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Richard’s main research interest is rheology, the study of fluid flow. Often, this is specifically the measurement of rheology, coupling personal interests in electronics and mechanical engineering to create new instrumentation approaches. Richard has particular interests in the challenges of studying extensional (stretching) flows as well, a critical but not yet fully understood part of commodity plastics processing to lubrication flows and the handling of composites. The fellowship will develop and utilise a novel technique, allowing us to study for the first time how extensional flows affect apparent shear viscosity, a key part in better understanding so called “mixed” straining flows which occur in practical situations. This will unlock insights into improving materials processing design, particularly for next-generation materials.

Richard has broader interests in metrology / instrumentation challenges beyond those in fluid dynamics; typified by early spin coating visualisation work, the tensile tester project, and optical thermography development during the EEE post. Speculative contact from the wider community is welcomed.