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Professor John F Watts

Professor of Materials Science, Director of Research, Director of Surrey Materials Institute (SMI)

Qualifications: PhD DSc DUniv (Paris) CEng FIM FInstP CPhys

Email:
Phone: Work: 01483 68 9617
Room no: 02 AB 03

Further information

Research Interests

  • Application of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to materials science
  • Application of time of flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) to materials science
  • Cathodic delamination of organic coatings and in adhesive joints
  • Organic coatings for corrosion prevention
  • Adhesive bonding for aerospace and automotive applications
  • Surface modification of polymers
  • Environmentally friendly pretreatments for adhesive bonding
  • High energy XPS
  • Acid-base interactions in adhesion

Publications

Journal articles

  • Jesson DA, Watts JF. (2012) 'The Interface and Interphase in Polymer Matrix Composites: Effect on Mechanical Properties and Methods for Identification'. Taylor & Francis Polymer Reviews, 52 (3-4), pp. 321-354.
    doi: 10.1080/15583724.2012.710288
  • Bright NJ, Webb R, Hinder SJ, Kirkby KJ, Ward NI, Watts JF, Bleay S, Bailey MJ. (2012) 'Determination of the deposition order of overlapping latent fingerprints and inks using Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS).'. American Chemical Society Anal Chem, 84 (9), pp. 4083-4087.
    doi: 10.1021/ac300185j
  • Adhami S, Abel M-L, Watts JF, Lowe C. (2012) 'Failure of a Waterborne Primer Applied to Zinc Coated Steel'. Surface and Interface Analysis,
    doi: 10.1002/sia.4837
  • Wilson P, Lekakou C, Watts JF. (2012) 'A comparative assessment of surface microstructure and electrical conductivity dependence on co-solvent addition in spin coated and inkjet printed poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulphonate (PEDOT:PSS)'. Elsevier Organic Electronics, 13 (3), pp. 409-418.
    doi: 10.1016/j.orgel.2011.11.011
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712189/
  • Shimizu K, Abel M-L, Phanopoulos C, Holvoet S, Watts JF. (2012) 'The characterisation of the interfacial chemistry of adhesion of rigid polyurethane foam to aluminium'. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE, 47 (2), pp. 902-918.
    doi: 10.1007/s10853-011-5871-3
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712191/
  • Kochur AG, Ivanova TM, Hinder SJ, Watts JF, Sidorov AA, Kiskin MA, Novotortsev VM, Eremenko IL. (2011) 'X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study of electron and spatial structure of mono- and binuclear Ni(II) carboxylate complexes with nitrogen-containing ligands'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV JOURNAL OF ELECTRON SPECTROSCOPY AND RELATED PHENOMENA, 184 (8-10), pp. 501-507.
    doi: 10.1016/j.elspec.2011.08.005
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712193/

    Abstract

    Ni3s, Ni3p and Ni2p x-ray photoelectron spectra of mono-and binuclear carboxylate complexes of nickel with various geometry of metal ions environment are obtained. The spectra are calculated in an isolated ion approximation. The dependence of the spectral profiles and the structure of the charge-transfer satellites on the structure of the immediate environment of nickel atoms is established. The data obtained support the results of X-ray diffraction and magnetic studies.

  • Grilli R, Abel ML, Baker MA, Dunn B, Watts JF. (2011) 'The adsorption of an epoxy acrylate resin on aluminium alloy conversion coatings'. Elsevier International Journal of Adhesion and Adhesives, 31 (7), pp. 687-694.
    doi: 10.1016/j.ijadhadh.2011.06.010
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/7524/

    Abstract

    A thermodynamic study of the adsorption of an epoxy acrylate resin used for UV-cured coatings on two different anticorrosion pretreatments on aluminium alloys relevant to aerospace industry has been undertaken. Aluminium alloy Al2219 specimens, treated with an inorganic chromate based conversion coating (Alodine 1200S) and an organic titanium based conversion coating (Nabutan STI/310), were immersed in solutions of different concentrations of the resin and adsorption isotherms were determined by assessing the uptake of the adsorbate, as a function of solution concentration, by time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). The results show different behaviour for the two substrates, which can be attributed to the organic component of the titanium based coating. In the case of the inorganic conversion coating a clear plateau is achieved at relatively low concentrations and at a lower level of adsorption than for the hybrid coating. The data for both the coatings conform well to the Langmuir model, the organic coating, as well as showing a higher level of adsorption of the resin, also presents oscillatory behaviour at low concentration, which is shown to be complementary to the behaviour of the reactive diluent included with the epoxy acrylate to aid processing. A discussion of this competitive adsorption of the epoxy resin and the diluent on the different substrates is presented, based on considerations of the chemistry of the systems under investigation.

  • Duncan LA, Labeed FH, Abel ML, Kamali A, Watts JF. (2011) 'Effects of thermal treatments on protein adsorption of Co-Cr-Mo ASTM-F75 alloys.'. J Mater Sci Mater Med, United States: 22 (6), pp. 1455-1464.
    doi: 10.1007/s10856-011-4324-5
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712192/

    Abstract

    Post-manufacturing thermal treatments are commonly employed in the production of hip replacements to reduce shrinkage voids which can occur in cast components. Several studies have investigated the consequences of these treatments upon the alloy microstructure and tribological properties but none have determined if there are any biological ramifications. In this study the adsorption of proteins from foetal bovine serum (FBS) on three Co-Cr-Mo ASTM-F75 alloy samples with different metallurgical histories, has been studied as a function of protein concentration. Adsorption isotherms have been plotted using the surface concentration of nitrogen as a diagnostic of protein uptake as measured by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The data was a good fit to the Langmuir adsorption isotherm up to the concentration at which critical protein saturation occurred. Differences in protein adsorption on each alloy have been observed. This suggests that development of the tissue/implant interface, although similar, may differ between as-cast (AC) and heat treated samples.

  • Zhang WR, Hinder SJ, Smith R, Lowe C, Watts JF. (2011) 'An investigation of the effect of pigment on the degradation of a naturally weathered polyester coating'. SPRINGER JOURNAL OF COATINGS TECHNOLOGY AND RESEARCH, 8 (3), pp. 329-342.
    doi: 10.1007/s11998-010-9305-y
  • Grilli R, Baker MA, Castle JE, Dunn B, Watts JF. (2011) 'Corrosion behaviour of a 2219 aluminium alloy treated with a chromate conversion coating exposed to a 3.5% NaCl solution'. Elsevier Corrosion Science, 53 (4), pp. 1214-1223.
    doi: 10.1016/j.corsci.2010.12.006
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/7526/

    Abstract

    This study investigates the formation of a chromate conversion coating at Al–Cu–Fe–Mn intermetallic sites of an Al2219 alloy and the corrosion initiation at these sites in a 3.5% NaCl solution, using SEM, AES and EDX. Changes in the surface chemistry were monitored after progressive exposures to the solution up to 42 h. The coating was found to be thinner and more defective on the intermetallic. Initially, Al is dissolved and Al(OH)3 deposited on and around the intermetallic. After 42 h of exposure, Al(OH)3, Fe and Mn oxides and small particles of elemental Cu are deposited as corrosion products.

