UK Centre for Multimodal Correlative Microscopy and Spectroscopy (CoreMiS)

CoreMiS, funded by NERC and established by UKCEH, represents a substantial step forward in capabilities for UK environmental science. As a platform dedicated to the study of nanoparticles and nano-scale chemical reactions, it brings new technical scope for analysis at the nano-scale with greater detail and complexity than ever.

Access a single suite of equipment for combined analysis of environmental samples using techniques previously available only as stand-alone approaches.

CoreMiS brings together Raman Imaging and Spectroscopy with Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (RISE-EDS) as a single analytical suite. In a first for the UK, the suite can be used to analyse environmental specimens like sewage, soil and biological samples. With our existing infrared-based equipment, UKCEH will provide a world-leading centre for particulate pollutant detection and biogeochemical analysis by adding nano-meter scale capability.

CoreMiS offers a resource for UK environmental scientists undertaking a wide range of research. It can also support local laboratories and SMEs in the nanotechnology sector by providing material characterisation capacity.

To enhance employability, CoreMis will support periodic training of students through NERC Doctoral Training Partnerships and UKCEH Research Associates programme. This will provide early-career researchers with knowledge in the use of cutting-edge techniques relevant to several industries.

Research questions

Air quality

What is the composition of hazardous nanoparticles in the air? The biggest environmental threat in the UK is air pollution which is estimated to cause up to 36,000 premature deaths per year. RISE-EDS will provide a better characterisation of airborne nanomaterials for better air quality management. 

Nanoplastics science

What are the types of nanoplastics in tap water, natural waters and biological tissues and are they at concentrations that could cause harm? Use RISE-EDS to identify and quantify nanoplastics across diverse and complex environmental forms including drinking water, natural waters, arable soils, edible plants, indoor and outdoor air, and biological tissues. 

Nanoengineering

A new industrial revolution is being driven by nanotechnology, which makes materials more durable and effective. RISE-EDS will support the design of safe nano-enabled products (including nano-cosmetics, pesticides, and fertilisers) in the UK. The results of fibre toxicology studies will help industry to make decisions about the current and future use of fibres in commercial products.

Cell biogeochemistry

Around 12,000 people are estimated to die from antibiotic-resistant infections in the UK. What are the mechanisms of antimicrobial drug resistance and how can they be tracked from the environment to the clinic? RISE-EDS will help in the development of novel antibiotics.

Organic matter and macronutrients geochemistry

Protecting the world’s soil carbon stores could help offset up to 5.5 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases per year. What are the nanoscale processes that govern soil nutrients and carbon dynamics? RISE-EDS will help deliver the knowledge for soil resource management via better understanding of nanoscale processes.