BU Research Blog

Category / General Engineering

April 9, 2024

Article Processing Charges

BRIAN, BU research, Impact, open accecss, Publishing, the conversation Zulfiqar Khan

Keywords: APC, Open access, REF, Repositories, Journals, Outputs.

APC and subscription-based models have their specific yet intersecting merits. Here in the UK, several aspects of publications have been repositioned during the last REF2021 census period. Lord Stern review led to several key changes, especially in terms of reporting research. Although the costs of APCs are high, HEIs have ringfenced QR funding to support outputs in quartile two and above through an internal review process. Similarly, publishers have institutional partnerships where partial or full waivers are offered. Several reputable publishers have introduced incentives to waive or partially waive APCs, for example, by contributing to the review process, participating as editors, and recommending high-quality manuscripts in terms of originality, significance, and academic depth.

APC route, for example, Creative Commons CC BY, offers many benefits to researchers, academics, and especially early career researchers in terms of flexibility of literature use as compared to traditional publication processes, such as the complexity and costs associated with permission to use or reuse infographics, including authors’ own results and images where copyright transfer has occurred. On the other hand, APCs provide an opportunity for wider availability of research to be read, used, and applied within research contexts where funding for subscription-based models is not generous or sometimes limited. Making preprint peer-reviewed and accepted author version manuscripts available on institutional repositories is a better alternative to APCs.

Traditional and legacy practices could benefit from dialogue and consideration; publishers’ subscription models could be diversified for greater inclusivity by offering variations in subscription fees based on certain metrics such as a country’s GDP or RPI. Revenues generated from both subscription and APCs should be more transparent, with figures available to public and open to stakeholders feedback. Profits should be reinvested in discounted subscription fees for HEIs, funding research through RC UK initiatives and similar programmes, and supporting early and mid-career researchers.

Another aspect which is not usually discussed is that traditionally, journals editorial teams, especially editors and chief editors, serve in their roles for prolonged periods. Although unintended, this inadvertently limits opportunities for diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for a diverse community of researchers worldwide. New thinking is needed to change the structure of publishers’ journal editorial teams to meet twenty-first-century needs. Some initial measures could include: (i) open calls for expressions of interest in editorial team roles, including editors and chief editors, (ii) transparent recruitment based on person specifications, and (iii) a maximum two-year tenure in the role. Subscription fees and APC revenue, combined with alternative grants from research councils and charities, could be used to incentivise engagement with the publishing process, from editorial board participation to contributing to the review process.

Zulfiqar A Khan
Professor of Design, Engineering & Computing
NanoCorr, Energy & Modelling (NCEM) Research Group Lead
Email: zkhan@bournemouth.ac.uk

October 20, 2023

Research collaboration with The Tank Museum

BU research, BU2025, Events, Featured, Impact, Industry collaboration, innovation, Knowledge Exchange, Knowledge Exchange and Impact Team, Postgraduate Research, Public engagement, Research assessment Zulfiqar Khan

Over the past fifteen years, we have cultivated and nurtured a robust and enduring research partnership with The Tank Museum. This extensive collaboration has borne fruit through a series of successful projects, undertaken in conjunction with both The Tank Museum and the Ministry of Defence UK. One of the standout outcomes of our cooperative efforts with The Tank Museum was the pivotal role it played in the creation of the REF2021 BU UoA12 Impact Case Study. Throughout this period, our collaborative research has not only thrived but has also made substantial contributions to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between BU and industry, primarily in the realm of Design Engineering education.

The end of a significant chapter in our long-standing collaboration was marked by a farewell luncheon in honour of The Tank Museum’s Director, Richard Smith OBE. Richard Smith will be embarking on a new venture within another esteemed organisation. While this may signify the conclusion of an era, it is unequivocal that our commitment to fostering and fortifying our alliance with both The Tank Museum and Richard’s new organisation will remain unwavering.

With deep respect and gratitude, Professor Khan and his distinguished team, comprising Dr. Adil Saeed, Dr. Hammad Nazir, Professor Keith Stokes, and Dr. Jawad Latif, extend their heartfelt best wishes to Richard Smith OBE. Simultaneously, they extend a warm and anticipatory welcome to the incoming Director of The Tank Museum, as we collectively embark on new horizons of research and education in the days to come.

October 20, 2023

Prestigious research exchange award

Awarded & submitted bids, BU research, BU2025, Featured, Featured academics, Global engagement, Impact, innovation, international, Publishing, Research news Zulfiqar Khan

Professor Khan has been recently awarded prestigious research exchange funding by Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. Tsinghua University ranks 1^s^t in Asia and 12^th World Ranking and 9^th World Reputation. The collaboration between Professor Khan and Professor Yonggang Meng of Tsinghua University has been in place since 2009-2010 and has resulted in multiple exchange visits and academic achievements. Building on his ongoing collaborative research with Tsinghua University, which is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of PR China and Global Visiting Fellowship Award from Bournemouth University, has led another output which has been accepted for publication in Tribology Letters, a solid quartile one journal in mechanical engineering. This recent collaborative work offers valuable insights into the mechanisms of achieving super low friction in liquid-lubricated sliding point contacts. Its potential applications in various industries and contributions to academic understanding make it a significant endeavour with far-reaching impacts.

The central question being explored by Professors Khan and Meng, along with their research teams, is the key to achieving super low friction in water-based ultralow or super low friction experiments. This question carries significant importance for both academia and industry.

In academia, understanding the factors that influence super low friction can advance our knowledge of friction reduction mechanisms. This research contributes to the academic understanding of this critical field and can serve as a foundation for further investigations.

In the industrial context, the impacts are substantial. Achieving super low friction has the potential to improve the efficiency of mechanical components and reduce energy consumption in various industries. This knowledge will lead to the development of more efficient machinery and systems, saving resources and costs for industries.

September 30, 2023

The Evolving Landscape and Future Prospects of Mechanical Engineering Education in the UK

BU2025, Centre for Excellence in Learning, Fusion, Fusion themes, Impact, Industry collaboration, innovation Zulfiqar Khan

Mechanical engineering education in the United Kingdom has undergone significant transformation in recent years to meet evolving societal needs and strategic priorities. As the educational landscape adapts, mechanical engineering programs have emerged as catalysts for innovation, sustainability, and societal advancement.

The UK has a rich heritage of engineering achievements, making engineering education an intrinsic part of the nation’s academic fabric. Traditionally, mechanical engineering has been at the forefront of this endeavour, contributing to the country’s industrial prowess. Today, this legacy continues, with mechanical engineering playing a pivotal role in shaping the future.

Mechanical engineering education in the UK is intimately connected to national priorities:

Energy Sustainability: The global concern for energy sustainability is reflected in the curriculum. Mechanical engineering programs focus on energy technology development, equipping students to address pressing issues in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable power generation.

Health-Related Technologies: Mechanical engineers are at the forefront of healthcare innovation. They contribute to the development of health-related technologies, such as medical devices and healthcare robotics, bridging the gap between engineering and medicine to improve patient care.

Longevity of Structures: Ensuring the longevity of critical structures and infrastructures is paramount. Mechanical engineers learn to design and maintain durable and resilient structures, contributing to economic stability and public safety.

Wider Sustainability Context: Mechanical engineering education has broadened to encompass sustainability principles. Graduates are well-versed in sustainable design, circular economy concepts, and eco-friendly manufacturing processes, addressing sustainability challenges effectively.

In a pioneering move, Professor Zulfiqar Khan worked closely with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on their accredited Further Learning Programme (FLP). He assumed the role of scheme coordinator and integrated Bournemouth University’s existing educational and enterprise provisions into the IMechE FLP. This collaboration achieved IMechE accreditation in July 2011 as a Further Learning Programme, marking a significant milestone for academic year 2012-13. This was a historic achievement as it marked the first IMechE accredited program in an English Higher Education Institution (HEI).

Recognising the need for lifelong learning and professional development in engineering, Professor Khan championed the creation of a flexible learning degree tailored for industry professionals. This innovative program allows working engineers to obtain academic qualifications while continuing their careers. It enables industry professionals to achieve academic qualifications required for professional recognition as incorporated or chartered engineers, further contributing to the engineering workforce’s expertise and professionalism.

Building on the success of the IMechE FLP accreditation, Professor Khan played a pivotal role in establishing a successful mechanical engineering course at Bournemouth University. This course, with its industry-relevant curriculum and strong ties to the IMechE, quickly gained recognition and attracted students enthusiastic about pursuing careers in mechanical engineering.

Central to the success of these programs is the fusion of research-informed education with a strong industry and professional interface. By aligning educational provisions with the latest research and industry needs, students benefit from a dynamic learning experience that is both academically rigorous and practical. This approach enhances their employability, as graduates are well-prepared to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Moreover, research-informed education underpinned by industry applications also yields significant societal impacts. Graduates are equipped to address environmental challenges through sustainable design practices, contribute to social well-being through healthcare innovations, and drive economic growth by applying their skills in industry sectors.

Professor Zulfiqar Khan’s impact extended beyond the classroom and curriculum. He used the successful accreditation of the IMechE FLP program as evidence to support the repositioning of Research Excellence Framework (REF) Unit of Assessment 15 to UoA 12. This strategic move was initiated well before the launch of the Lord Stern review of the REF in 2015. It sought to ensure that research in mechanical engineering received appropriate recognition and support within the REF framework.

