University of Melbourne

Ian Potter Foundation

Travel Grant N/A $2,500

K.Mumford, G.W.Stevens, S.Shen

The University of Melbourne

Hebei University of Science and Technology, China

Department of Industry (DoI) administered through Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE)

Australia-China Joint Coordination Group on Clean Coal Technology (JCG) Partnership Fund

Advanced carbonate-based solvents for reducing CO2 emissions from coal-fired power plants in Australia and China

$6,000

A.O’Connor, A.Deva, P.Tran, W.Morrison

The University of Melbourne

O’Brien Institute Defence Health Foundation

Establishment Grant

Material technology to prevent infection to injured soldiers

$49,665

J.Patel, A.Bordoloi, R.Bal, S.Bhargava, N.Burke, S.Dasgupta, P.Mondal, V.Perupogu, P.A.Webley, R.Voolapalli

CSIRO CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), The University of Melbourne, RMIT University

Department of Industry (DoI)

Australia-India Strategic Research Fund (AISRF) Grand Challenge

Mini DME: A custom designed solution to bring stranded gas to the energy markets

$368,000

G.G.Qiao, D.H.Solomon, G.Senior

The University of Melbourne

Participants from Australian and global industry, universities and other research bodies from Australia and New Zealand, and Australian Commonwealth, State and international government agencies

CRC for Polymers Project 2.2 System for controlling the air-water interface and reducing evaporation from water storages

$248,431

K.Smith The University of Melbourne

Ian Potter Foundation

Travel Grant N/A $2,500

* Reported figures are actual income received by PFPC researchers in the 2014 calendar year

90

Other Competitive GrantsChief Investigators (PFPC members in bold)

Administering Institute

Partner Organisations

Funding Body Grant Type Title Sponsor Funding*

G.W.Stevens The University of Melbourne

CO2CRC Brown Coal Innovation Australia (BCIA)

Victorian Government’s Energy Technology Innovation Strategy (ETIS)

CO2CRC’s carbon capture technologies in brown coal fired power plants (CCT-BCFPP) - Capture demonstration for cost reduction

$53,060

G.W.Stevens, D.Gore, K.Mumford (incl $536,020 in kind in 2014)

The University of Melbourne

Macquarie University

Australian Antarctic Division

Australian Antarctic Science (AAS) Grant

Development of contaminant metal removal systems suitable for implementation in cold regions

$22,000

G.W.Stevens, L.Mason, D.Harvie

The University of Melbourne

Technische Universität Kaiserslautern, Germany

Group of Eight Australia-German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)

Joint Research Co-operation Scheme

Modelling and optimisation of industrial liquid–liquid extraction units

$6,700

G.W.Stevens, K.Mumford

The University of Melbourne

CO2CRC Australian National Low Emissions Coal Research & Development (ANLEC R&D)

Alternatives and Fundamentals Program

CO2CRC CCS cost reduction project - Solvent precipitation system

$42,370

G.Such, X.Hao The University of Melbourne

CSIRO Molecular Science

Engineered theranostic nanoparticles

$50,000

A.D.Stickland The University of Melbourne

Department of Environment and Primary Industries

Smart Water Fund

Improving sludge drying pan efficiency using lessons from the minerals processing industry

$146,000

A.D.Stickland, S.Chellappan

The University of Melbourne

Water Research Australia

Postgraduate Scholarship

The implementation of dry stacking operating methods in wastewater treatment evaporation pans

$5,000

C.Tallon, G.V.Franks

The University of Melbourne

US Department of the Air Force

Multi-scale porous ultra high temperature ceramics

$4,831

P.Tran The University of Melbourne

Cass Foundation Ltd

Science and Medicine Grant

Superbullets for superbugs: Toward solutions for antibiotic resistance and bacterial infections

$52,500

P.A.Webley The University of Melbourne

CO2CRC Australian National Low Emissions Coal Research & Development (ANLEC R&D)

Alternatives and Fundamentals Program

Large scale cost reduction through adsorption

$34,980

* Reported figures are actual income received by PFPC researchers in the 2014 calendar year

91

Financial SummarySources of IncomeThe total income to the PFPC in 2014 was over $15 million. This included financial and infrastructure support from The University of Melbourne, including direct funds from the Melbourne School of Engineering, which allowed us to continue as a Centre, support some core activities and leverage on our combined strengths.

