Dr Hughes’ research focuses on electromagnetic sensing & control, with specific interests in resonant inductive sensing, array technology, complex-data processing and inversion modelling, with applications in non-destructive testing & evaluation (NDT&E) of industrial components. He also has a growing interest in magnetic particle manipulation in microfluidic environments with applications in diagnostic healthcare technology.  A summary of Dr Hughes’ active research areas are given below.

For potential collaboration, postgraduate or postdoctorate opportunities, please contact Robert.hughes@bristol.ac.uk.

Inductive Sensing / Eddy-Current Testing

Inductive sensing, also known as eddy-current testing (ECT), is a highly-sensitive electromagnetic inspection technique used to non-destructively evaluate the electrical and magnetic properties of materials. Commonly used to detect damage, monitor manufacturing tolerances or evaluate component quality, ECT is integral to ensuring the safety and longevity of many industries.

Advanced manufacturing techniques, materials and processes for producing the next-generation of stronger, lighter or more durable industrial components all come with their own unique and demanding inspection challenges that must be solved.  It is on these challenges that my research focuses.

Current research activities include the development of novel technology and data-processing methodology for:

• Resonant sensing ECT – Near electrical resonance signal enhancement (NERSE)
• Novel array sensors
• Defect inversion modelling
• Carbon-fibre composite inspection & structural inversion

Magnetic Particle Manipulation

Development of bespoke magnetic field environments for rapid trapping and manipulation of magnetically-labelled particles on-chip.