The Lord Stern Review of the REF was officially launched in 2015, led by Lord Nicholas Stern. Its objective was to assess the role and operation of the REF and make recommendations for the future, including how research excellence and impact are evaluated, funded, and rewarded.

Professor Zulfiqar Khan’s contributions to mechanical engineering education in the UK extend beyond the classroom. His vision, dedication, and collaboration with industry and professional bodies have not only led to the establishment of successful academic programmes but have also influenced the strategic positioning of research in mechanical engineering within the REF framework. As mechanical engineering continues to evolve, such contributions are pivotal in shaping its future impact and significance, fostering a dynamic and impactful fusion of education, research, and industry interface.

Acknowledgment. This article is researched, produced and written in collaboration with GAI.

September 22, 2023

Forecasting UK Carbon Emissions: The Next 5 to 10 Years

BU research, Featured, Global engagement, Impact, Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology, Public engagement, REF Subjects, the conversation Zulfiqar Khan

The UK Prime Minister’s recent decision to delay the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars until 2035 has brought into focus the trajectory of carbon emissions in the country. In this article, we will analyse available data, current trends, and sectoral dynamics to make an informed forecast of UK carbon emissions for the next 5 to 10 years.

In 2022, the UK saw a 2.4% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to 2021, and total greenhouse gas emissions decreased by 2.2%. These figures indicate progress towards the nation’s climate goals.

Quarterly emissions data for 2022 showed varying trends, with transport emissions surging by 23.2% in Q1 but overall reductions in subsequent quarters.

The transport sector, particularly road transport, played a significant role in emissions trends, accounting for 34.0% of territorial CO2 emissions in 2022.

Historically, emissions from the transport sector had shown a pattern of growth until 2019, driven by factors like increased vehicle kilometres travelled and improved vehicle fuel efficiency.

While making precise forecasts is challenging, we can make informed projections based on the data and trends available:

Transport Sector: Given the recent surge in transport emissions in Q1 2022, it is likely that this sector will remain a critical focus in the coming years. To make accurate predictions, factors such as the adoption of electric vehicles, investment in public transportation, and government policies will need to be considered. An optimistic scenario sees a gradual decrease in emissions due to EV adoption and policy interventions. However, without robust measures, emissions may remain volatile.

Residential Sector: The residential sector’s emissions were sensitive to temperature variations in 2022. If temperature trends continue, emissions could remain stable. However, long-term reductions will depend on energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy adoption in homes.

Energy Supply and Public Sectors: These sectors experienced increases in emissions in Q2 2022. Ensuring a transition to cleaner energy sources and promoting energy conservation will be crucial in mitigating emissions from these sectors.

Quarterly Fluctuations: Seasonal fluctuations are expected to continue, with milder weather reducing heating demands and contributing to lower emissions in certain quarters.

Long-Term Goals: The UK’s ambitious net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050 will continue to drive policy changes, investment in green technologies, and efforts to reduce emissions across all sectors.

Forecasted Trends (2023-2032):

Drawing from the available data and our analysis, we can outline the following forecasted trends for UK carbon emissions in the next 5 to 10 years:

Transport Sector: While fluctuations may persist, increased adoption of electric vehicles and stricter emissions regulations are expected to gradually reduce emissions. A targeted effort to improve public transportation infrastructure will also play a role.

Residential Sector: Emissions in this sector are likely to remain stable, with variations influenced by weather patterns. Continued incentives for energy-efficient homes and renewable energy sources will support long-term reductions.

Energy Supply and Public Sectors: Policy emphasis on clean energy and conservation measures should gradually decrease emissions in these sectors.

Quarterly Fluctuations: Seasonal variations will persist, but temperature-adjusted data may reveal more consistent trends.

Forecasting carbon emissions for the next 5 to 10 years is a complex endeavour, contingent upon multifaceted factors. The UK’s journey toward a greener future hinges on government policies, technological advancements, and economic conditions. Sustainable reductions in emissions demand continued dedication, particularly in the transport sector, and significant investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and public transportation.

The path to a lower-carbon future for the UK will be determined by its ability to harmonize economic growth with environmental stewardship.

Note: This forecast is based on available data and trends, offering a general projection subject to modification in response to evolving circumstances and policies.

For any questions, comments and or discussions please contact Professor Zulfiqar Khan.

Acknowledgment. This article is researched, produced and written in collaboration with GAI.

September 8, 2023

Emerging Leaders in Drowning Prevention: BU PhD student Shafkat Hossain

Awarded & submitted bids, BU research, conferences, Global engagement, international, PG research, Postgraduate Research, Training, Uncategorized Edwin van Teijlingen

Congratulations to BU’s PhD student Mr. Md. Shafkat Hossain who has been selected by Bloomberg Philanthropies as one of the Emerging Leaders in Drowning Prevention programme. This programme has been designed to create a cohort of younger leaders to join national and international efforts to raise awareness and strengthen solutions and political commitment towards drowning. This programme is hosted by the Global Health Advocacy Incubator and provides a unique opportunity for people like Shafkat to develop leadership skills in drowning prevention, and be a part of a global community working to reduce drowning deaths. This first group of Emerging Leaders includes people from Bangladesh, Ghana, India, Uganda, United States and Vietnam. Each Emerging Leader will be expected to participate in monthly sessions, both online and in person. The programme includes funding for Shafkat to attend the World Conference on Drowning Prevention in Perth, Australia in December 2023 (wcdp2023.com/) and the World Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion in Delhi, India in September 2024 (worldsafety2024.com/).

Shafkat’s PhD research focuses on aspects of the Human-Centred-Design element of the Sonamoni project. Bournemouth University and the Centre for Injury Prevention and Research, Bangladesh (CIPRB) jointly lead research into the prevention of children drowning deaths in Bangladesh. The project, called ‘Sonamoni’, is being coordinated by BU in collaboration with the University of the West of England, Bristol, the University of Southampton, and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). We are working with CIPRB to reduce drownings among newly-mobile children, generally under two years old. This £1.6m project has been made possible thanks to a grant from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) through their Research and Innovation for Global Health Transformation programme. For more information, visit the NIHR website.

Prof. Edwin van Teijlingen

CMWH

September 7, 2023

Time for Something New?

BU research, ECR Network, ESRC, Funding opportunities, Fusion, Global engagement, HEIF, Impact, innovation, international, Knowledge Exchange, Knowledge Exchange and Impact Team, Knowledge Transfer, PG research, Postgraduate Research, R & KE Operations, REF Subjects, Research Centres, Research communication, research integrity, research opportunities, Uncategorized wmorrison

Front image of The Diamond Sutra manuscript

The Diamond Sutra manuscript from Mogao Caves

It’s been a couple of months since I started in my new role as Knowledge Exchange Manager at BU and while I’ve been getting to know people and how things work, I’ve also been reflecting on something which has come up a lot – innovation. It’s something I’ve had a wonderful opportunity to work with across my career in the Higher Education sector and in Whitehall, and innovation is also important in my ongoing my research. Some people might think this is surprising considering my research focus is the Ancient Silk Road… however the ‘Library Cave’ in the Taklamakan Desert of Dunhuang, NW China (where my research is based) contained the first known, dated, (11th May, AD 868), printed book in the world – the Diamond Sutra – which tells you all you need to know!

Virtual books: images only – The Diamond Sutra: Introduction (bl.uk)

This academic year, as well as having the pleasure of working across all faculties, with a range of academics to enhance research knowledge exchange culture, capabilities and capacity, I am joining Professor Lee Miles and Assoc. Professor Elvira Bolat on the Knowledge Exchange Innovation Funding Panel (starting in September). Further details are to follow, so keep an eye on the Research Blog for announcements…

The way I see it, Bournemouth University has something unique to offer the world of Higher Education. How it has developed as an institution, has meant that is has a particularly creative, exploratory and applied perspective. This means that as an academic community we have the potentiality – the various elements which can be brought together – to generate some real innovation. So what exactly do I mean by innovation…what does it mean to me?

Innovation is one of those words that gets bandied about in Higher Education and in Government, but its meaning has almost become an anathema – it’s lost its true essence and joined the ranks of other words co-opted by frameworks and means of measuring, such as ‘impact’ and ‘evaluation’, to become something often considered as arduous ‘add-ons’ to research. But to me, innovation is not just doing something a little bit different to the way it’s usually done and trying to make it sound special. Innovation is something truly new.

So does this make it harder to do innovation in our research? Because in reality, we could choose not to innovate. We could just do things the way they have always been done; stay nice and safe without taking any calculated risks, not challenge the status quo and forget about the creative, lively, curious, experimental, exploratory, and adventurous parts of our minds, hearts and lives.

Universities exist because of all these aspects of who we are. They are places to not only meditate on the great questions in our hearts and minds about the world we live in, what it is to be human, and how to go beyond limitations, but also to have the space to play, explore, discuss and put our answers to the test. In other words we have the opportunity to really see things anew, the way they have never been thought of, seen or done before, even when it feels both risky, and exciting. Innovation is the juice that drives us as researchers.

So where is she going with this? I hear you say…

Well, doing things differently is a risk worth taking, because the result, if it is successful, could make a real difference. The important factor in my mind is to remember that research is the foundation, and the checks and measures are only a means of sharing them to benefit the institution as a whole – which means sustainability for our research going forward and recognition of our work and efforts to make a difference in the world. Innovation in research helps to create the structure of Higher Education, it offers us the space to explore, muse, and collaborate with others who are as passionate about research and discovery as we are, inside, and outside of the University.