  • Marino P, Lowe C, Abel M-L, Watts JF. (2011) 'The adsorption of an UV-curable resin on hot-dip galvanized steel: a ToF-SIMS study'. WILEY-BLACKWELL SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 43 (1-2), pp. 420-422.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.3476
  • Sano N, Abel M-L, Watts JF. (2011) 'The transfer of organics onto glass studied by ToF-SIMS'. WILEY-BLACKWELL SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 43 (1-2), pp. 423-426.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.3632
  • Shimizu K, Phanopoulos C, Loenders R, Abel M-L, Watts JF. (2010) 'The characterization of the interfacial interaction between polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate and aluminum: A ToF-SIMS and XPS study'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 42 (8), pp. 1432-1444.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.3586
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712194/

    Abstract

    Time of flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) have been employed to study the interfacial interaction between polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (PMDI) and aluminium produced by the deposition of a thin PMDI layer on the aluminium, in order to improve adhesion and/or abhesion performance. When the PMDI concentration increases, the intensity ratio fragments indicative of the reaction product with water (m/z = 106 u: C7H8N+) to that of isocyanate group (m/z = 132 u: C8H6NO+) decreases. A very thin MDI layer on oxidised aluminium samples exhibits lower 106/132 ratio than degreased samples as a result of less hydroxide/hydroxyl spices on the surface. This suggests that water reactions occur both at the surface of PMDI and at the PMDI/aluminium interface. The variation of the PMDI chemistry has also been studied by exposing PMDI treated samples to the air for various periods of time (a few hours to 14 days), in order to assess the reaction of the PMDI surface and PMDI/aluminium interface. At the interface, the yield of reaction with water is limited because of the finite amount of hydroxyl groups on the aluminium surface, and the water reaction is completed in a short period of time. However, the PMDI surface continues to react with water from the atmospheric. This methodology was also used to establish the presence of specific interactions at the PMDI/aluminium interface, and a fragment indicative of covalent bond formation between PMDI and aluminium (AlCHNO3-) is observed at the interface.

  • Watts JF. (2010) 'The potential for the application of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy in forensic science'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 42 (5), pp. 358-362.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.3192
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712198/

    Abstract

    The potential for the use of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) in forensic science is reviewed, taking as a starting point a series of examples and case histories this review speculates on other areas where XPS may be able to make a contribution. The topics that are considered include chemical speciation of fingerprints, thin layers deposited on substrates as a result of explosions and/or fire, particulate materials and cosmetics and finally sequestration of marker elements and molecules on surfaces. It is concluded that XPS has much to offer the forensic science community but investigations may be hampered by the need to compare crimes scene specimens with known standards. Until this issue is addressed it is likely that XPS will continue to be used on an ad hoc basis for particularly challenging specimens in high profile cases.

  • Ho R, Hinder SJ, Watts JF, Dilworth SE, Williams DR, Heng JYY. (2010) 'Determination of surface heterogeneity of D-mannitol by sessile drop contact angle and finite concentration inverse gas chromatography'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICS, 387 (1-2), pp. 79-86.
    doi: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2009.12.011
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/713367/
  • Bertho J, Stolojan V, Abel M-L, Watts JF. (2010) 'The effect of silane incorporation on a metal adhesive interface: A study by electron energy loss spectroscopy'. PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD MICRON, 41 (2), pp. 130-134.
    doi: 10.1016/j.micron.2009.10.001
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712195/
  • Hinder SJ, Watts JF. (2010) 'SIMS fingerprint analysis on organic substrates'. WILEY-BLACKWELL SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, Antalya, TURKEY: 42 (6-7), pp. 826-829.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.3497
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/713366/
  • Grilli R, Watts JF, Baker MA, Dunn B. (2010) 'Localised corrosion on 2219 aluminium alloy coated with a titanium based conversion coating'. SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 42 (6-7), pp. 610-615.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.3318
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/28864/
  • Abel M-L, Dahaghi MA, Watts JF, Slark A, White RG, Mack P, Grant E. (2010) 'Effect of flame treatment on formulated polyvinylchloride surface: A study using ARXPS'. Journal of Electron Spectroscopy and Related Phenomena, 178-179 (C), pp. 409-414.
    doi: 10.1016/j.elspec.2009.10.002
  • Baer DR, Lea AS, Geller JD, Hammond JS, Kover L, Powell CJ, Seah MP, Suzuki M, Watts JF, Wolstenholme J. (2010) 'Approaches to analyzing insulators with Auger electron spectroscopy: Update and overview'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV JOURNAL OF ELECTRON SPECTROSCOPY AND RELATED PHENOMENA, 176 (1-3), pp. 80-94.
    doi: 10.1016/j.elspec.2009.03.021
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712199/

    Abstract

    This paper provides an updated overview, intended to be of practical value to analysts, of methods that can be applied to minimize or control the build-up of near-surface electrical charge during electron-induced Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). Although well-developed methods can be highly effective, dealing with insulating or ungrounded samples for which high spatial resolution is needed remains a challenge. Examples of the application of methods involving low-energy ion sources and sample thinning using a focused ion beam that can allow high-resolution measurements on a variety of samples are highlighted. The physical bases of newer and traditional methods are simply described along with strengths and limitations of the methods. Summary tables indicate methods that can be applied to most AES spectrometers, methods that require special instrumental capabilities and methods that require special sample preparation or mounting.

  • Grilli R, Baker MA, Castle JE, Dunn B, Watts JF. (2010) 'Localized corrosion of a 2219 aluminium alloy exposed to a 3.5% NaCl solution'. PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD CORROSION SCIENCE, 52 (9), pp. 2855-2866.
    doi: 10.1016/j.corsci.2010.04.035
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/28863/
  • Abel M-L, Watts JF. (2009) 'Examination of the interface of a model adhesive joint by surface analysis: a study by XPS and ToF-SIMS'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 41 (6), pp. 508-516.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.3055
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712196/

    Abstract

    Model samples of the interface of an adhesive joint containing small levels of aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APS) have been prepared in order to examine the interface formed with an aluminium substrate. X-ray photoelectron (XPS) and time of flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) has been used to analyse and image the interface region in between the aluminium and an epoxy adhesive in order to ascertain the reactions by the organosilane, present as a minor component within the system. It was found that APS was present at the interface between the adhesive and the substrate and that it had reacted with the substrate forming a covalent bond and was also crosslinked within the adhesive. Evidence of near to full hydrolysis of APS is also present within the spectra.

  • Abel ML, Shimizu K, Holliman M, Watts JF. (2009) 'Peak-fitting of high resolution ToF-SIMS spectra: a preliminary study'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 41 (4), pp. 265-268.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.3036
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712197/

    Abstract

    Peak-fitting has been performed on a series of peaks obtained by ToF-SIMS analysis in order to assess whether information may be obtained from this procedure on the samples’ characteristics. A variety of samples were examined including a range of treatments for aluminium leading to different surface roughnesses, polymer films with a range of polydispersities, molecular weight and thicknesses as well as aluminium samples with adsorbed adhesion promoters on the surface. Variation of peak-fitting was assessed by varying the peak intensity, full width at half maximum and peak asymmetry. Although further studies are needed it is possible to say that the peak width increases with roughness whereas peak asymmetry seems to be related to oxide thickness. Polymer characteristics do not seem to influence the width whereas the peak asymmetry increases either versus molecular weight or polydispersity. A possible assumption is that the peak asymmetry relates to the ion formation processes. Additional work with varying polymer films thickness indicates that both FWHM and peak asymmetry may be related to sample charging and this could be used for assessment of film thicknesses. Finally, peak-fitting was used to obtain a more reliable peak area when peaks are too close in mass to use current methods.

