Multifunctional Sustainable Materials

Next-generation materials for energy and environmental sustainability.

The Multifunctional Sustainable Materials Group at Imperial College London is led by Dr Heather Au.

Our research interests are centred on the physico-chemical, mechanical and electrochemical behaviour of advanced multifunctional materials.

In our group, we design, synthesise, characterise and test next-generation materials that can address current and future challenges in energy and environmental sustainability.

Our approach involves materials and device optimisation through tailoring the chemistry and material structure at the nano- and microscales, in combination with advanced characterisation to gain fundamental understanding of how and why the materials behave as they do. Our work is underpinned by sustainable practices: employing renewable or waste materials and green manufacturing processes.

Our current research interests cover:

Beyond lithium-ion batteries to target high-performance energy storage,
Multifunctional membranes,
Sustainable materials for structural battery electrodes and electrolytes,
Sustainable carbon fibres from upcycled waste.

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Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI)

In the MSM group, we try to make science and engineering a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive space. We believe that the values of equity, diversity and inclusion are the foundations of building a healthy community that allows scientific excellence and innovation to flourish. We are therefore committed to fostering a safe and collaborative environment where every team member feels valued, respected and empowered to thrive. We recognise that EDI is an ongoing practice and welcome input and feedback on how we can enhance our efforts.