However, when doing research and deciding it’s time to bring our innovative ideas, materials, development, technology, way of seeing the world, interpretation, or story, to the light

Wild Rhododendrons in Kashmir – by Major Edward Molyneux

of day, taking a moment to reflect is important. It is human nature that people may think of similar answers or solutions to certain problems. It’s important to check that an idea really is innovative. To ask if it truly is new, and not just a little different from something someone else has done somewhere else in the UK, or in the world. It’s less common than you might think that two people can come up with the same entirely new and brilliant idea at the same time. Look at Charles Darwin and Alfred Russell Wallace – and if you want to take an actual look at the co-emergent development of the theory of natural selection by these two biologists, here’s a link to a discussion from Berkley, University of California.

Natural Selection: Charles Darwin & Alfred Russel Wallace – Understanding Evolution (berkeley.edu)

Innovation is brought to life by us and the research that inspires us. Once we have generated a research outcome that is new, publish, take on a proof-of-concept opportunity, trial or pilot it…all of these options offer a chance for us to check, tweak, discover something we weren’t expecting, or prove to ourselves that we’ve got something truly innovative to share with the world.

As well as my Knowledge Exchange role, I keeping going with my research as a Visiting Research Fellow at BU – and with a young family I’m not saying it doesn’t have its challenges – but researchers do what we do because we love it. We are passionate about our subject, our questions and what we can do to bring new knowledge and ideas into being through our work, and to share and exchange this. Even when hitting an inspiration slump, something, somehow, always lights the fire again, and again, and again…even when we fail. No failure, no learning, and no learning, nothing new.

https://dorsetchamber.co.uk/bournemouth-university-ranked-in-top-7-of-universities-globally-in-times-higher-education-the-impact-rankings/

At BU we have an opportunity to bring our innovative research to life – so whether you’ve got something you’ve come up with from your research that is ready to roll, or you’ve got the seed of something creative, exploratory or ‘not quite formed or acceptable because it doesn’t follow the rules, but you always felt it might be completely awesome‘, that’s been hidden away in the bottom drawer of your mind while you get on with the ‘real work’ – stop ignoring it and come and have a chat with me in the Fusion Café, you can usually find me working there on a Monday; or drop a message in my inbox or Teams chat.

Dr. Wendelin Morrison – wsmorrison@bournemouth.ac.uk

Links to give context and inspiration for Innovation:

A UKRI template for a brilliant approach to creating powerful Research Resumes, rather than the traditional CV, which evidences a wider range of skills and experience for individuals and teams for applying for UKRI funding opportunities:

Résumé for Research and Innovation (R4RI) guidance – UKRI

UKRI-210223-ResumeResearchInnovationTemplate2023.docx (live.com)

Industry and Innovation at the Royal Society, Supporting innovation, promoting collaboration and recognising innovative scientists, including some case studies: Industry and innovation | Royal Society

An interesting post on the ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution’ from the World Economic Forum ‘Why the Arts and Humanities are Crucial to the Future of Tec’; inspiring us to collaborative insight and research:

Why the arts and humanities are key to the future of tech | World Economic Forum (weforum.org)
…and a useful reference on innovation in the arts from a developing research funding proposals perspective:
Innovation in the Arts: Concepts, Theories, and Practices – 1st Editio (routledge.com)

Back to basics with the R&D People and Culture Strategy from Whitehall, take a look for things you don’t expect, like information on public dialogue, community-led research and innovations, research leadership and talent: R&D People and Culture Strategy (publishing.service.gov.uk)

And if you are interested in funding social innovation like Climate Resilience or Equality research, have you seen the Global Innovation Fund? There are calls for bids and consultancy calls advertised in their News section. Worth a look even for the brilliant dancing on the current home-page!:

Global Innovation Fund | Improving lives through social innovation

…and if going global with your research is new for you, you can always discuss your ideas and questions with the BU Global Engagement Team GlobalBU@bournemouth.ac.uk.

September 3, 2023

Revolutionising Industries: The Significance, Impacts, and Reliability of Nanocoatings

BU research, BU2025, Impact, Info Days, innovation, research opportunities, the conversation, writing Zulfiqar Khan

Introduction:

Nanocomposite coatings, a ground-breaking development in materials science, have emerged as a transformative force across various industries. These coatings, with their unique properties and applications, hold immense promise for enhancing performance, reducing maintenance costs, and addressing critical global challenges. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the key significance of nanocoatings in a range of industries, their substantial impacts, and their reliability [1–4]. Furthermore, we explore how Professor Zulfiqar Khan is collaborating with generative AI and predict the potential benefits of this partnership for industry and contributions to new knowledge. This narrative aims to influence UK science and technology policy, attract funding, and foster new partnerships to drive innovation and competitiveness.

The Multifaceted Significance of Nanocoatings:

Nanocoatings in Cavitation and Beyond:

Nanocomposite coatings have brought transformative advantages to industries grappling with issues such as cavitation, corrosion, tribology, and fluid dynamics. They provide enhanced protection and resilience in the face of harsh operational conditions, including extreme temperatures, high pressures, corrosive environments, and minimal lubrication. The significance of nanocoatings lies in their ability to extend the lifespan and reliability of vital components and systems across multiple sectors.

Nanocoatings Addressing Global Challenges:

Industries today are confronted with pressing global challenges, such as energy efficiency, sustainability, and system durability. Nanocoatings offer innovative solutions to these challenges by optimising surfaces and interfaces through surface modifications and coatings. They play a pivotal role in enhancing energy efficiency, ensuring the reliability of systems, and promoting sustainability. These benefits are invaluable in the context of UK science and technology policy, which emphasises the transition to greener technologies and sustainable practices.

The Impact of Nanocoatings:

Academic and Industrial Benefits:

The development and application of nanocoatings have not only enriched academic research but have also provided tangible industrial advantages. Researchers worldwide are actively engaged in studying several types of nanocomposites to create durable and energy-efficient coatings. This collaboration between academia and industry fosters innovation, encourages knowledge exchange, and accelerates the adoption of innovative technologies. It aligns with the UK’s vision of becoming a leader in innovation and technology development.

Experimental Advancements:

Professor Khan’s work exemplifies the impact of nanocoatings on the industry. His experiments with alumina, silicon carbide, zirconia, and graphene nanocomposite coatings have displayed their robustness under different conditions, including exposure to seawater. Such empirical evidence guides industry practitioners in selecting the right coatings for their specific applications, reducing maintenance costs, and ensuring system reliability.

III. Reliability of Nanocoatings:

Advanced Modelling and Predictive Tools:

One key aspect of nanocoatings’ reliability lies in the advanced modelling and predictive tools developed by researchers like Professor Khan. His cathodic blistering model (Khan-Nazir I) [5] and coating failure model (Khan-Nazir II) [6] offer a deeper understanding of coating behaviour under stress, wear, and corrosion. These models enable precise predictions of coating performance, which is crucial for industries seeking dependable solutions.

Lubrication Modelling:

Furthermore, lubrication modelling, which incorporates wear-corrosion and mechano-wear equations, investigates the influence of microstructural properties like porosity and surface stresses on the coefficient of friction (CoF). This is vital in ensuring the reliability of systems operating under various conditions, as reduced friction leads to increased durability.

Collaboration with Generative AI:

Harnessing AI for Materials Discovery:

Professor Zulfiqar Khan’s collaboration with generative AI represents an exciting frontier in materials science. Generative AI can accelerate materials discovery by simulating and predicting the behaviour of nanocomposite coatings with unmatched speed and accuracy. By leveraging AI, researchers can design coatings tailored to specific industry needs, further enhancing their reliability and performance.

Predicted Benefits and Contributions:

Industry Advancements:

The partnership between Professor Khan and generative AI holds the promise of revolutionising industries. Predictive modelling and AI-driven materials discovery will enable the creation of coatings that are not only more reliable but also more cost-effective to produce. This will stimulate innovation, reduce downtime, and boost competitiveness across sectors such as aerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing.

Contribution to New Knowledge:

The collaboration will undoubtedly contribute to new knowledge in materials science, computational modelling, and AI-driven materials discovery. This research can inform policy decisions and attract funding for initiatives aimed at harnessing AI for materials development. As the UK government seeks to position the nation as a global innovation hub, investments in cutting-edge research of this nature will be pivotal.

Influencing UK Science & Technology Policy:

Nurturing Technological Leadership:

To influence UK science and technology policy, it is imperative to underscore the role of nanocoatings and AI-driven materials discovery in nurturing technological leadership. Emphasising the potential economic and environmental benefits of these innovations can encourage policymakers to prioritise investments in research and development.

Supporting Sustainable Practices:

Aligning nanocoatings with the UK’s sustainability goals is crucial. Highlighting how these coatings enhance the sustainability and reliability of systems can resonate with policymakers keen on promoting sustainable practices and technologies.

VII. Forging Partnerships:

It is essential to articulate the transformative impact of nanocoatings and AI collaborations on industry and the potential for significant contributions to knowledge. Presenting a clear roadmap for how investments will yield tangible results can attract the attention of funding bodies interested in fostering innovation.

