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Our area of research is physical chemistry of interfaces, a multi-disciplinary field spanning the traditional disciplines of chemistry, physics, materials science and bio-engineering. In particular we focus on phenomena that occur when liquids are confined on the nano-scale, such as in microfluidics, and on designing surfaces that have advanced functional properties, such as superhydrophobic surfaces and patterned coatings. We are interested both in understanding fundamental physico-chemical mechanisms and in their application in bio- and nano-technology.

Research in the Neto group focuses on investigating liquid/solid interfaces on the nanoscale. Our current research revolves around 4 principal themes:

1. Nanotextured surfaces with anti-fouling and liquid-repellent properties
2. Pattern formation via thin film dewetting
3. Drag-reducing surfaces through control of interfacial slip
4. Self-assembled monolayers of perfluorinated molecules

The applications for our research themes are diverse and we partner with industrial collaborators locally and internationally on various projects. Our current projects in collaboration with industry are listed below:

1. Harvesting water from air without moving parts with our recently spun-out startup Dewpoint Ltd. (Founded 2022)
2. Antifouling properties of structured surfaces with MicroTau Pty Ltd (Defence Innovation Networks grants, 2018-2019)
3. Advanced additives for paint with Dulux Australia (funded by multiple Australian Research Council Linkage projects, 2011 – present)

Professor Chiara Neto
School of Chemistry
Building F11
The University of Sydney
NSW 2006 Australia

Phone: +61 2 9351 2752
Fax: +61 2 9351 3329
E-mail: chiara.neto@sydney.edu.au