Octopus helps conduct research into clean energy production methods such as solar cells and the potential for artificial photosynthesis.

We also facilitate research into environmental concerns such as pollution. Airborne pollution has long been established as a major issue for the health of people, animals and plants. However, more needs to be understood about what is remaining in the air, for how long, and its potential effects on the environment.

Techniques such as optical trapping give us the ability to study aerosolised pollution without affecting the natural structure of the particle. Scientists and users at Octopus have studied the impact of cooking oils as airborne pollutants, helped map the makeup of airborne particles across the globe, and shown evidence that diesel fuel particles can cross the Blood-Brain Barrier.

As with all CLF facilities, Octopus conducts and facilitates an array of fundamental research. This helps us answer the seemingly small, niche questions important to advancing our knowledge of a field in general, and to create the foundations on which breakthroughs could one day stand.