Industry-Academia Synergy:

Lastly, forging partnerships between academia and industry is fundamental. Collaborations that integrate academic research with industry needs can ensure that innovations like nanocoatings find practical applications and drive economic growth.

In conclusion, nanocomposite coatings represent a pivotal advancement with far-reaching significance and impacts across industries. Professor Zulfiqar Khan’s collaboration with generative AI holds immense promise for further enhancing their reliability and performance. This partnership aligns with UK science and technology policy objectives, attracting funding and fostering collaborations that will drive innovation and competitiveness, positioning the UK as a global leader in materials science and technology.

Acknowledgement: This article is written in collaboration with GAI.

References

[1] Nazir, M.H.; Khan, Z.A.; Saeed; Bakolas, V.; Braun,W.; Bajwa, R. Experimental analysis and modelling for reciprocating wear behaviour of nanocomposite coatings. Wear 2018, 416, 89–102. [CrossRef]

[2] Nazir, M.H.; Khan, Z.A.; Saeed, A.; Siddaiah, A.; Menezes, P.L. Synergistic wear-corrosion analysis and modelling of nano composite coatings. Tribol. Int. 2018, 121, 30–44. [CrossRef]

[3] Abdeen, D.H.; El Hachach, M.; Koc, M.; Atieh, M.A. A Review on the Corrosion Behaviour of Nanocoatings on Metallic Substrates. Materials 2019, 12, 210. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

[4] Nazir, M.H.; Khan, Z.A.; Saeed, A.; Bakolas, V.; Braun,W.; Bajwa, R.; Rafique, S. Analyzing and Modelling the Corrosion Behavior of Ni/Al2O3, Ni/SiC, Ni/ZrO2 and Ni/Graphene Nanocomposite Coatings. Materials 2017, 10, 1225. [CrossRef]

[5] Nazir, M.H.; Khan, Z.A.; Saeed, A.; Stokes, K. A model for cathodic blister growth in coating degradation using mesomechanics approach. Mater. Corros. 2016, 67, 495–503. [CrossRef]

[6] Nazir, M.H.; Khan, Z.A. A review of theoretical analysis techniques for cracking and corrosive degradation of film-substrate systems. Eng. Fail. Anal. 2017, 72, 80–113. [CrossRef]

August 31, 2023

UK’s Carbon Emissions Progress

BU research, BU2025, Impact, innovation, international Zulfiqar Khan

UK’s Carbon Emissions Progress

UK’s Carbon Emissions Progress [stock image]

Advancing Towards a Sustainable Future: Evaluating the UK’s Carbon Emissions Progress and Energy Portfolio

Introduction:

Professor Zulfiqar Khan has been working in Energy Capture, Conversion and Storage for more than a decade which has led to significant outcomes for UK industry in terms of technological innovations to meet UK net zero targets and UNSDGs by agreed deadline.

In addition, energy efficiency in interacting systems and complex machines have been at the heart of Professor Khan’s research at BU. Machines and interacting systems use lubrication and therefore sustainability context is key to be taken forward into design considerations. Both the above themes have provided a platform for interdisciplinary research in collaboration with major UK and International Industry and HEIs partners.

Professor Khan has been collaborating with Generative AI in terms of clean energy and future goals to reduce our dependency on non-renewable energy technologies. Although, unlike his longstanding industry collaboration, his GAI partnership is in its initial stages, Professor Khan believes that there are opportunities to drive clean energy research forward to realise UK targets and UNSDGs in collaboration with GAI.

The United Kingdom has embarked on a transformative journey towards sustainable energy solutions, marked by its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This article presents a comprehensive overview of the UK’s current state of progress in carbon emissions reduction, its contributions to the UNSDGs, and the intricate details of its energy portfolio. The following brief article is written in collaboration with Generative AI.

Progress in Carbon Emissions Reduction:

Carbon Emissions Reduction Targets:

The UK’s resolute commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2050.

Noteworthy reduction of carbon emissions by 51% since 1990 levels by the year 2019.

Renewable Energy Sources:

A remarkable 48% of electricity generated from renewable sources in 2020. Continuous expansion of wind and solar energy capacity.

Energy Efficiency:

Implementing energy-efficient measures in both industrial sectors and households.

Contributions to UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7):

The UK’s renewable energy sector has generated over 100 TWh of electricity, making a significant contribution to SDG 7.

Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9):

Substantial investments exceeding £2.5 billion have been directed towards innovative energy capture and storage technologies, fostering economic growth while minimizing environmental impact.

Climate Action (SDG 13):

The UK’s remarkable carbon emissions reduction of 51% surpasses the SDG 13 target to combat climate change.

Challenges and Areas for Improvement:

Transportation Sector:

Electrification and the promotion of alternative fuels remain pivotal for addressing emissions in the transportation sector.

Energy Storage:

Enhancing energy storage solutions is imperative to address the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources effectively.

Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) Technologies:

The development and integration of CCUS technologies for heavy industries are crucial for reducing carbon emissions further and aligning with climate goals.

The UK’s Energy Portfolio (2020):

Energy Type/Technology	Energy Output (TWh)	Energy Consumption (TWh)
Natural Gas	338.6	465.3
Oil	143.8	231.5
Coal	2.3	9.1
Nuclear	55.9	61.8
Renewables (Total)	132.3	283.1
Imports	7.4	N/A (included in total)

Market Share (2020):

Natural Gas: 38.5%

Oil: 16.4%

Coal: 0.3%

Nuclear: 7.9%Renewables (Total): 18.7%Imports: 3.6%

Interpretation:

Non-renewable sources still dominate the UK’s energy portfolio, comprising approximately 63% of energy output in 2020.

Natural gas is the largest contributor to both energy output and consumption.

The transition to renewable energy sources, particularly wind and biomass, is vital for reducing the UK’s carbon footprint.

Conclusion:

The United Kingdom’s commendable progress in carbon emissions reduction, aligned with UN SDGs, signifies a dedicated commitment to a sustainable future. While substantial headway has been made, addressing challenges in transportation, energy storage, and the integration of CCUS technologies is paramount. The UK continues to lead the path towards a low-carbon future by aligning policies with UN SDGs and promoting sustainable energy solutions.

July 15, 2023

Grant of international patent for invention at BU

BU research, Impact, Industry collaboration, innovation, international, Research communication, Research news Zulfiqar Khan

: Corrosion, stress corrosion and corrosion fatigue mechanisms occur in suspension bridges and complex structures (stock image library).

: Corrosion due to environmental factors such as varying temperatures, high salinity, humidity ratios and atmospheric quality occurs in suspension bridges (stock image library).

: Corrosion, stress corrosion, corrosion fatigue and biofouling mechanisms occur in onshore and offshore installations which are subjected to marine environment especially high saline water (stock image library).

: Various corrosion mechanisms including stress corrosion cracking and corrosion fatigue occur in structures and bridges (stock image library).

It comes as a great news for both BU and academic staff that a major international patent has been granted by China National Intellectual Property Administration who have confirmed that it will record the grant of the patent right in the Patent Register, issue the patent certificate for invention, and announce the grant. The patent right shall take effect from the date of announcement, July 4, 2023.

This is a predictive and prognostic invention as a remote probing system to monitor corrosion of conductive or nonconductive coatings and subsurface degradation.

The EIS measurement is resistant to interference and has a high corrosion resolution which produces stable and reliable results. Protective properties of a coating can be learned from an impedance spectroscopy obtained via the measurement that reflects changes in the coating and at the interface of coating-substrate system.

Project lead Professor Zulfiqar Khan has congratulated their co-inventors Dr Mian Hammad Nazir and Dr Adil Saeed for their hard work, dedication and passion over the years. This is the result of years of collective work spanning over several research programmes, Professor Khan added.

This invention will enable, a diverse portfolio of industry sectors and applications in aerospace, automotive industry, shipyards, petrochemical, process, infrastructures, high value assets including Reinforced Concrete (RC) elements of marine structures such as piled jetties, marine installation, gas pipelines, motorways structures and mobile assets such as large vehicles, to monitor, predict and prognose a complex failure initiation and propagation mechanism in real time. This will result in significant cost savings, reducing downtime, enhancing reliability and service life.

Further details and media coverage with a short video about the background of work is available here.

Keywords: Condition monitoring, corrosion, coating, sensor, impedance, electrochemical, spectroscopy, materials, composites.

October 6, 2022

Reminder – REF Roles expressions of interest deadline fast approaching!

BU research, REF Subjects, Research assessment sastringer

We are currently recruiting to a number of roles to help support preparation for our next REF submission. The deadline for expressions of interest is the 11th October 2022.

We are also now welcoming expressions of interest for REF UOA 18 Lead for Law.

Further information is outlined below…

The roles are recruited through an open and transparent process, which gives all academic staff the opportunity to put themselves forward. Applications from underrepresented groups (e.g. minority ethnic, declared disability) are particularly welcome.

We are currently preparing submissions to thirteen units (otherwise known as UOAs). Each unit has a leadership team with at least one leader, an output and impact champion. The leadership team are supported by a panel of reviewers who assess the research from the unit. This includes research outputs (journal articles, book chapters, digital artefacts and conference proceedings) and impact case studies.

