Solid-State Chemistry of Functional Inorganic Materials

Our research lies in the area of synthesis and characterisation of ferroelectric oxides and related materials. Ferroelectrics account for a significant market share of electronic devices world-wide; they are the key component in the 1000 billion+ multi-layer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) produced annually and their piezoelectric properties are utilised in a range of sensors and actuators for medical ultrasound and fuel injectors. New and improved materials are required to extend device capabilities (e.g. for high temperature applications) and to replace the Pb-based materials currently used in many piezo-devices.

Our aims are to investigate and develop novel ferroelectrics and, more recently, magnetoelectrics and multiferroics (which exhibit both electric and magnetic ordering) which are expected to enable entire new device technologies. Research projects are available to understand composition-structure-property interrelations in these materials in order to develop novel materials for use in consumer electronics.

Students in the Morrison group will learn aspects of solid state and sol gel synthesis of inorganic materials and their physical and electrical characterisation. Projects typically involve a wide range of techniques including X-ray and neutron diffraction, electron microscopy, immittance (impedance and dielectric) spectroscopy and thermal analysis.

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr Finlay Morrison ([Email Address Removed]).

Potential applicants are welcome to arrange to visit St Andrews at any time.
Please see: http://ch-www.st-andrews.ac.uk/PGadmissions.html for the application procedure or e-mail [Email Address Removed] for more information.