This is the leading academic Group in Europe specialising in studies of physical and chemical surface interactions in the areas of information storage systems and plasma processing of semiconductors. In these areas their experience and equipment have led to both international recognition and significant industrial funding.

Data densities of magnetic recording systems are increasing at 130% per year, but this increase cannot be maintained without a knowledge of the complex recording head/media interactions. Research within the Group thus centres on studies of these interaction mechanisms and the surface changes within the various components which affect the drive towards these higher data densities. The work involves analysis and modelling.

In integrated semiconductor circuit technology, plasma processing gives increased control and precision, but can cause damage. This damage is being investigated by the Group. To understand the very complex processes occurring within plasmas and at the exposed surfaces, modeling of the interactions within the complex plasmas and subsequent plasma particle surface interactions is undertaken. This is a very significant issue within IT and semiconductor device processing.

Aims

The long-term aim of the members of the Group is to coordinate a range of topical and technology-oriented projects that interact with the modern electronics device industry, but also involve a high level of fundamental science. In realising this objective, the Group is aided by having a suite of, purpose-designed laboratories and back-up facilities to house its unique range of state-of-the-art instrumental facilities which have a capital value in excess of £2M. Included among these, for example, is a VG ESCALAB 200D surface analysis system, which is used both as a fundamental research tool, and to provide a more general analytical service.

Activities

The current research programme, which is supported by both national and international grants, is predominantly focused on projects concerned with the electronic properties of surfaces and interfaces. This work has resulted in many recent publications.

However, for the future, it is also planned to exploit the "joint" engineering-science nature of the Department, and to establish more collaborating links and projects with other research groups both within and outside the University. By this route, it is hoped to realise another important objective of the Group; namely to enhance the PG population through the establishment of additional postgraduate studentships that would lead to a further exploitation of the exceptional facilities and opportunities that can be offered by the Group.