We currently have vacancies in the following roles:

UOA Leads –	Review Panel Members –
4 – Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience	3 – Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy
11 – Computer Science and Informatics	4 – Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience
18 – Law	11 – Computer Science and Informatics
27 – English Language and Literature	12 – Engineering
Output Champion –	14 – Geography and Environmental Studies
11 – Computer Science and Informatics	15 – Archaeology
14 – Geography and Environmental Studies	17 – Business and Management Studies
Impact Champion –	18 – Law
4 – Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience	20 – Social Work and Social Policy
11 – Computer Science and Informatics	24 – Sport and Exercise Sciences, Leisure and Tourism
12 – Engineering	27 – English Language and Literature
14 – Geography and Environmental Studies	32 – Art and Design: History, Practice and Theory
24 – Sport and Exercise Sciences, Leisure and Tourism	34 – Communication, Culture and Media Studies, Library and Information Management

All roles require a level of commitment which is recognised accordingly with time to review, attend meetings, and take responsibility for tasks.

Undertaking a UOA role can be enjoyable and rewarding as two of our current champions testify:

“As UOA Outputs Champion you develop a detailed knowledge of all the great work that colleagues are doing related to the subject, and the different outlets used for disseminating their work. As an outputs committee member, you also get to know what research is going on across BU, and it’s interesting to see the differences between disciplines. It’s a good way develop your knowledge of the bigger picture of BU’s research, and also to understand the importance of REF and how it works in practice. You do spend quite a bit of time chasing colleagues to put their outputs on BRIAN for REF compliance but hopefully they forgive you!”

Professor Adele Ladkin – UOA 24 Output Champion

“As a UoA 17 impact champion, I work closely with the UoA 17 impact team to encourage the development of a culture of impact across BUBS. I try to pop into Department / research group meetings when I can to discuss impact, and I’ve enjoyed meeting people with a whole range of research interests. Sometimes it can be tough to engage people with impact – understandably; everyone is busy – so it’s important to be enthusiastic about the need for our BU research to reach the public. Overall, the role is about planting the seeds to get researchers thinking about the impact their work might have in the future (as well as the impact they have already had, sometimes without realising!)”

Dr Rafaelle Nicholson – UOA 17 Impact Champion

How to apply

All those interested should put forward a short case (suggested length of one paragraph) as to why they are interested in the role and what they think they could bring to it. These should be clearly marked with the relevant role and unit and emailed to ref@bournemouth.ac.uk by 11^th October 2022.

Further detail on the roles, the process of recruitment and selection criteria can be found here:

UOA Leader	Output Champion	Impact Champion	Panel Reviewer
Role Descriptor	Role Descriptor	Role Descriptor	Role Descriptor
Process and criteria for selection	Process and criteria for selection	Process and criteria for selection	Process and criteria for selection

For further information please contact ref@bournemouth.ac.uk, a member of current UOA Team or your Deputy Dean Research and Professional Practice with queries.

September 16, 2022

Would you like to get more involved in preparing our next REF submission?

BU research, REF Subjects, Research assessment, research opportunities sastringer

We are recruiting to a number of roles to help support preparation for our next REF submission. The roles are recruited through an open and transparent process, which gives all academic staff the opportunity to put themselves forward. Applications from underrepresented groups (e.g. minority ethnic, declared disability) are particularly welcome.

We currently have vacancies in the following roles:

UOA Leads –	Review Panel Members –
4 – Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience	3 – Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy
11 – Computer Science and Informatics	4 – Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience
27 – English Language and Literature	11 – Computer Science and Informatics
Output Champion –	12 – Engineering
11 – Computer Science and Informatics	14 – Geography and Environmental Studies
14 – Geography and Environmental Studies	15 – Archaeology
Impact Champion –	17 – Business and Management Studies
4 – Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience	18 – Law
11 – Computer Science and Informatics	20 – Social Work and Social Policy
12 – Engineering	24 – Sport and Exercise Sciences, Leisure and Tourism
14 – Geography and Environmental Studies	27 – English Language and Literature
18 – Law	32 – Art and Design: History, Practice and Theory
24 – Sport and Exercise Sciences, Leisure and Tourism	34 – Communication, Culture and Media Studies, Library and Information Management

All roles require a level of commitment which is recognised accordingly with time to review, attend meetings, and take responsibility for tasks.

Undertaking a UOA role can be enjoyable and rewarding as two of our current champions testify:

“As UOA Outputs Champion you develop a detailed knowledge of all the great work that colleagues are doing related to the subject, and the different outlets used for disseminating their work. As an outputs committee member, you also get to know what research is going on across BU, and it’s interesting to see the differences between disciplines. It’s a good way develop your knowledge of the bigger picture of BU’s research, and also to understand the importance of REF and how it works in practice. You do spend quite a bit of time chasing colleagues to put their outputs on BRIAN for REF compliance but hopefully they forgive you!”

Professor Adele Ladkin – UOA 24 Output Champion

“As a UoA 17 impact champion, I work closely with the UoA 17 impact team to encourage the development of a culture of impact across BUBS. I try to pop into Department / research group meetings when I can to discuss impact, and I’ve enjoyed meeting people with a whole range of research interests. Sometimes it can be tough to engage people with impact – understandably; everyone is busy – so it’s important to be enthusiastic about the need for our BU research to reach the public. Overall, the role is about planting the seeds to get researchers thinking about the impact their work might have in the future (as well as the impact they have already had, sometimes without realising!)”

Dr Rafaelle Nicholson – UOA 17 Impact Champion

How to apply

Further detail on the roles, the process of recruitment and selection criteria can be found here:

UOA Leader	Output Champion	Impact Champion	Panel Reviewer
Role Descriptor	Role Descriptor	Role Descriptor	Role Descriptor
Process and criteria for selection	Process and criteria for selection	Process and criteria for selection	Process and criteria for selection

For further information please contact ref@bournemouth.ac.uk, a member of current UOA Team or your Deputy Dean Research and Professional Practice with queries.

April 17, 2021

COVID – a reflective account, an engineering perspective.

COVID-19, Events Zulfiqar Khan

There have always been challenges and opportunities. Some might say that challenges could be over and an opportunity could be lost, really?

There are several key subjects in mechanical engineering, majority attempt to bridge the gap between theory and practice and simultaneously present a simplified solution such as engineering maths, machine design, theory of machines and power plants etc. there are two core subjects which are more challenging in terms of the nature of problems we are asked to solve – such as thermodynamics and thermofluids which in turn are multidisciplinary subjects and do incorporate elements of functional analysis, linear and nonlinear relationships, physics, energy and flow.

Mechanical engineering itself is an interdisciplinary subject which is underpinned by mathematics and physics. To simplify physical analyses, like the recent landfall in Dorset, although it is a geological event, lets for the time being ignore this element. Two categories, in physics have been defined in terms of whether a body is in motion or at rest, are referred to as dynamics and statics. There is a major mechanism which is called erosion, just before the landfall, the state is static, during the landfall the state is dynamic. Let’s consider, if a body is in motion and there is an element of power, not the power we associate with the words like, politics or megalomaniac, but say heat energy, for example recent Icelandic volcanic eruption, although generally speaking this would fall under volcanology, let’s assume we are not discussing this, there is an element of heat energy in motion which is called thermodynamics.

If we have understood what thermodynamics is, then let’s move to statics. Anything in stationary state, not moving, will come under statics. A coffee table in our lounge, a parked car, a bookshelf etc. in turn the analysis is relatively easy and simple. Are these stationary? is the motion zero? think again.

We talk about destination(s). What is ‘the destination’?

Locally (lounge, car park, library /study) the motion is zero, and we have a zero value. Globally the motion is not zero as the earth is spinning and orbiting. Therefore, universal motion cannot be zero. In turn there is no absolute zero.

Fridge and freezer in our kitchens run on a thermodynamic cycle, there are four distinct processes in a thermodynamic cycle: compression in the compressor, evaporation in the evaporator, condensation in the condenser and expansion in the throttle (expansion) valve. We keep our food and drinks cold in the fridge or food frozen in the freezer. Although in terms of the objective, a lower and controlled temperature is desired, is it destination? thermodynamic cycle is composed of processes and there is no final stage, unless the fridge or freezer stop working. Initial point of a process is connected to the final point of preceding process, and final point of a process is connected to the initial point of proceeding process – all processes are interconnected, it is a ‘cycle’ where is the destination? in turn a destination would mean no motion, static, this is not desired.

What happens after the destination?

We have sources of energy, finite (fossil fuel) to infinite (sun). The energy which is responsible for making chemical reactions happen is called Gibbs Free Energy (GFE). When GFE runs out chemical reactions will cease to occur. For example, by pouring hot water, providing energy, on washing soda, a reaction will happen, a good old recipe to unclog drains. The reaction will stop when that energy runs out.

All sources of energy lead to thermodynamics behaviour which is called Entropy. Let’s take a carboard box, put a few green tennis balls on one side, and a few red tennis balls on the other side, this is a state of order. Now shake the box, green and red balls will mix – this is a state of disorder, if heat energy was involved in this process, then this was Entropy. For example, climate change, rising sea levels, volcanic eruptions and landfalls are all examples of Entropy.

We know that there is no absolute zero, therefore the Entropy has to increase or at its best remain constant, but only locally, for example the landfall in Dorset may not be happening now, it does not mean that erosion elsewhere is not taking place, rising sea level is not the same everywhere. Entropy must increase or could remain constant – disorder must increase or could remain constant.