  • Watts JF. (2009) 'Microbeam analysis applied to adhesion, surfaces and interfaces'. SPRINGER WIEN MICROCHIMICA ACTA, 164 (3-4), pp. 379-385.
    doi: 10.1007/s00604-008-0070-x
  • Wood AR, Abel M-L, Smith PA, Watts JF. (2009) 'Chemical Characterisation of the Fracture Surfaces of Polyester Resin and a Polyester-Based Nanocomposite'. BRILL ACADEMIC PUBLISHERS JOURNAL OF ADHESION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 23 (5), pp. 689-708.
    doi: 10.1163/156856108X379173
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712200/
  • Wood AR, Benedetto N, Hooker N, Scullion E, Smith PA, Watts JF. (2008) 'Development of an automated in situ fracture stage for a ToF-SIMS system'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 40 (10), pp. 1409-1414.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.2893
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712201/
  • Grilli R, Baker MA, Dunn B, Watts JF. (2008) 'Failure characteristics of adhesively bonded aluminium for spacecraft applications'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 40 (3-4), pp. 132-136.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.2793
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712202/
  • Bland DJ, Kinloch AJ, Stolojan V, Watts JF. (2008) 'Failure mechanisms in adhesively bonded aluminium: an XPS and PEELS study'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 40 (3-4), pp. 128-131.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.2651
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712203/
  • Marino P, Lowe C, Abel M-L, Watts JF. (2008) 'Surface characterization of polyester resins formulated with different cross-linking agents'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 40 (3-4), pp. 137-141.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.2767
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712205/

    Abstract

    Coil Coating is an industrial process widely used to apply a paint layer to metal coil stock, in order to improve the resistance to corrosion as well as the aestetics of the surface. Three thermally cured coatings, formulated on a low Tg ispophtalic based polyester, were investigated by XPS and ToF-SIMS. A model formulation was employed for all three coatings investigated, however, the crosslinking agents used were varied for each formulation. Hexamethoxymethyl melamine (HMMM), tris isocyanurate (TIC) and a combination of HMMM and TIC were included as the cross linking agents in the three coating formulations. The use of TIC alone required a Sn based catalyst to promote the curing reaction. The aim of this work was to investigate the difference in the surface composition of the three coatings and the different behaviour of the different crosslinking agents used. This was in preparation for further studies which will involve interfacial analysis in order to elucidate the mechanism behind intercoat adhesion. The XPS analysis of the air/coating surfaces revealed a nitrogen concentration consistent with the concentration expected from the formulation for the coating containing HMMM. In the other two formulations a lower concentration then that calculated from the formulation was observed. The surface concentration of the two crosslinking agents is not influenced by the presence of the others, indeed the formulation containing both crosslinking agents is, in term of nitrogen concentration, merely a simple combination of the other two coatings. Peaks diagnostic of the cross linking agents were observed in ToF-SIMS spectra acquired from the air/coating surfaces. The coating with HMMM revealed peaks not present on the coating with TIC and vice versa, however the coating with a combination of HMMM and TIC showed all the peaks, with different relative intensities. In the positive spectrum of the sample with TIC the characteristic pattern of the tin catalyst can be observed. By XPS and ToF-SIMS analysis, we have been able to determinate that the HMMM and the TIC have a different distribution on the coating/air surface. Their distribution is not affected by the presence of the other crosslinking agent.

  • Diplas S, Avice M, Thogersen A, Christensen JS, Grossner U, Svensson BG, Nilsen O, Fjelivag H, Hinderc S, Watts JF. (2008) 'Interfacial studies of Al2O3 deposited on 4H-SiC(0001)'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 40 (3-4), pp. 822-825.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.2787
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712204/

    Abstract

    Al2O3 films deposited on 4H-SiC(0001) by atomic layer deposition (ALD) were characterized by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The effect of medium and high temperature (873, 1273 K) annealing on samples with oxide thicknesses of 5-8nm and 100-120nm was studied. XPS indicated presence of a thin (~1nm) SiOx layer on the as-grown samples which increased to ~3 nm after annealing above crystallization temperature (1273 K) in Ar atmosphere. Upon annealing the stoichiometry of the interfacial oxide approaches that of SiO2. HRTEM showed that the thickness of the interfacial oxide formed after annealing at 1273 K was not uniform. No significant increase in the thickness of the interfacial oxide, was observed after annealing at 873 K in a N2 (90%) / H2 (10%) atmosphere.

  • Hinder SJ, Watts JF, Simmons GC, Lowe C. (2008) 'An investigation of the distribution of minor components in complex polymeric paint formulations using ToF-SIMS depth profiling'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 40 (3-4), pp. 436-440.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.2712
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/713365/
  • Lekakou C, Kontodimopoulos I, Murugesh AK, Chen YL, Jesson DA, Watts JF, Smith PA. (2008) 'Processability studies of silica-thermoset polymer matrix nanocomposites'. JOHN WILEY & SONS INC POLYMER ENGINEERING AND SCIENCE, 48 (2), pp. 216-222.
    doi: 10.1002/pen.20815
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712206/

    Abstract

    The aim of this study is to investigate the processability of silica-thermoset polymer matrix nanocomposites in terms of dispersion of silica nanoparticles and their effect on curing. Two thermosetting resins were considered, an epoxy and a polyester resin, with 5 % silica, although 1% silica was also used in preliminary studies in the polyester system. Various combinations of mechanical mixing and sonication were investigated for the dispersion of silica nanoparticles under different processing conditions and times in solvent-free and solvent-containing systems. It was found that the best dispersion route involved a solvent-aided dispersion technique. Consequently, different procedures for the solvent removal were investigated. Optical microscopy and SEM were used to characterize the resulting nanocomposites. DSC and rheological DMTA tests demonstrated that the silica nanoparticles shorten the gel time and promote curing in these thermosetting systems.

  • Thogersen A, Diplas S, Mayandi J, Finstad T, Olsen A, Watts JF, Mitome M, Bando Y. (2008) 'An experimental study of charge distribution in crystalline and amorphous Si nanoclusters in thin silica films'. AMER INST PHYSICS JOURNAL OF APPLIED PHYSICS, 103 (2) Article number ARTN 024308
    doi: 10.1063/1.2832630
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/269/
  • Shimizu K, Abel M-L, Watts JF. (2008) 'Evaluation of the interaction and adsorption of gamma-glycidoxy propyl trimethoxy silane with grit-blasted aluminium: A ToF-SIMS and XPS study'. TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD JOURNAL OF ADHESION, 84 (8), pp. 725-741.
    doi: 10.1080/00218460802352900
  • Abel M-L, Watts JF. (2008) 'Influence of Temperature on Aminosilane Thin Films Deposited on Aluminium Substrates: A Study by Surface Analysis'. TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD JOURNAL OF ADHESION, 84 (10), pp. 849-873.
    doi: 10.1080/00218460802445274
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712207/

    Abstract

    Thin films of aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APS) have been deposited on grit-blasted aluminium and dried at four different temperatures: room temperature (RT), 50, 93 and 120°C respectively. These specimens were prepared in order to assess the occurrence of the three important reactions known to take place when using silanes as films and/or primers: hydrolysis in the absence of water, condensation with the substrate, i.e. covalent bond formation and crosslinking or self-condensation. Analyses performed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) indicate that the films reduce in thickness with temperature and that the type of silicon bonding changes mostly above 50°C. Time of flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) reveals that covalent bonding of APS on aluminium occurs at all temperatures used in this study as well as showing that the films are close to being fully hydrolysed. It is also possible to assess the presence of crosslinking within the films.

