School of Chemistry

Colour Science

Colour Science is at the forefront of academic and collaborative industrial research in Polymer Chemistry, Polymer Materials Science, Formulation and Delivery of Functional Complex Fluids, Organic Printed Electronics, Chemistry of Colorants, Colour Measurement and Imaging Science.

Knowledge generated by the staff in Colour Science has resulted in national and international awards and medals for outstanding individual contributions from learned societies. Many multinational companies and numerous small to medium enterprises have derived significant benefits through their interaction with Colour Science.

Research activities are presently grouped into three themes although extensive collaboration exists between these groups and with the wider research groups at the University of Leeds.

Polymer Chemistry and Surface Coatings Science
Our research interests are very broad and wide-ranging. Some examples of typical research topics include; synthesis and modification of dyes, pigments and polymers; functional polymers; UV and EB curing systems; polymerisation and polymer characterisation; thermochromism and photochromism; copolymers, polymer composites and blends; medical diagnostic sensor systems; physical chemistry of surface coatings; radiation effects on polymers; organic printed electronics; anti-counterfeit solutions; formulation and delivery of functional complex fluids [Jim Guthrie, Long Lin]; living polymerisation; macromolecules; supramolecular chemistry; functional nano-materials [Xiaosong Wang].

The Chemistry of Colorants and their Application Group
Are engaged in a broad portfolio of themed research areas, including:
photochromic dyes; thermochromic dyes; halochromic dyes and colour formers; new and alternative synthetic strategies to useful organic molecules [Chris Gabbutt, Mark Heron]; reactive dye synthesis and application; novel coloration methods for textile fibres; chemistry of dyes and fibres, cross-linking compounds to improve dye fixation; hair & cosmetic chemistry (hair dyes); analysis via capillary electrophoresis [Matthew Clark, David Lewis]; dye chemistry; colour and constitution; speciality dyes; colour change dyes; ink-jet colorants; dye photochemistry; dyes as sensitisers in cancer photodynamic therapy; dyes as photo-antimicrobial agents; novel characterisation techniques, monitoring reactions using analytical techniques; hair chemistry, treatment and characterisation [Kelvin Tapley].

The Colour and Imaging Science Group
Encompasses both pure research and highly successful industrial collaboration. Expertise includes: colour science (colour specification, colour difference evaluation, colour appearance modelling); imaging science (device characterisation, cross-media colour reproduction, colour management); colour and appearance measurement (metrology, digital imaging systems for measuring colour and appearance); colour communication (colour notation systems, digital communication of colorimetric data); computer graphics (visualisation of colour order systems, VR simulation); software development for industrial applications (ColourTalk, DigiEye) [Ronnier Luo, Jim Nobbs].