Let’s go back to March 2020. I was getting out of our staff kitchen on my office floor with a cup of coffee, a work colleague was coming from the opposite side. My colleague told me that, they are planning to go to superstore for shopping to stockpile provisions and utilities. To justify this, my colleague added, we would go to lockdown soon following France.

Lockdown? is it static or dynamic? is it increasing or keeping the Entropy constant?

Stockpile? is it static or dynamic? is it increasing or keeping the Entropy constant?

Soon the Government issued a statement that “people ‘must’ stay at home and certain businesses must close”. A state of zero Entropy?

Wait a minute, do you recall if anyone mentioned anything about flatulence, diarrhoea or indigestion etc, remember stockpiling toilet rolls?

There are economic and psychological aspects to this, “In Auckland, New Zealand, supermarket spending shot up by 40% comparing to the same day the previous year”.

“It is rational to prepare for something bad that looks like it is likely to occur,” says David Savage, associate professor of behavioural and microeconomics.

Ben Oppenheim, senior director at San Francisco-based infectious disease research firm Metabiota, agrees. “It’s probably true that panic buying is ultimately a psychological mechanism to deal with our fear and uncertainty; a way to assert some control over the situation by taking an action.”

Physical disorder continued, “Evidence to the Commons EFRA Committee from the British Retail Consortium stated that the main difficulty in meeting the rapid increase in retail demand was the logistics of moving food through the supply chain quickly enough, with deliveries to stores increasing by 30%.” [Source]. “News of empty supermarket shelves and other disruptions in the food supply chain in countries already affected by COVID-19 influenced UK consumer behaviour and led to relatively short lived ‘stock piling’ buying behaviour to prepare for a worst case scenario.” [Source].

A state of lockdown meant zero Entropy, carbon emissions fall down by more than a third, should it continue, there is a chance of Entropy is going in the reverse direction, thermodynamically it is not possible. Stockpiling added to Entropy.

When the lockdown was eased, eat out to help out, we went to several local restaurants to make our contributions to local economy.

We also went to Stonehenge, it was a gorgeous day and outdoor coffee was a bonus, what? Stonehenge is static, I am a dynamist.

When will the Entropy stop and what would the scenario look like?

There is always a gradient therefore change in pressures and temperatures, flow of water, heat flow: boiling or freezing water will continue to take place. No flow means equilibrium, it is a local phenomenon, a lake. And for example, mechanical equilibrium, a seesaw should be dynamic (interesting) when both persons on either end change their loading configuration, seesaw will move up and down. If the load (person on each side) is equal then seesaw would not move, it is static, it is local equilibrium (limited to seesaw), it doesn’t mean that temperature is not changing or the tides are not going out or coming in. I did not stockpile anything because the flow must happen. Stockpiling meant excessive gradient, must be followed by accelerated supply and production – increased Entropy.

Destination is static; the uncertainty associated with destination distracts from the process, the journey. The destination is a state of absolute zero, I will let you interpret this. Challenges will not go away and opportunities will never be lost – absolute zero cannot be reached, Entropy will always increase or if we are very lucky then it could remain constant. Globally Entropy must increase, journey must continue, challenges will be there and opportunities will cross our path.

Each end of a process is a destination, but that is also the final point of a process, so the process hence the journey must continue to connect to the next initial point of another process in the cycle. Presence in the process and enjoying the journey will lead to impactful outcomes.

COVID is just a process within a cycle, and we are on its final point.

September 5, 2020

COVID-19 publications at BU

BRIAN, BU research, COVID-19, Featured academics, Global engagement, humanities, international, Knowledge Exchange, nhs, NHS, open access, parliament, Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology, Publishing, REF Subjects, Research communication, Research Integritiy, staff profile pages, student research, Uncategorized, writing Edwin van Teijlingen

Over the past half year or so BU academics have produced a healthy crop of publications on COVID-19/ corona virus. Searching the word ‘COVID’ today Saturday 5^th September, on the university’s repository BURO (Bournemouth University Research Online), resulted in 59 records of publications whilst searching for ‘corona’ gave 48 publications. Removing duplicates, obviously irrelevant papers (e.g. one paper had a co-author called ‘Corona’) and papers published prior to 2020 resulted in a combined total of 66 BU publications. Some papers are obviously focused on COVID-19/corona virus, as the title suggests. Others may merely mention corona virus or COVID-19 in the body of the text, perhaps as a reason for delay in the research, as a new opportunity or barrier and so on. A search on Scopus and BRIAN added nine more Bournemouth co-authored papers to the reference list below.

References from BURO & Scopus:

