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
- MRS Fall 2022 Meeting, Boston on November 27, 2022 - December 2, 2022
- ACS Spring 2023, Indianapolis, IN (Hybrid) on March 26, 2023 - March 30, 2023
- Canadian Chemistry Conference and Exhibition (CSC 2023) on June 4, 2023 - June 8, 2023
- 12th International Colloids Conference, Palma on June 11, 2023 - June 14, 2023
- TAPPI Nano Conference 2023, Vancouver on June 12, 2023 - June 16, 2023
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
