*DSTL* Development of novel lignin-metallic nanoparticle composites as anticorrosion and antifouling agents

Corrosion in the marine environment is a serious maintenance problem as it reduces the integrity and performance of vessels and other structures, putting safety at risk and reducing operational effectiveness. There is a high global cost associated with corrosion, around US$2.5 trillion, and a serious logistic inconvenience associated with the maintenance work.This project seeks to create a multi-functional biological composite with anti-corrosion and antifouling properties. It is an ambitious project as it aims to create a cost-effective and non-toxic multifunctional material from sustainably-sourced raw materials and requires the application of a wide range of disciplines. The synthesis of biogenic metallic nanoparticles involves Synthetic Biology and Nanobiotechnology. Testing for the antimicrobial and antifouling properties of the nanoparticles involves expertise in the areas of Nanotoxicology and Microbiology. Finally, the development of the composites comprises the areas of Material Sciences and Corrosion Sciences. The collaboration between the University of Edinburgh and the Centre for Marine Biodiversity & Biotechnology at Heriot-Watt contains the expertise, equipment and network to train the successful student to undertake all of these tasks.