  • Beamson G, Moslemzadeh N, Weightman P, Watts JF. (2008) 'AlK alpha and Cu K alpha(1) excited XPS of vanadium oxide and VF3 powders: Measurement of the V 1s-KLL Auger parameters'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV JOURNAL OF ELECTRON SPECTROSCOPY AND RELATED PHENOMENA, 162 (1), pp. 19-24.
    doi: 10.1016/j.elspec.2007.08.001
  • Moslemzadeh N, Beamson G, Diplas S, Tsakiropoulos P, Watts JF. (2008) 'Monitoring atomic level electronic changes in the alloying of stainless steels with Auger and photoelectron spectroscopy'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV SURFACE SCIENCE, 602 (1), pp. 216-225.
    doi: 10.1016/j.susc.2007.10.008
  • Lindsay B, Abel M-L, Watts JF. (2007) 'A study of electrochemically treated PAN based carbon fibres by IGC and XPS'. PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD CARBON, 45 (12), pp. 2433-2444.
    doi: 10.1016/j.carbon.2007.04.017
  • Hinder SJ, Lowe C, Watts JF. (2007) 'An XPS and ToF-SIMS investigation of the outermost nanometres of a poly(vinylidene difluoride) coating'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE SA PROGRESS IN ORGANIC COATINGS, 60 (3), pp. 255-261.
    doi: 10.1016/j.porgcoat.2007.07.016
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/738081/
  • Kinloch AJ, Korenberg CF, Tan KT, Watts JF. (2007) 'Crack growth in structural adhesive joints in aqueous environments'. SPRINGER JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE, 42 (15), pp. 6353-6370.
    doi: 10.1007/s10853-006-1181-6
  • Avice M, Diplas S, Thogersen A, Christensen JS, Grossner U, Svensson BG, Nilsen O, Fjellvag H, Watts JF. (2007) 'Rearrangement of the oxide-semiconductor interface in annealed Al2O3/4H-SiC structures'. AMER INST PHYSICS APPLIED PHYSICS LETTERS, 91 (5) Article number ARTN 052907
    doi: 10.1063/1.2757608
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/21/
  • Diplas S, Prytz O, Karlsen OB, Watts JF, Tafto J. (2007) 'A quantitative study of valence electron transfer in the skutterudite compound CoP3 by combining x-ray induced Auger and photoelectron spectroscopy'. IOP PUBLISHING LTD JOURNAL OF PHYSICS-CONDENSED MATTER, 19 (24) Article number ARTN 246216
    doi: 10.1088/0953-8984/19/24/246216
  • Hinder SJ, Lowe C, Watts JF. (2007) 'ToF-SIMS depth profiling of a complex polymeric coating employing a C-60 sputter source'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 39 (6), pp. 467-475.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.2546
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/738090/
  • Jesson DA, Smith PA, Hay JN, Watts JF. (2007) 'The effect of ormosil nano-particles on the toughness of a polyester resin'. SPRINGER JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE, 42 (9), pp. 3230-3237.
    doi: 10.1007/s10853-006-0231-4
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/104828/
  • Wood AR, Smith PA, Watts JF. (2007) 'The forensic study of single fibre pull-out specimens using ToF-SIMS'. VSP BV COMPOSITE INTERFACES, 14 (4), pp. 387-402.
    doi: 10.1163/156855407780452878
  • Kinloch AJ, Tan KT, Watts JF. (2006) 'Novel self-assembling silane for abhesive and adhesive applications'. TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD JOURNAL OF ADHESION, 82 (12), pp. 1117-1132.
    doi: 10.1080/00218460600998524
  • Moslemzadeh N, Beamson G, Tsakiropoulos P, Watts JF, Haines SR, Weightman P. (2006) 'Electronic structure of Ti metal and TiO2 powder studied by hard and soft (Cu K alpha(1) and AlK alpha 1) X-ray photoelectron and Auger spectroscopy'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV JOURNAL OF ELECTRON SPECTROSCOPY AND RELATED PHENOMENA, 152 (3), pp. 148-151.
    doi: 10.1016/j.elspec.2006.05.003
  • Moslemzadeh N, Beamson G, Tsakiropoulos P, Watts JF, Haines SR, Weightman P. (2006) 'The 1s XPS spectra of the 3d transition metals from scandium to cobalt'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV JOURNAL OF ELECTRON SPECTROSCOPY AND RELATED PHENOMENA, 152 (3), pp. 129-133.
    doi: 10.1016/j.elspec.2006.03.011
  • Jesson DA, Abel ML, Hay JN, Smith PA, Watts JF. (2006) 'Organic-inorganic hybrid nanoparticles: Surface characteristics and interactions with a polyester resin'. AMER CHEMICAL SOC LANGMUIR, 22 (11), pp. 5144-5151.
    doi: 10.1021/la053101p
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/104826/
  • Abel ML, Joannic R, Fayos M, Lafontaine E, Shaw SJ, Watts JF. (2006) 'Effect of solvent nature on the interaction of gamma-glycidoxy propyl trimethoxy silane on oxidised aluminium surface: A study by solution chemistry and surface analysis'. ELSEVIER SCI LTD INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADHESION AND ADHESIVES, 26 (1-2), pp. 16-27.
    doi: 10.1016/j.ijadhadh.2002.10.001
  • Abel ML, Allington RD, Digby RP, Porritt N, Shaw SJ, Watts JF. (2006) 'Understanding the relationship between silane application conditions, bond durability and locus of failure'. ELSEVIER SCI LTD INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADHESION AND ADHESIVES, 26 (1-2), pp. 2-15.
    doi: 10.1016/j.ijadhadh.2005.03.009
  • Rattana A, Abel ML, Watts JF. (2006) 'ToF-SIMS studies of the adsorption of epoxy resin molecules on organosilane-treated aluminium: Adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherms'. ELSEVIER SCI LTD INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADHESION AND ADHESIVES, 26 (1-2), pp. 28-39.
    doi: 10.1016/j.ijadhadh.2005.02.006
  • Moslemzadeh N, Beamson G, Tsakiropoulos P, Watts JF. (2006) 'Investigation of intrinsic plasmon energy losses associated with the Fe 1s core level in metallic iron'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV SURFACE SCIENCE, 600 (2), pp. 265-272.
    doi: 10.1016/j.susc.2005.10.049
  • Diplas S, Lehrmann J, Jorgensen S, Valand T, Watts JF, Tafto J. (2005) 'Characterization of Ni-B amorphous alloys with x-ray photoelectron and secondary ion mass spectroscopy'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 37 (5), pp. 459-465.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.2033
  • Pankhurst DA, Yuan Z, Nguyen-Manh D, Abel ML, Shao G, Watts JF, Pettifor DG, Tsakiropoulos P. (2005) 'Electronic structure and bonding in Mo3Si, Mo5Si3, and Mo(Si,Al)2 alloys investigated by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and density-functional theory'. AMERICAN PHYSICAL SOC PHYSICAL REVIEW B, 71 (7) Article number ARTN 075114
    doi: 10.1103/PhysRevB.71.075114
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/274/
  • Beamson G, Haines SR, Moslemzadeh N, Tsakiropoulos P, Watts JF, Weightman P, Williams K. (2005) 'Performance and application of a high energy monochromated CuK alpha(1) X-ray source for the electron spectroscopy of materials'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV JOURNAL OF ELECTRON SPECTROSCOPY AND RELATED PHENOMENA, 142 (2), pp. 151-162.
    doi: 10.1016/j.elspec.2004.10.008
  • Hinder SJ, Lowe C, Maxted JT, Watts JF. (2005) 'The morphology and topography of polymer surfaces and interfaces exposed by ultra-low-angle microtomy'. SPRINGER JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE, 40 (2), pp. 285-293.
    doi: 10.1007/s10853-005-6081-7
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/738089/
  • Hinder SJ, Lowe C, Maxted JT, Watts JF. (2004) 'A ToF-SIMS investigation of a buried polymer/polymer interface exposed by ultra-low-angle microtomy'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 36 (12), pp. 1575-1581.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1985
