Background
The International Institute for Nanocomposites Manufacturing (IINM), based in WMG at the University of Warwick, celebrated its 10th anniversary in November 2024. This milestone marked a decade of groundbreaking research and innovation in polymer processing and nanocomposite manufacturing. Engelmann & Buckham (E&B), a leading provider of laboratory equipment, has been a key partner to the IINM since 2019, contributing significantly to its rise as a global leader in polymer testing research.

About IINM
Established in 2014, the IINM explores polymer processing techniques to facilitate the scale-up and commercialisation of polymer nanocomposites. These materials are pivotal in enabling industries to innovate their manufacturing technologies, addressing applications across telecommunications, electronics, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, automotive, security, and medicine.
The IINM hosts the Nanocomposites Research Group, which employs a comprehensive approach to manufacturing nanocomposites. The Institute boasts advanced facilities, including:
- Characterisation Laboratories
- Wet Chemistry Laboratory
- Processing Hall
- Research Spaces and Offices
A dedicated team of 40 academics and researchers collaborate with industry partners, both nationally and internationally, on research projects that have broad industrial applications.
Equipment Contribution by E&B
E&B has supplied MonTech equipment and other laboratory tools that are pivotal to IINM’s operations and future planning. They have formed a strong relationship with the university.
“The consultative approach offered by E&B has allowed us to identify the most appropriate machine or instrument for the task in hand. This model is most useful as in many instances we require a broad specification, so instrument quality and versatility are key considerations. E&B and their partners have provided a capability that has helped the IINM achieve many of its goals over the last decade.” Tony McNally, Chair and Professor, University of Warwick.
Equipment supplied includes:
Offers unmatched precision in static and dynamic rubber analysis. Provides a wide shear rate range (0.001 Hz to 100 Hz) with advanced features for accurate torque, modulus, and viscosity readings.
- MonTech P-VS 3000 Sample Cutter
Ensures consistency in sample preparation.
Cuts polymer bales, blocks, and rubber sheets with precision.
- MonTech Fatigue Tester FT 3000 CH
Evaluates rubber compound durability under various conditions.
Facilitate mixing, blending, and testing of rubber compounds under varied temperature conditions.
Equipment Applications
IINM utilises these tools across diverse projects, catering to both academic research and industry-sponsored initiatives. Undergraduate and postgraduate students use the equipment daily, booking time slots to ensure smooth operation.
The MonTech D-RPA 3000 is indispensable for analysing the viscoelastic properties of polymers and elastomeric compounds before, during and after vulcanisation. This is an advanced instrument with a huge range of customisable options for demanding static & dynamic characterisation across a wide shear-rate & temperature range.
Key steps in material processing at IINM include:
- Designing Compounds: Utilising 10–20 chemical components to achieve specific end-use properties (e.g. strength, resilience).
- Mixing and Shaping: Conducted with tools like the Brabender mixer and 2 Roll Mill.
- Vulcanisation: Achieved under heat and pressure using a hot press.
- Testing Cured Compounds: Evaluating hardness, density, tensile strength, fatigue, and abrasion resistance.
Impact on Research
The equipment provided by E&B has revolutionised the research process at IINM:
- Enhanced Accuracy: Researchers report consistent and precise results.
- Adaptability: Equipment like the Fatigue Tester FT 3000 CH has been adapted for new experiments.
- Efficiency: The MonTech RPA is central to nearly all projects, emphasising its importance in the institute’s daily operations.
Student Feedback:
“The fatigue tester has been really useful for my studies… I’ve even been able to adapt it for new experiments as my research progresses.”
Mengtao Wang, Research Assistant, University of Warwick.
“I find the equipment really easy to use, and the results are consistent and accurate. We use a system to book onto the equipment and ensure we get a slot when needed.”
Xiao Hu, Research Assistant, University of Warwick.
Conclusion
The continued collaboration between E&B, MonTech, and the IINM exemplifies the synergy between academia and industry. E&B offer a unique range of equipment that has perfectly dovetailed with the goals of the IINM.
Tony McNally, Chair and Professor, IINM
“Our relationship with E&B has been central to our ability to deliver on a range of national and international projects. Critical to this success is having a direct line to Mark Galliver. Irrespective of timescales and deadlines, whether a quotation is needed or urgent assistance to repair an existing item of equipment, Mark and his team, without exception, go that extra mile to help where possible. In particular, the ongoing technical support that E&B arrange with suppliers has been excellent, most recently with the purchase of a Rubber Process Analyser from MonTech.”
By providing cutting-edge equipment and expertise, E&B has helped the IINM to maintain its status as a global leader in nanocomposite manufacturing research, ensuring that the next generation of researchers is equipped to push the boundaries of polymer science.
Contact Information
- Mark Galliver
Engelmann & Buckham
Email: mgalliver@buckham.co.uk
Website: www.buckham.co.uk
For more on IINM, visit:
warwick.ac.uk/fac/sci/wmg/research/research-areas/nanocomposites