Adedoyin, F., Bekun, F.V., Driha, M.O. and Balsalobre-Lorente, D., 2020. The Effects of Air Transportation, Energy, ICT and FDI on Economic Growth in The Industry 4.0 Era: Evidence from the United States. Technological Forecasting and Social Change. (In Press)
Ahmed, O., Carmody, S., Walker, L. and Ahmad, I., 2020. The need for speed! 10 ways that WhatsApp and instant messaging can enhance communication (and clinical care) in sport & exercise medicine. British Journal of Sports Medicine. (In Press)
Ahmed, O., Fulcher, M., Malone, D., Mira Y Lopez, C., Rho, M. and Strojna, A., 2020. The introduction of temporary concussion substitutions in disability football: Are we “headed” in the right direction? Football Medicine & Performance, Spring (32), 13 – 16.
Akudjedu, T.N., Lawal, O., Sharma, M., Elliott, J., Stewart, S., Gilleece, T., McFadden, S. and Franklin, J.M., 2020. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on radiography practice: findings from a UK radiography workforce survey. British Journal of Radiology. (In Press)
Alhassan, G., Adedoyin, F., Bekun, F.V. and Agabo, T., 2020. Does Life Expectancy, Death Rate and Public Health Expenditure matter in sustaining Economic growth under COVID-19: Empirical Evidence from Nigeria? Journal of Public Affairs. (In Press)
Al Maamari, G., 2020. Multiple stakeholders’ perception of the long-term success of project: a critical study of Oman tourism resort projects. Doctoral Thesis (Doctoral). Bournemouth University
Angelopoulos, C.M. and Katos, V., 2020. DHP Framework: Digital Health Passports Using Blockchain – Use case on international tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic. arXiv (2005.08922v2 [cs.CY]).
Asim, M., Sathian, B., van Teijlingen, E., Mekkodathil, A., Subramanya, S.H. and Simkhada, P., 2020. COVID-19 Pandemic: Public Health Implications in Nepal. Nepal Journal of Epidemiology, 10 (1), 817 – 820.
Azman, A., Singh, P., Parker, J. and Ashencaen Crabtree, S., 2020. Addressing competency requirements of social work students during the Covid-19 pandemic in Malaysia. Social Work Education. (In Press) DOI: 10.1080/02615479.2020.1815692
Balsalobre- Lorente, D., Driha, O.M., Bekun, F.V., Sinha, A. and Adedoyin, F., 2020. Consequences of Covid-19 on the Social Isolation of the Chinese Economy: Accounting for the Role of Reduction in Carbon Emissions. Air Quality, Atmosphere and Health. (In Press)
Cai, W., McKenna, B., Wassler, P. and Williams, N., 2020. Rethinking Knowledge Creation in Information Technology and Tourism. Journal of Travel Research. (In Press)
Caudwell, J., 2020. Transgender and Non-binary Swimming in the UK: Indoor Public Pool Spaces and Un/Safety. Frontiers in Sociology, 5, 64
Clarkson, B.G., Culvin, A., Pope, S. and Parry, K. D., 2020. Covid-19: Reflections on threat and uncertainty for the future of elite women’s football in England. Managing Sport and Leisure. (In Press)
Côté, P, Bussières, A, Cassidy, J., Hartvigsen, J, Kawchuk, G., Leboeuf-Yde, C, Mior, S, Schneider, M, and more than 140 signatories# call for an end to pseudoscientif, and Breen, A. C., 2020. A united statement of the global chiropractic research community against the pseudoscientific claim that chiropractic care boosts immunity. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 28 (1), 21.
Cretan, R. and Light, D., 2020. COVID-19 in Romania: transnational labour, geopolitics, and the Roma ‘outsiders’. Eurasian Geography & Economics. (In Press)
Escaith, H., Khorana, S., MacGregor, J., Vickers, B. and Ali, S., 2020. The Potential Impact of COVID-19 on Commonwealth Trade, Recovery and Resilience. The Commonwealth Trade Hot Topics, 161.
Esteves, L., Ashencaen Crabtree, S. and Hemingway, A., 2020. Impacts of C-19 lockdown on the work-life balance of BU academics – Preliminary results. Working Paper. Poole, England: Bournemouth University.
Fowler-Watt, K., Majin, G., Sunderland, M., Phillips, M., Brine, D., Bissell, A. and Murphy, J., 2020. Reflections on the Shifting Shape of Journalism Education in the Covid-19 pandemic. Digital Culture and Education (June 22). (In Press)
Gingrich, O., Shemza, A. and Almena, M., 2020. TRANSFORMATIONS: New media art between communities and professional practice. In: EVA London, 16-18 November 2020, London. (In Press)
Giousmpasoglou C, Marinakou E, Zopiatis A. 2020. Ο ρόλος των Γενικών Διευθυντών στα ξενοδοχεία 4* και 5* κατά τη διάρκεια της πανδημίας COVID-19: μία έρευνα σε 45 χώρες. Money & Tourism Magazine
Hobson, S., Hind, M, Mojsilovic, A, Varshney, KR. 2020 Trust and Transparency in Contact Tracing Applications, CoRR, abs/2006.11356
Hodge, S. and Johnson, L., 2020. The digitally resilient student. The Psychologist.
Hughes, J.G., Leydon, G.M., Watts, S., Hughes, S., Brindle, L.A., Arden-Close, E., Bacon, R., Birch, B., Carballo, L., Plant, H., Moore, C.M., Stuart, B., Yao, G., Lewith, G. and Richardson, A., 2020. A feasibility study of a psycho-educational support intervention for men with prostate cancer on active surveillance. Cancer Reports, 3 (2), e1230.
Jackson, D., Bradbury-Jones, C., Baptiste, D., Gelling, L. H., Morin, K., Neville, S. and Smith, G.D., 2020. Life in the pandemic: Some reflections on nursing in the context of COVID-19. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 29 (13-14), 2041-2043.
Jackson, D., Bradbury-Jones, C., Baptiste, D., Gelling, L.H., Morin, K., Neville, S. and Smith, G.D., 2020. International Nurses Day 2020: Remembering nurses who have died in the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 29 (13-14), 2050-52.
Jan, R. and van Teijlingen, E., 2020. COVID-19: The New Corona Virus Upsetting Our World. Journal of Asian Midwives, 7 (1), 1 – 3.
Kaolawanich, R., Oe, H., Yamaoka, Y. and Chang, C. Y., 2020. A discussion of a luxury apparel brand strategy in an emerging market: Conceptual model with network perspectives. Journal of Social, Cultural and Political Studies, 4 (2), 58 – 72.
Khashu, M., Provenzi, L., Adama, E., Garfield, C., Koliouli, F., Fisher, D., Nørgaard, B., Thomson-Salo, F., van Teijlingen, E., Ireland, J. and Feeley, N., 2020. COVID-19 restrictions and fathers of infants in neonatal care. BMJ Global Health, 5 (4).
Khorana, S, Escaith, H, MacGregor J, Vickers B, Ali S., 2020 The Potential Impact of COVID-19 on Commonwealth Trade, Recovery and Resilience he Commonwealth Trade Hot Topics Article number 161
Li, Z., Feng, C., Zheng, J., Wu, M. and Yu, H., 2020. Towards Adversarial Robustness via Feature Matching. IEEE Access, 8, 88594 – 88603.
Light, D., Cretan, R., Voiculescu, S. and Juca, S., 2020. Introduction: Changing Tourism in the Cities of Post-communist Central and Eastern Europe. Journal of Balkans and Near Eastern Studies, 22 (4), 465-477.
Lyne, M., Brown, K. and Grimshaw, K., 2020. Advance care planning. Poole, England: NCPQSW Bournemouth University.
Lyne, M., Grimshaw, K. and Brown, K., 2020a. The Mental Capacity Act requirements for clinical decisions regarding treatment and care. Poole, England: NCPQSW Bournemouth University
Lyne, M., Grimshaw, K. and Brown, K., 2020b. Guidance on the use of the Mental Capacity Act for decisions regarding clinical treatment and care: An introduction. Poole, England: NCPQSW Bournemouth University.
Lyne, M., Grimshaw, K. and Brown, K., 2020c. The Mental Capacity Act requirements when an individual lacks the mental capacity to consent to treatment and care. Poole, England: NCPQSW Bournemouth University.
Lyne, M. and Parker, J., 2020. From Ovid to Covid: The metamorphosis of Advanced Decisions to Refuse Treatment into a safeguarding issue. Journal of Adult Protection. (In Press)
Mahato, P. K., Tamang, P., Shahi, P., Aryal, N., Regmi, P., Van Teijlingen, E. and Simkhada, P., 2020. Effects of COVID-19 during lockdown in Nepal. Europasian Journal of Medical Sciences, 2 (2).
Matthews, J., 2020. “Cultural exceptionalism” in the global exchange of (mis)information around Japan’s responses to Covid-19. Media and Communication, 8 (2), 448-451.
McAlaney, J. and Hills, P.J., 2020. Understanding Phishing Email Processing and Perceived Trustworthiness Through Eye Tracking. Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 1756.
Miles, L. and Shipway, R., 2020. Exploring the COVID-19 Pandemic as a Catalyst for Stimulating Future Research Agendas for Managing Crises and Disasters at International Sport Events. Event Management, 24 (4), 537- 552.
Mimler, M., 2020. Current developments – Europe: The final nail in the coffin for the patent with unitary effect or just another bump in the road? The German Constitutional Court declares void the German Act of Approval on a Unified Patent Court (2 BvR 739/17). Intellectual Property Forum, 120 (June), 89 – 91.
Muniz-Pardos, B., Shurlock, J., Debruyne, A., Steinacker, J.M., Börjesson, M., Wolfarth, B., Bilzon, J.L.J., Löllgen, H., Ionescu, A., Zupet, P., Dohi, M., Swart, J., Badtieva, V., Zelenkova, I., Casasco, M., Geistlinger, M., Bachl, N., Tsofliou, F., Di Luigi, L., Bigard, X., Papadopoulou, T., Webborn, N., Singleton, P., Miller, M., Pigozzi, F. and Pitsiladis, Y.P., 2020. Collateral Health Issues Derived from the Covid-19 Pandemic. Sports Medicine – Open, 6 (1), 35.
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Nguyen, A. and Catalan, D., 2020. Digital Mis/Disinformation and Public Engagment with Health and Science Controversies: Fresh Perspectives from Covid-19. Media and Communication, 8 (2), 323 – 328.
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Parrilli, M. D., Balavac, M. and Radicic, D., 2020. Business innovation modes and their impact on innovation outputs: Regional variations and the nature of innovation across EU regions. Research Policy, 49 (8), 104047.
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Rosser, E. Westcott, L., Ali, P.A., Bosanquet, J., Castro-Sanchez, E., Dewing, J., McCormack, B., Merrell, J., Witham, G. 2020 The Need for Visible Nursing Leadership During COVID-19. Journal of Nursing Scholarship. (In Press)
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Whilst searching BU Research Blog added a further eight references:

Aryal, N. (2020) Misinformation: a visible enemy of public health, BU Research Blog (27 May) https://blogs.bournemouth.ac.uk/research/2020/05/27/misinformation-a-visible-enemy-of-public-health/
Alloh, F.T., Regmi, P., van Teijlingen, E. (2020) Is ethnicity linked to incidence or outcomes of Covid-19? (Rapid Response) BMJ (14 May) 369:m1548
Ballardini, R., Santos Rutschman, A., Mendi, D. (2020) 3D Printing: How an Emerging Technology May Help Fight a Pandemic https://iprinfo.fi/artikkeli/3d-printing-how-an-emerging-technology-may-help-fight-a-pandemic/
Heaslip, V., Parker, J. (2020) The hidden impact of coronavirus on Gypsy, Roma Travellers, The Conversation (18 August) https://theconversation.com/the-hidden-impact-of-coronavirus-on-gypsy-roma-travellers-141015
Clarkson, B., Culvin, A., Parry, K., Pope, S. (2020) Coronavirus: the future of women’s football is under threat, The Conversation (15 June) https://theconversation.com/coronavirus-the-future-of-womens-football-is-under-threat-139582
Batey, J., Parry, K. 2020. Coronavirus: why self-isolation brings mental health strain for elite athletes, The Conversation (14 April) https://theconversation.com/coronavirus-why-self-isolation-brings-mental-health-strain-for-elite-athletes-135273
Hemingway, A. 2020. Nurses are on the coronavirus frontline, so why are they being left out of the response? The Conversation (9 Sept) https://theconversation.com/nurses-are-on-the-coronavirus-frontline-so-why-are-they-being-left-out-of-the-response-143658
Miles, L. 2020. Sierra Leone faces coronavirus as rainy season hits – local disaster planning will be key, The Conversation (19 June) https://theconversation.com/sierra-leone-faces-coronavirus-as-rainy-season-hits-local-disaster-planning-will-be-key-139604

And last, but not least, BU’s PATH project team has produced a comic book to point pregnant women and their families to a collection of trusted online resources The interactive version of the book is here.

Prof. Edwin van Teijlingen

Centre for Midwifery, Maternal & Perinatal Health (CMMPH)

February 22, 2020

Corrosion Condition Monitoring

BU research, Impact, innovation, international, Publishing Zulfiqar Khan

Collaborative research with The Tank Museum in terms of experimental investigations to evaluate and analyse corrosion induced damage to high value assets led to further collaborations with NASA Materials & Corrosion Control Branch and BAE Systems. The experimental research provided valuable data to develop precision based mathematical models in collaboration with Defence Science & Technology Laboratory (DSTL) Ministry of Defence (MOD) to predict and prognose fracture, electrochemical and coating failures in military vehicles. Further work was conducted to develop in-situ and remote sensing, prediction and prognosis models incorporating advanced sensing techniques to predict and prognose corrosion, coating and fracture led failures.

Subject of this study

Subject of this study

In a separate research additional work has led to state-of-the-art novel sensor design and has been recently patented (GB2018/053368). A framework of remote sensing techniques have been developed and has been adopted by Analatom Inc. USA which are successfully applied in several key installations in the US.