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/738080/
  • Watts JF, Rattana A, Abel ML. (2004) 'Interfacial chemistry of adhesives on hydrated aluminium and hydrated aluminium treated with an organosilane'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 36 (11), pp. 1449-1468.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1918
  • Perruchot C, Khan MA, Kamitsi A, Armes SP, Watts JF, von Werne T, Patten TE. (2004) 'XPS characterisation of core-shell silica-polymer composite particles synthesised by atom transfer radical polymerisation in aqueous media'. PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL, 40 (9), pp. 2129-2141.
    doi: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2004.02.013
  • Percy MJ, Amalvy JI, Randall DP, Armes SP, Greaves SJ, Watts JF. (2004) 'Synthesis of vinyl polymer-silica colloidal nanocomposites prepared using commercial alcoholic silica sols'. AMER CHEMICAL SOC LANGMUIR, 20 (6), pp. 2184-2190.
    doi: 10.1021/la035868s
  • Beamson G, Haines SR, Moslemzadeh N, Tsakiropoulos P, Weightman P, Watts JF. (2004) 'High-energy monochromated CuK alpha(1) x-ray source for electron spectroscopy of materials: initial results'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 36 (3), pp. 275-279.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1744
  • Korenberg CF, Kinloch AJ, Watts JF. (2004) 'Crack growth of structural adhesive joints in humid environments'. TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD JOURNAL OF ADHESION, 80 (3), pp. 169-201.
    doi: 10.1080/00218460490279233
  • Lowe C, Watts JF, Tegen N, Brown AM. (2003) 'Investigating the adsorption of components of an epoxy primer on to galvanised steel using ToF-SIMS'. SURFACE COATINGS INTERNATIONAL SURFACE COATINGS INTERNATIONAL PART B-COATINGS TRANSACTIONS, 86 (4), pp. 291-300.
    doi: 10.1007/BF02699502
  • Zafeiropoulos NE, Vickers PE, Baillie CA, Watts JF. (2003) 'An experimental investigation of modified and unmodified flax fibres with XPS, ToF-SIMS and ATR-FTIR'. KLUWER ACADEMIC PUBL JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE, 38 (19), pp. 3903-3914.
    doi: 10.1023/A:1026133826672
  • Seitz O, Chehimi MM, Cabet-Deliry E, Truong S, Felidj N, Perruchot C, Greaves SJ, Watts JF. (2003) 'Preparation and characterisation of gold nanoparticle assemblies on silanised glass plates'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV COLLOIDS AND SURFACES A-PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND ENGINEERING ASPECTS, 218 (1-3), pp. 225-239.
    doi: 10.1016/S0927-7757(02)00594-0
  • Percy MJ, Michailidou V, Armes SP, Perruchot C, Watts JF, Greaves SJ. (2003) 'Synthesis of vinyl polymer-silica colloidal nanocomposites via aqueous dispersion polymerization'. AMER CHEMICAL SOC LANGMUIR, 19 (6), pp. 2072-2079.
    doi: 10.1021/la020794q
  • Chen XY, Randall DP, Perruchot C, Watts JF, Patten TE, von Werne T, Armes SP. (2003) 'Synthesis and aqueous solution properties of polyelectrolyte-grafted silica particles prepared by surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization'. ACADEMIC PRESS INC ELSEVIER SCIENCE JOURNAL OF COLLOID AND INTERFACE SCIENCE, 257 (1) Article number PII S0021-9797(02)00014-0 , pp. 56-64.
    doi: 10.1016/S0021-9797(02)00014-0
  • Perruchot C, Watts JF, Lowe C, White RG, Cumpson PJ. (2002) 'Angle-resolved XPS characterization of urea formaldehyde-epoxy systems'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 33 (10-11), pp. 869-878.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1465
  • Watts JF. (2002) 'Special issue: Festschrift in celebration of the 65th birthday of Professor James E Castle - Preface'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 33 (10-11), pp. 773-774.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1473
  • Abel ML, Tsakiropoulos P, Watts JF, Matthew JAD. (2002) 'Free-electron metal alloys: a study by high-energy XPS'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 33 (10-11), pp. 775-780.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1453
  • Piao H, McIntyre NS, Beamson G, Abel ML, Watts JF. (2002) 'Electronic structures of Au-Al thin-film alloys by high-energy XPS and XANES'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV JOURNAL OF ELECTRON SPECTROSCOPY AND RELATED PHENOMENA, 125 (1) Article number PII S0368-2048(02)00040-3 , pp. 35-45.
    doi: 10.1016/S0368-2048(02)00040-3
  • O'Hare LA, Smith JA, Leadley SR, Parbhoo B, Goodwin AJ, Watts JF. (2002) 'Surface physico-chemistry of corona-discharge-treated poly(ethylene terephthalate) film'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 33 (7), pp. 617-625.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1429
  • Rattana A, Hermes JD, Abel ML, Watts JF. (2002) 'The interaction of a commercial dry film adhesive with aluminium and organosilane treated aluminium surfaces: a study by XPS and ToF-SIMS'. ELSEVIER SCI LTD INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADHESION AND ADHESIVES, 22 (3) Article number PII S0143-7496(01)00056-2 , pp. 205-218.
    doi: 10.1016/S0143-7496(01)00056-2
  • Diplas S, Tsakiropoulos P, Shao G, Watts JF, Matthew JAD. (2002) 'A study of alloying behaviour in the Ti-Al-V system'. PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD ACTA MATERIALIA, 50 (8) Article number PII S1359-6454(02)00038-1 , pp. 1951-1960.
    doi: 10.1016/S1359-6454(02)00038-1
  • Mitchell T, Diplas S, Tsakiropoulos P, Watts JF, Matthew JAD. (2002) 'Study of alloying behaviour in metastable Mg-Ti solid solutions using Auger parameter measurements and charge-transfer calculations'. TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD PHILOSOPHICAL MAGAZINE A-PHYSICS OF CONDENSED MATTER STRUCTURE DEFECTS AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES, 82 (4), pp. 841-855.
    doi: 10.1080/01418610110090918
  • Watts JF. (2002) 'Festschrift in celebration of the 60th birthday of Dr Martin P. Seah'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 33 (3), pp. 175-175.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1213
  • Loh WK, Crocombe AD, Wahab MMA, Watts JF, Ashcroft IA. (2002) 'The effect of moisture on the failure locus and fracture energy of an epoxy-steel interface'. VSP BV JOURNAL OF ADHESION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 16 (11), pp. 1407-1429.
    doi: 10.1163/156856102320252877
  • Percy MJ, Amalvy JI, Barthet C, Armes SP, Greaves SJ, Watts JF, Wiese H. (2002) 'Surface characterization of vinyl polymer-silica colloidal nanocomposites using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy'. ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY, 12 (3), pp. 697-702.
    doi: 10.1039/b109044p
  • Watts JF, Abel ML, Perruchot C, Lowe C, Maxted JT, White RG. (2001) 'Segregation and crosslinking in urea formaldehyde/epoxy resins: a study by high-resolution XPS'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV JOURNAL OF ELECTRON SPECTROSCOPY AND RELATED PHENOMENA, 121 (1-3), pp. 233-247.
    doi: 10.1016/S0368-2048(01)00337-1
  • Diplas S, Watts JF, Tsakiropoulos P, Shao G, Beamson G, Matthew JAD. (2001) 'X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies of Ti-Al and Ti-Al-V alloys using CrK beta radiation'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 31 (8), pp. 734-744.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1103
