Our research
At the SMaRT Research Group, our work is driven by the mission to engineer sustainable materials and technologies that address global challenges in water, energy, environment, and manufacturing. Our research spans fundamental studies of surface phenomena to applied system design, unified under five interlinked thematic pillars:
Our Research
At the SMaRT Research Group, our work is driven by the mission to engineer sustainable materials and technologies that address global challenges in water, energy, environment, and manufacturing. Our research spans fundamental studies of surface phenomena to applied system design, unified under five interlinked thematic pillars:
1. Surface Modification and Interfacial Engineering
We investigate how surface properties—such as roughness, wettability, and porosity—govern interfacial transport during phase changes, including boiling, condensation, and evaporation. By tailoring micro- and nano-scale features, we design advanced coatings and textured surfaces that enhance heat and mass transfer efficiency.
Recent efforts include solar-driven interfacial evaporation (SDIE) for sustainable desalination, the design of biphilic and SLIPS surfaces for efficient condensation, and microstructured boiling surfaces for high-performance thermal management in energy and water systems.
2. Textile Engineering and Circular Economy
We explore novel routes for the valorisation of textile waste and for closed-loop manufacturing. This includes converting post-consumer textiles into 3D-printing filaments, producing bacterial cellulose nanofibres via electrospinning, and characterising recycled materials for sustainable design. Our research supports a circular textile ecosystem through advanced characterisation, tribological testing, and AI-assisted sorting of waste materials.
3. Transport Processes
We study solid–liquid and liquid–vapour interfaces, multi-phase flow, and coupled transport mechanisms that underpin water purification, heat exchange, and phase-change systems. Using experimental and computational methods, our team develops next-generation materials and devices for energy recovery, thermal regulation, and environmental protection.
4. Tribology and Mechanics
Our group leads research in friction, wear, lubrication, and contact mechanics across a wide range of applications, from gears and mechanical systems to biomedical implants and lubricated interfaces in engines and fuels. We investigate how surface engineering, material selection, and lubricant formulation influence durability, efficiency, and performance under real-world operating conditions. Our work combines experimental tribology with advanced modelling and material characterisation to optimise gear tribology, improve the biocompatibility and wear resistance of biomedical components, and enhance lubricant and fuel performance for cleaner, more efficient energy systems.
5. Additive Manufacturing and Sustainable Design
We leverage 3D printing, biomimetic design, and recycled polymers to create functional and sustainable components. Research includes nature-inspired 3D-printed textiles, recycled polymer gears, and smart manufacturing systems integrating sensing, AI, and automated waste sorting. These efforts contribute to reducing material waste and advancing energy-efficient production systems.