Welcome to the Cranston Research Group!
Our research aims to design high-performance materials to replace those that are based on non-renewable resources by learning from nature and using biological components. Currently, the bio-component of choice is nanocellulose. Specifically, this work includes investigating and modifying interfacial properties between nanocomposite components and encompasses disciplines including polymer, colloid and surface chemistry, chemical and materials engineering, and pulp and paper science.
Our Upcoming Talks
- Gordon Research Conference: on June 1, 2025 – June 6, 2025
- WWSC International Conference: on June 15, 2025 – June 18, 2025
- ACS Colloids Edmonton: on June 22, 2025 – June 26, 2025
- TAPPI NANO 2025: on July 8, 2025 – July 11, 2025
- SMART 2025 – Emerging Engineered Wood for Buildings: on August 17, 2025 – August 19, 2025
- EPNOE 2025: on August 25, 2025 – August 28, 2025
- ADM 2025: on October 1, 2025- October 4, 2025
- CSChE 2025: On October 5, 2025- October 8, 2025
- ACS Spring 2026: On March 22, 2026- March 26, 2026
Research & Areas of Interest
- Cellulose nanocrystals & cellulose nanofibrils
- Hybrid & nanocomposite materials
- Biopolymers
- Organic thin films/coatings
- Biomimetic materials
- Mechanical testing of nanomaterials
- Surface modification of nanoparticles
- Cellulose foams/gels/Pickering emulsions
- AFM: imaging and surface forces, adhesion, and friction
- Adsorption measurements by QCM-D, SPR and ellipsometry