  • Arvanitis A, Diplas S, Tsakiropoulos P, Watts JF, Whiting MJ, Morton SA, Matthew JAD. (2001) 'An experimental study of bonding and crystal structure modifications in MoSi2 and MoSi2+xAl (x=10 to 40 at% Al) via Auger parameter shifts and charge transfer calculations'. PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD ACTA MATERIALIA, 49 (6), pp. 1063-1078.
    doi: 10.1016/S1359-6454(00)00383-9
  • Watts JF. (2001) 'The International Millennium Conference on Quantitative Surface Analysis: QSA-11 - 3-7 July 2000'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 31 (4), pp. 247-248.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.993
  • Diplas S, Watts JF, Morton SA, Beamson G, Tsakiropoulos P, Clark DT, Castle JE. (2001) 'Electron spectroscopy with CrK beta photons: high energy XPS and X-AES'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV JOURNAL OF ELECTRON SPECTROSCOPY AND RELATED PHENOMENA, 113 (2-3), pp. 153-166.
    doi: 10.1016/S0368-2048(00)00290-5
  • Ross GJ, Watts JF, Hill MP, Morrissey P. (2001) 'Surface modification of poly(vinylidene fluoride) by alkaline treatment Part 2. Process modification by the use of phase transfer catalysts'. ELSEVIER SCI LTD POLYMER, 42 (2), pp. 403-413.
    doi: 10.1016/S0032-3861(00)00328-1
  • Romero-Sanchez MD, Pastor-Blas MM, Martin-Martinez JM, Zhdan PA, Watts JF. (2001) 'Surface modifications of a vulcanized rubber using corona discharge and ultraviolet radiation treatments'. KLUWER ACADEMIC PUBL JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE, 36 (24), pp. 5789-5799.
    doi: 10.1023/A:1012999820592
  • Vamvakaki M, Billingham NC, Armes SP, Watts JF, Greaves SJ. (2001) 'Controlled structure copolymers for the dispersion of highperformance ceramics in aqueous media'. ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY, 11 (10), pp. 2437-2444.
    doi: 10.1039/b101728o
  • Prickett AC, Smith PA, Watts JF. (2001) 'ToF-SIMS studies of carbon-fibre composite fracture surfaces and the development of controlled Mode in situ fracture'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 31 (1), pp. 11-17.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.946
  • Vickers PE, Fitzpatrick MF, Boniface L, Watts JF. (2001) 'A small area XPS study of the fracture surface of a thermoplastic-modified CFRP'. KLUWER ACADEMIC PUBL JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE, 36 (9), pp. 2323-2327.
    doi: 10.1023/A:1017533225578
  • Barnes LM, Adams MR, Watts JF, Zhdan PA, Chamberlain AHL. (2001) 'Correlated XPS, AFM and bacterial adhesion studies on milk and milk proteins adherent to stainless steel.'. TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD BIOFOULING, 17 (1), pp. 1-+.
  • Chehimi MM, Abel ML, Watts JF, Digby RP. (2001) 'Surface chemical and thermodynamic properties of gamma-glycidoxy-propyltrimethoxysilane-treated alumina: an XPS and IGC study'. ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY, 11 (2), pp. 533-543.
    doi: 10.1039/b005227m
  • Ross GJ, Barradas NP, Hill MP, Jeynes C, Morrissey P, Watts JF. (2001) 'Rutherford backscattering spectrometry and computer simulation for the in-depth analysis of chemically modified poly(vinylidene fluoride)'. KLUWER ACADEMIC PUBL JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE, 36 (19), pp. 4731-4738.
    doi: 10.1023/A:1017979005467
  • Lowe C, Devos L, Lavaste V, Simmons GC, Watts JF. (2000) 'Performance of coil coating primers: A comparison of three complementary test methods'. FEDERATION SOC COATING TECH JOURNAL OF COATINGS TECHNOLOGY, 72 (909), pp. 135-144.
  • Alonso AM, Tascon JMD, Boudou JP, Chehimi M, Watts JF. (2000) 'Oxidation of short carbon fibers by oxygen plasma.'. AMER CHEMICAL SOC ABSTRACTS OF PAPERS OF THE AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY, 220, pp. U397-U397.
  • Abel ML, Rattana A, Watts JF. (2000) 'Interaction of epoxy analogue molecules with organosilane-treated aluminum: A study by XPS and ToF-SIMS'. AMER CHEMICAL SOC LANGMUIR, 16 (16), pp. 6510-6518.
    doi: 10.1021/la9915724
  • Khan MA, Armes SP, Perruchot C, Ouamara H, Chehimi MM, Greaves SJ, Watts JF. (2000) 'Surface characterization of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-coated latexes by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy'. AMER CHEMICAL SOC LANGMUIR, 16 (9), pp. 4171-4179.
    doi: 10.1021/la991390+
  • Watts JF, Leadley SR, Castle JE, Blomfield CJ. (2000) 'Adsorption of PMMA on oxidized Al and Si substrates: An investigation by high-resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy'. AMER CHEMICAL SOC LANGMUIR, 16 (5), pp. 2292-2300.
    doi: 10.1021/la981558b
  • Ross GJ, Watts JF, Hill MP, Morrissey P. (2000) 'Surface modification of poly(vinylidene fluoride) by alkaline treatment 1. The degradation mechanism'. ELSEVIER SCI LTD POLYMER, 41 (5), pp. 1685-1696.
    doi: 10.1016/S0032-3861(99)00343-2
  • Fitzpatrick MF, Ling JSG, Watts JF. (2000) 'Failure mechanism of phosphated adhesively bonded hot-dipped galvanized steel: a small-area XPS study'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 29 (2), pp. 131-138.
    doi: 10.1002/(SICI)1096-9918(200002)29:2<131::AID-SIA705>3.0.CO;2-7
  • Lavaste V, Watts JF, Chehimi MM, Lowe C. (2000) 'Surface characterisation of components used in coil coating primers'. ELSEVIER SCI LTD INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADHESION AND ADHESIVES, 20 (1), pp. 1-10.
    doi: 10.1016/S0143-7496(99)00004-4
  • Abel ML, Digby RP, Fletcher IW, Watts JF. (2000) 'Evidence of specific interaction between gamma-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane and oxidized aluminium using high-mass resolution ToF-SIMS'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 29 (2), pp. 115-125.
    doi: 10.1002/(SICI)1096-9918(200002)29:2<115::AID-SIA702>3.3.CO;2-Y
  • Abel ML, Rattana A, Watts JF. (2000) 'The interaction of gamma-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane with oxidised aluminium substrates: The effect of drying temperature'. GORDON BREACH SCI PUBL LTD JOURNAL OF ADHESION, 73 (2-3), pp. 313-340.
    doi: 10.1080/00218460008029311
  • Diplas S, Shao G, Tsakiropoulos P, Watts JF, Matthew JAD. (2000) 'Calculations of charge transfer in Mg- and Al-transition metal alloys using the Auger parameter'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, 29 (1), pp. 65-72.
    doi: 10.1002/(SICI)1096-9918(200001)29:1<65::AID-SIA694>3.0.CO;2-1
  • Vickers PE, Watts JF, Perruchot C, Chehimi MM. (2000) 'The surface chemistry and acid-base properties of a PAN-based carbon fibre'. PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD CARBON, 38 (5), pp. 675-689.
    doi: 10.1016/S0008-6223(99)00137-2
  • Vickers PE, Boniface L, Pricket A, Watts JF. (2000) 'The effect of siloxane-type molecules on the interlaminar toughness of CFRP'. ELSEVIER SCI LTD COMPOSITES PART A-APPLIED SCIENCE AND MANUFACTURING, 31 (6), pp. 559-569.
    doi: 10.1016/S1359-835X(99)00098-6
  • Diplas S, Tsakiropoulos P, Brydson RMD, Watts JF. (1999) 'Development of physical vapour deposited Mg-Zr alloys - Part 2 - Characterisation of corrosion products'. INST MATERIALS MATERIALS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 15 (12), pp. 1359-1372.
  • Watts JF, Castle JE. (1999) 'The determination of adsorption isotherms by XPS and ToF-SIMS: their role in adhesion science'. ELSEVIER SCI LTD INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADHESION AND ADHESIVES, 19 (6), pp. 435-443.
    doi: 10.1016/S0143-7496(98)00068-2

