Operando Imaging: 4-dimensional characterization of micro-scale processes
In many applications, processes and developments on the microscale determine the macroscale response of a material, be that in rocks, construction materials (concrete, timber), engineering materials (ceramics, composites) or foodstuff. Together with colleagues at leading research institutions across Europe, I offer the bespoke 4-dimensional characterisation of processes on the microscale. Combining ~30 years of experience in x-ray and neutron imaging and image analysis, our expertise covers the entirety of 4D imaging of complex micro-scale processes from experiment design through advanced data acquisition to data analysis and simulation.
We offer a full service, from experiment design, data acquisition and processing to a full quantitative analysis tailored to your requirements. For your experiment, we will either use our large existing suite of x-ray transparent experimental environments, or design and build a bespoke one. We will use the leading imaging facilities in Europe and overseas, including synchrotron light sources, to acquire the best possible image data for your project. Our team includes world-class image analysis experts that will ensure that you get the data you need. Please get in touch to discuss your needs.
Image showing vertical slices through strain fields measured between two 3D datasets collected from curing concrete, illustrating the strains during the early stages of curing. The images are 2.31 mm wide. Left) Deviatoric strain (the “maximum shear strain”, uncorrelated points in black) highlighting that most shear strain localises along aggregate-mortar interfaces, Middle: Volumetric strain (negative means compaction, uncorrelated points in dark blue) quantifying mostly the mortar deformation, Right: corresponding vertical slice in reference configuration.
Geological mapping
With over 20 years of experience in field-based research and teaching geological field techniques and mapping at all levels and in a wide variety of geological settings, I am ideally placed to offer geological mapping services for your project. I am specialised in classical "hard rock geology" and deformed terrains, and skilled in producing both paper-based as well as digital geological maps in the field. I can cater for a wide variety of data format requirements and produce final digital maps that will ideally support your work. I have extensive experience in analysing geological field data, in particular structural data, and am a skilled report writer, working efficiently to service your geotechnical interests. All my field work is fully risk-assessed through a qualified H&S professional and insured through Edinburgh Innovations. Recently, I have produced geological maps for pump storage projects and dams in the Scottish Highlands.
I offer services both on a day-by-day basis as well as to cover entire projects. Do get in touch to discuss your projects.
Nuclear waste storage
I have been external expert reviewer for the National Citizens’ Oversight Committee (NBG) in Germany. I was tasked with assessing the interim report "Sub-areas" thatBased on this expertise I offer was published by the Bundesgesellschaft für Endlagerung mbH (BGE) - the state-owned corporation that implements the site selection procedure. My report can be found here (in German). I also presented the report during a public event at the NBG and acted as an expert opponent during one of the public conferences that enable citizens to debate the progress of the site selection with experts from BGE.