Telescopic Electrochemical Cell (TEC) for Non-Destructive Corrosion Testing of Coated Substrate. Patent number GB2018/053368

Since 2009 a suite of numerical models – and published algorithms and methodologies that have enabled other researchers to reproduce the methods – have been developed at NanoCorr, Energy & Modelling (NCEM) Research Group (previously SDRC[1]) to simulate corrosion failures in large complex engineering structures and to predict averaged material properties, typically measured in laboratory experiments, such as hardness and corrosion resistance.

Experimental work at NCEM was started in 2009 with a focus on corrosion issues and expanded to multidisciplinary research with new grants from several key stakeholders into wear-corrosion, nanocoating failure, fracture mechanics, in-situ and remote sensing techniques. This research was led and conducted by Professor Zulfiqar A Khan and his team including Dr Adil Saeed, Dr Mian Hammad Nazir, Dr Jawwad Latif and several other PGRs and Post Docs.

At the start of project, research was conducted to analyse corrosion and tribological failures in The Tank Museum Bovington military tanks. Based on collected data, (3.5 years of live data, over 153k data points) numerical models were developed for simulating corrosion failures in nonconductive polymeric coatings applied to large engineering structures such as automotive and aerospace applications. These models represented the failing structure as bending cantilever beam subjected to mechanical and/or thermal loading which produces both residual and diffusion-induced stresses in beam. These numerical models were later extended to include nano-composite metal and sea water resistant coatings.

These structures are affected by corrosion

This numerical modelling technology developed at NCEM was combined with remote sensing techniques, which enabled predictions in static structures and high value mobile assets substituting conventional methods which require expensive & time consuming experimental setup and laborious while often unreliable visual inspection. The technology allowed faster structural analyses with greater reliability and precision compared to experiments in turn saving money, labour and time. Further developments included the performance enhancement of coatings under extreme temperatures and pressures. Recent plans are to extend the model capabilities to simulate the effects of deep zone residual stresses on corrosion failures.

Coating delamination issues due to corrosion

This research has developed state of the art cells fabricated by using a special magnetic aluminium compound, which is highly electrically conductive and resistant to corrosion. The research has commissioned for deploying this novel sensing technology for micro-defects detection, corrosion rate measurement and condition assessment of defective coatings. This technology has been successfully tested and commissioned in automotive, hazardous compartments with polymeric coatings and bridges to assess their coating condition in terms of their structural integrity. Post design testing involved the installation of these cells, running diagnostics, data acquisition, and macro-graphs to predict structural defects and the resulting corrosion rate. Taking above research further, an NDT apparatus for use in sensing the electromechanical state of an object was invented to monitor the health/condition of coatings.

Further details can be found in [1, 2, and 3]. If you have interest in the above subjects or have questions and would like to discuss then contact Professor Zulfiqar A Khan.

[1] Sustainable Design Research Centre

February 3, 2020

MHRA webinar regarding new regulations on Medical Devices – 6 Feb 2020

BU research, Industry collaboration, NHS Louise Ward

*Unfortunately this webinar is being postponed

On 6 Feb MHRA are running a webinar about changes to the UK law for medical devices which will affect the NHS/University.

The changes will apply from 26th May 2020 and introduce a number of changes for Healthcare Institutions, including for clinical trials for medical devices, reprocessing single use devices and storing device identifier information.

If you are involved in developing a clinical trial for a device, manufacture, reprocess or regularly use medical devices, they encourage you to attend the webinar.

This is your opportunity to see what changes are being made and better understand how it will impact on you.

The meeting will be held on: Feb 6, 2020 12:00 PM

You will need to register in advance for this meeting at the following link: https://mhra.zoom.us/meeting/register/v5wqc-ChrDkrj8YZBNePipahj_S_yXcWng Instructions on how to register can be found here.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

If you have any further questions about this webinar please reply to Devices.Consultation@MHRA.gov.uk

Don’t forget your local branch of the NIHR RDS (Research Design Service) is based within the BU Clinical Research Unit (BUCRU) on the 5th floor of Royal London House.

Feel free to pop in and see us in person, call us on 61939 or send us an email.

October 14, 2019

More pilots please!

BU research, Doctoral College, Featured academics, PG research, Publishing, REF Subjects, Research communication, Research Integritiy, Research Training, student research, Uncategorized, writing Edwin van Teijlingen

“More pilots please!” is not a call from British Airways, Ryanair or the Royal Air Force. No, it a reminder to students to do more piloting in their postgraduate research projects. Between us we have read many (draft) theses and examined over 60 PhD theses external to Bournemouth University, and it is clear to us that many students do not do enough pre-testing or piloting of their research instruments. Perhaps they did some piloting or feasibility work for their projects but don’t write enough about it. Or they present some feasibility or piloting in their thesis but haven’t added references to methodological texts.

The term ‘pilot studies’ refers to mini versions of a full-scale study (also called ‘feasibility’ studies), as well as the specific pre-testing of a particular research instruments such as data collection tools (i.e. questionnaire or semi-structured interview schedule). Pilot studies are key to good study design [1-6]. Conducting a pilot study does not guarantee success in the main study, but it does increase the likelihood of success. Pilot studies have several of important functions in research design and can provide valuable insights to the researcher on both tools and research processes. We think it is telling that our most cited paper on Google Scholar is not one of our papers reporting research findings but a methods paper highlighting the importance of pilot studies [2].

Professors Vanora Hundley & Edwin van Teijlingen

CMMPH

References:

van Teijlingen E, Rennie, AM., Hundley, V, Graham, W. (2001) The importance of conducting & reporting pilot studies: example of Scottish Births Survey, Journal of Advanced Nursing, 34: 289-95.
van Teijlingen E, Hundley, V. (2001) The importance of pilot studies, Social Research Update Issue 35, (Editor N. Gilbert), Guildford: University of Surrey. Web: http://www.soc.surrey.ac.uk/sru/SRU35.html
van Teijlingen E, Hundley, V.(2002) ‘The importance of pilot studies’ Nursing Standard 16(40): 33-36. Web: www.nursing-standard.co.uk/archives/vol16-40/pdfs/vol16w40p3336.pdf
Hundley, V., van Teijlingen E, (2002) The role of pilot studies in midwifery research RCM Midwives Journal 5(11): 372-74.
van Teijlingen E, Hundley, V. (2003) Pilot study, In: Lewis-Beck, M., Bryman, A. & Liao, T. (eds.) Encyclopaedia of Social Science Research Methods, Vol. 2, Orego, Sage: 823-24.
van Teijlingen E, Hundley, V. (2005) Pilot studies in family planning & reproductive health care, Journal of Family Planning & Reproductive Health Care 31(3): 219-21.

October 9, 2019

BU Celebrates Global Entrepreneurship Week

BU2025, Business Engagement, Centre for Excellence in Learning, Doctoral College, ECR Network, Events, Festival of Learning, Fusion, Global engagement, Knowledge Transfer, Public engagement, R & KE Operations, REF Subjects, Research news, research staff, RKE development framework, Student Engagement, the conversation, Uncategorized, Women's Academic Network Sukanya Ayatakshi

BU is celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week, for the first time, on the 19th of November with not ONE but TWO Mega Events! Supporting student experience; supporting BU commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals; and providing a platform to bring together wonderful examples of the power of enterprise in changing society.

Women in Entrepreneurship: An extraordinary panel of Women from various sectors and UK and Beyond, we have a number of Famous faces on the panel as well as women who are quietly making a huge impact on society and the economy; helping break down gender barriers to entrepreneurial activities. I am immensely proud to introduce the panel and the 3 wonderful ladies from Brazil who are also going to join us (see attached pic).The Women in Entrepreneurship Panel has been possible due to the support of funding from the Women’s Academic Network (WAN); ACORN award(Public dissemination of research); and Faculty of Management (Executive Dean Dr Lois Farquharson)

Venue- KG01 Time- 1245-1630

Also, on the 19th we are bringing SOUP to BU..what’s that you ask? BH SOUP (modelled on the Detroit SOUP movement) has been running successfully in the conurbation for the last few years and this year, to celebrate GEW and to harness the energy of the newly launched BU Social Entrepreneurs Forum, BH SOUP is coming to BU with BH SOUP Loves Social Enterprises. This event too is possible due to the Faculty of Management (Dr Lois Farquharson).

Venue- Fusion Building Ground Floor space- Time 1845-2100

Please see the eventbrite links below to register (for FREE) at the event(s)

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/women-in-entrepreneurship-tickets-74693186331

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bh-soup-loves-social-enterprises-tickets-74205618001

The Panelists!

BH SOUP Loves Social Enterprises

Ana Lucia, Brazil, Founder of Vision for Good

Clarrise Seixas, from Brazil founder of MIMOS, a social impact business

Ivi Felix, From Brazil; Founder of Mantiquira Local Market

Category / General Engineering

Article Processing Charges

Research collaboration with The Tank Museum

Prestigious research exchange award

The Evolving Landscape and Future Prospects of Mechanical Engineering Education in the UK

Forecasting UK Carbon Emissions: The Next 5 to 10 Years

Time for Something New?

Revolutionising Industries: The Significance, Impacts, and Reliability of Nanocoatings

UK’s Carbon Emissions Progress

Grant of international patent for invention at BU

COVID – a reflective account, an engineering perspective.

Corrosion Condition Monitoring

MHRA webinar regarding new regulations on Medical Devices – 6 Feb 2020

*Unfortunately this webinar is being postponed

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