Conference papers

  • Diplas S, Moslemzadeh N, Watts JF, Beamson G, Tsakiropoulos P. (2010) 'An XPS study of the interatomic charge distribution in stainless steels'. WILEY-BLACKWELL SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, Antalya, TURKEY: 13th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Analysis 42 (6-7), pp. 722-725.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.3367
  • Rebord G, Hansrisuk N, Lindsay B, Lekakou C, Reed GT, Watts JF. (2008) 'Electrofunctional Polymer Nanocomposites'. IEEE ESTC 2008: 2ND ELECTRONICS SYSTEM-INTEGRATION TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE, VOLS 1 AND 2, PROCEEDINGS, Greenwich, ENGLAND: 2nd Electronics System-Integration Technology Conference, pp. 1401-1405.
  • Diplas S, Ulyashin A, Maknys K, Gunnaes AE, Jorgensen S, Wright D, Watts JF, Olsen A, Finstad TG. (2007) 'On the processing-structure-property relationship of ITO layers deposited on crystalline and amorphous Si'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE SA THIN SOLID FILMS, Crete, GREECE: 1st International Symposium on Transparent Conducting Oxides 515 (24), pp. 8539-8543.
    doi: 10.1016/j.tsf.2007.03.091
  • Hawtin PN, Abel M-L, Watts JF, Powell J. (2006) 'G-SIMS of thermosetting polymers'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE, Univ Manchester, Manchester, ENGLAND: 15th International Conference on Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS XV) 252 (19), pp. 6676-6678.
    doi: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2006.02.123
  • Boxshall K, Wu MH, Cui Z, Cui ZF, Watts JF, Baker MA. (2006) 'Simple surface treatments to modify protein adsorption and cell attachment properties within a poly(dimethylsiloxane) micro-bioreactor'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, Vienna, AUSTRIA: 11th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Anlaysis 38 (4), pp. 198-201.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.2274
  • Guichenuy M, Watts JF, Abel ML, Audenaert M. (2006) 'Mechanism of delamination of a polyamide coating modified with an aminosilane'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, Vienna, AUSTRIA: 11th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Anlaysis 38 (4), pp. 168-171.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.2213
  • Hinder SJ, Watts JF, Lowe C. (2006) 'Surface and interface analysis of complex polymeric paint formulations'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, Vienna, AUSTRIA: 11th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Anlaysis 38 (4), pp. 557-560.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.2325
  • Diplas S, Jorgensen S, Tafto J, Tonnessen T, Knutsen T, Lehrmann J, Valand T, Abel ML, Watts JF. (2006) 'Probing the electronic structure of Ni-X, (X = B, S, P) catalysts with XPS'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, Vienna, AUSTRIA: 11th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Anlaysis 38 (4), pp. 238-242.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.2322
  • Moslemzadeh N, Beamson G, Haines SR, Tsakiropoulos P, Watts JF, Weightman P. (2006) 'High-energy X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy with new monochromatised CuK alpha(1) X-rays; characteristics, capabilities and limitations'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, Vienna, AUSTRIA: 11th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Anlaysis 38 (4), pp. 703-706.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.2155
  • Rattana A, Abel ML, Watts JF. (2005) 'Degradation of interfacial chemistry of epoxy/silane/aluminium interfaces as a result of aqueous attack'. TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD JOURNAL OF ADHESION, Wilmington, NC: 27th Annual Meeting of the Adhesion-Society 81 (9), pp. 963-988.
    doi: 10.1080/00218460500222884
  • Sautrot M, Abel ML, Watts JF, Powell J. (2005) 'Incorporation of an adhesion promoter in a structural adhesive: Aspects of durability and interface chemistry'. TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD JOURNAL OF ADHESION, Wilmington, NC: 27th Annual Meeting of the Adhesion-Society 81 (2), pp. 163-187.
    doi: 10.1080/00218460590921995
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/712617/
  • Guichenuy M, Watts JF, Abel ML, Brown AM, Audenaert M, Amouroux N. (2004) 'Enhancement of the durability of a polyamide coating: incorporation of an aminosilane into the powder formulation'. WILEY-BLACKWELL SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, Berlin, GERMANY: 10th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Analysis (ECASIA 03) 36 (8), pp. 685-688.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1736
  • Moslemzadeh N, Watts JF, Tsakiropoulos P, Beamson G, Haines S, Weightman P. (2004) 'Optimization of x-ray monochromating systems: application to LiF(220) crystal with Johansson geometry for CuK alpha 1 (8047.78 eV)'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, Berlin, GERMANY: 10th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Analysis (ECASIA 03) 36 (8), pp. 1119-1121.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1854
  • Jesson DA, Abel ML, Arkhireeva A, Hay JN, Smith PA, Watts JF. (2004) 'Organic-inorganic hybrid nanoparticles: adsorption characteristics of polyester resins'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, Berlin, GERMANY: 10th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Analysis (ECASIA 03) 36 (8), pp. 765-768.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1759
    Full text is available at: http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/1663/
  • Hinder SJ, Watts JF, Lowe C. (2004) 'Interface analysis and compositional depth profiling by XPS of polymer coatings prepared using ultra-low-angle microtomy'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, Berlin, GERMANY: 10th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Analysis (ECASIA 03) 36 (8), pp. 1032-1036.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1830