Leveraging on the Particulate Fluids Processing CentreThe Centre enables us to bring together a group of exceptional researchers who work together to leverage research funding from many sources. As shown in the graph below our momentum has gathered over the life of the Centre and despite the cessation of ARC Special Research Centre funding at the end of 2008, we now receive approximately $12 million of competitive funding.

92

Research Facilities The Centre has built extensive state-of-the-art research facilities over 18 years of continuous funding from the Australian Research Council’s Special Research Centre scheme. Together with other research funding the Special Research Centre grant enabled the purchase of a range of instrumentation for chemical analysis, rheological characterisation, particle size analysis as well as surface and microscopic analysis.

Microscopy, Particle and Surface Analysis

AcoustoSizer (Colloid Dynamics)Atomic Force Microscopes (Asylum

MPF-3D AFM; Asylum Research Cypher AFM; Digital Instruments Dimension 3100; Digital Instruments Multimode; Nanowisard BioAFM)

Confocal Microscope (Olympus FV500)Confocal Time Correlated Single Photon

Counting Fluorescence Microscope (Leica)

Dynamic Interfacial Tension Measuring Device (FTA)

Dynamic Light Scattering / Photon Correlation Spectrometer (Malvern Autosizer 4700)

Electro-Kinetic Analyzer (Brookhaven Instruments)

EllipsometerFlow Cytometer (Imaging, Amnis; Partec

CyFlow)Fluorescence Microscope Digital

Widefield (Olympus IX71)Gravimetric Sorption Analyser (High

Pressure; VTI)Inverted Microscope (Motic AE20)Inverted Microscope with CCD Digital

Camera and Image Processing Software Malvern Mastersizer 2000Microtester (Instron 5848)Particle Sizer (High Performance DLS,

Malvern; Micromeritics Elzone 5380)Surface Area and Porosity Analyser (Tristar

and ASAP 2010, Micrometics)Surface Force Apparatus Tensiometer (DataPhysics OCA20)Xray Diffractometry (XRD)Zetasizer (Malvern 2000)

Spectroscopic Analysis Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS)Fluoresence Spectrophotometer

(Fluorolog; Horiba)Fourier Transform-IR Spectrometer

(Varian 7000)Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical

Emission Spectrometer (Varian 720-ES)OWLS 210 (Optical Waveguide Lightmode

Spectroscope)Spectrophotometer (Nanodrop 1000)Stopped-Flow Spectrometer (Applied

Photophysics)Surface Plasmon Resonance Spectrometer UV-Visible Spectrophotometers (various)

Thermal AnalysisDifferential Scanning Calorimeter (Perkin

Elmer)Thermogravimetric Analyser (Mettler

Toledo)Thermogravimetry/Differential Thermal

Analysis (Perkin Elmer)Thermomechanical Analysis (Perkin Elmer)

RheometryIntrinsic Viscometer (Schott ViscoDoser

AVS 20)Rheometer (Capillary; Custom Made)Rheometer (Controlled Stress; AR-G2)Rheometer (Controlled Stress; SR5)Rheometeter (Controlled Strain; HAAKE)

General3D Printer (Objet Eden 260 V)Centrifuges (various)Chamber Furnaces (Shimaden FP21 and

FP 93 controller)Compressive Strength Testing Instrument

(ELE Universal Tester)Freeze Dryers (Dynavac FD5 and Heto

Drywinner)Gel Documentation System (BioRad)High Performance Liquid Chromatograph

(Shimadzu LC-10AT)Incubators (various)Ion Chromatograph (Dionex)Quartz Crystal Microbalance (Frequency

and Q-sense)Real Time PCR Cycler (BioRad Mini

Option)Robotic Dipper (Stratosequence VI )

Contact DetailsProfessor Geoff Stevens, Director

Particulate Fluids Processing CentreDepartment of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

The University of MelbourneVictoria 3010 Australia

Tel: 61 3 8344 6621Fax: 61 3 8344 8824

Email: gstevens@unimelb.edu.au

www.pfpc.unimelb.edu.au

www.pfpc.unimelb.edu.au