Prof John Liggat
Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry
University of Strathclyde
Prof John Liggat undertook his PhD research on polymer degradation chemistry at the University of Glasgow, followed by post-doctoral research on gas separation membranes at Heriot-Watt University before joining ICI in January 1989 as a Research Chemist at the Wilton Materials Research Centre. There his research centred on enhancing the suitability of high-performance thermoplastics such as PEEK and PPS for film, injection moulding and composite applications. He moved in 1991 to take up a position as Senior Polymer Scientist within the Biopolymers Group of ICI Bio Products and Fine Chemicals with the objective of improving the processability and properties of the innovative biodegradable packaging hydroxyalkanoate polymer, ‘BIOPOL’.
In 1994, he joined the University of Strathclyde where he is now Professor of Polymer Science and Technology. Building very much on his industry experience, his research group has major research interests across a wide spectrum of polymer physical chemistry and technology, including adhesion, crystallisation behaviour, physical ageing, thermal properties and fire retardancy, nanocomposite technology and polymer processing. He retains his interest in biodegradable polymers, particularly for packaging and biomedical applications. Much of his research is at higher TRL levels and is focused on solving specific problems for specific businesses, often supporting the manufacturing process. Recent research projects include industry-funded programmes on fire retarded polyurethane foams for the oil and gas sector, novel nutritional boluses for ruminant animals, and the scale-up of gelatin functionalisation chemistry for biomedical device manufacture.