  • Abel ML, Watts JF, Digby RP. (2004) 'The influence of process parameters on the interfacial chemistry of gamma-GPS on aluminium: A review'. TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD JOURNAL OF ADHESION, GLASGOW, SCOTLAND: 8th International Conference on the Science and Technology of Adhesion and Adesives 80 (4), pp. 291-312.
    doi: 10.1080/00218460490430252
  • Perruchot C, Watts JF, Lowe C, Beamson G. (2003) 'Characterisation of the curing temperature effects on polyester systems by angle-resolved XPS (ARXPS)'. ELSEVIER SCI LTD INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADHESION AND ADHESIVES, OXFORD BROOKES UNIV, OXFORD, ENGLAND: 40th Annual Conference on Adhesion and Adhesives 23 (2), pp. 101-113.
    doi: 10.1016/S0143-7496(02)00065-9
  • Whiting MJ, Stolojan V, Rattana A, Watts JF. (2003) 'Direct observation and characterisation of the oxide nanostructured interface resulting from organosilane pre-treatment of aluminium'. MATERIALS RESEARCH SOCIETY POLYMER/METAL INTERFACES AND DEFECT MEDIATED PHENOMENA IN ORDERED POLYMERS, BOSTON, MA: Symposium on Polymer/Metal Interfaces and Defect Mediated Phenomena in Ordered Polymers held at the 2002 MRS Fall Meeting 734, pp. 27-32.
  • Abel ML, Chehimi MM, Fricker F, Delamar M, Brown AM, Watts JF. (2002) 'Adsorption of poly(methyl methacrylate) and poly(vinyl chloride) blends onto polypyrrole - Study by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, time-of-flight static secondary ion mass spectroscopy, and inverse gas chromatography'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV JOURNAL OF CHROMATOGRAPHY A, IMPERIAL COLL, LONDON, ENGLAND: 1st international Conference on Inverse Gas Chromatography (ICICGC-1) 969 (1-2), pp. 273-285.
    doi: 10.1016/S0021-9673(02)00894-4
  • Church S, Harris SJ, Rattana A, Watts JF. (2002) 'Early stages of degradation of polysulphide sealants in an aqueous environment'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, AVIGNON, FRANCE: 9th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Analysis 34 (1), pp. 19-24.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1244
  • Perruchot C, Abel ML, Watts JF, Lowe C, Maxted JT, White RG. (2002) 'High-resolution XPS study of crosslinking and segregration phenomena in hexamethoxymethyl melamine-polyester resins'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, AVIGNON, FRANCE: 9th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Analysis 34 (1), pp. 570-574.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1362
  • Rattana A, Abel ML, Church S, Watts JF. (2002) 'Adsorption of polysulphide sealants onto organosilane-coated aluminium and aluminium substrates'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, AVIGNON, FRANCE: 9th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Analysis 34 (1), pp. 30-34.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1246
  • Abel ML, Tsakiropoulos P, Watts JF, Matthew JAD. (2002) 'Auger parameter studies of aluminium-transition metal alloys'. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS, AVIGNON, FRANCE: 9th European Conference on Applications of Surface and Interface Analysis 34 (1), pp. 360-364.
    doi: 10.1002/sia.1317
  • Watts JF, Abel ML. (2001) 'Surface analysis and adhesion: From locus of failure to interfacial chemistry'. ELECTROCHEMICAL SOCIETY INC STATE-OF-THE ART APPLICATION OF SURFACE AND INTERFACE ANALYSIS METHODS TO ENVIRONMENTAL MATERIALS INTERACTIONS: IN HONOR OF JAMES E. CASTLE'S 65TH YEAR, PROCEEDINGS, WASHINGTON, D.C.: International Symposium on State-of-the-Art Application of Surface and Interface Analysis Methods to Environmental Material Interaction held in Honor of James F Castle 2001 (5), pp. 80-91.
  • Kinloch AJ, Little MSG, Watts JF. (2000) 'The role of the interphase in the environmental failure of adhesive joints'. PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD ACTA MATERIALIA, SEVILLE, SPAIN: Acta Materialia Workshop on Ceramic and Biomaterial Interfaces: Designing for Properties 48 (18-19), pp. 4543-4553.
    doi: 10.1016/S1359-6454(00)00240-8
  • Lafon V, Brown A, Watts JF, Quisefit JP. (2000) 'Experimental protocol for surface analysis of airborne particles - Case of auto emissions'. E D P SCIENCES JOURNAL DE PHYSIQUE IV, ECOLE NATL SUPER ARTS & IND, STRASBOURG, FRANCE: Conference on X-Rays and Matter (RX 99) 10 (P10), pp. 265-273.
    doi: 10.1051/jp4:20001029
  • Ham AL, Yeomans JA, Watts JF. (1999) 'Effect of temperature and particle velocity on the erosion of a silicon carbide continuous fibre reinforced calcium aluminosilicate glass-ceramic matrix composite'. ELSEVIER SCIENCE SA WEAR, CHURCHILL COLL, CAMBRIDGE, ENGLAND: International Conference on Erosion, Abrasion and Wear 233, pp. 237-245.
    doi: 10.1016/S0043-1648(99)00222-7

Professional Activities

  • Editor in Chief, Surface and Interface Analysis (John Wiley & Sons Ltd)
  • International Steering Committee of ECASIA Conference Series
  • Editorial Board: International Journal of Adhesion and Adhesives
  • EPSRC College: Structural Materials
  • EPSRC Panel Member and Chairman
  • Organising Committee of SIMS XVI

Honours and Awards

  • Redland Prize (1978)
  • Alcoa Foundation Award (1992)
  • Robert L Patrick Fellowship of The Adhesion Society Inc. (2006)
  • Award for Excellence in Adhesive Science from The Adhesion Society Inc. (2008)
  • British Vacuum Council Senior Prize and John Yarwood Memorial Medal (2008)
  • UK Surface Analysis forum Riviere Prize (2010)
  • DUniv: Docteur Honoris Causa, Universite' Paris Diderot (2011)

Current Research Programmes

  • The interphase chemistry of multi-component polymer to metal adhesion
  • Charge transfer and hybridisation in Al and Mg alloys
  • Interphase chemistry of adhesively bonded galvanised steel
  • Engineering the adhesion of polymer surfaces with organosilanes
  • Adsorption of organosilane molecules on metal surfaces and the relationship to adhesive joint performance
  • Environmentally friendly pretreatment of aluminum for space applications.
  • Nanomaterials for paints and adhesives
  • Reactive hot melt adhesives