Prof Peter A Lovell - personal details

Peter Lovell graduated from UMIST with a BSc in Polymer Science and Technology (Chemistry) in 1977 and a PhD on the Synthesis of Poly(Arylene Sulphide)s in 1981. After three years leading the Polymer Science Research at Ilford Ltd., he returned to UMIST as a Lecturer. Following promotions to Senior Lecturer (1993) and Reader (1996), he was awarded a Personal Chair in Polymer Science (1999). In the years leading up to merger of the universities, he had an active role in the management of UMIST, where he was instrumental in developing the Foundation Studies activity (1999-2004) and was Dean of Teaching and Learning from 2002-4. He was the founding Chairman of the UK Polymer Colloids Forum and has recently completed a period as Chairman of Macro Group UK.

 

Peter's research has the underlying theme of controlling polymer structure and morphology in order to manipulate polymer properties. Studies of correlations between polymerisation process/conditions and the structure and molecular properties of the polymers produced underpin the research, most of which is concerned with materials of industrial importance and carried out in close collaboration with industry. Emulsion and miniemulsion polymerisation feature prominently, with a present focus on (i) control of branching and grafting, (ii) developing a novel crosslinking chemistry, (iii) living radical miniemulsion polymerisation, (iv) encapsulation of actives in latex particles, and (v) water-borne pressure-sensitive adhesives.