Research and Development
Scientists and engineers at NOC are currently developing a number of technologies through commissioned Research and Development (R&D), funded by RCUK, EC and industry. These technologies span microsensors to large landers that can operate on the seabed for up to ten years. Technology being developed by scientists at NOC generally fit into the following categories.
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Lab-on-chip Sensors
Sensors able to measure a range of biogeochemical parameters including nutrients carbonate chemistry, trace metals, cells and nucleic acids. The sensors are designed to integrate with a range of autonomous vehicles.
See here for more information about sensors and instruments in development
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Other Sensors
We have a range of optical, radar, acoustic and pressure sensor systems for marine applications.
See here for more information about sensors and instruments in development
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Samplers
Gas tight water samples, trace metal and less than 2700bar. Particle samplers – neutrally buoyant sediment traps (PELAGRA) and microbiology sampler and nucleic acid preserver (MAPS).
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Landers
Ten-year duration deep-sea landers and communication systems landers for coastal and littoral zone.
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Wave-buoy
Used in the open ocean to measure breaking waves with millimetre resolution.
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Sediment Properties
Multi-wavelength optical backscatter.
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Telemetry
Acoustic telemetry for shallow and deep ocean use, BGAN and Iridium telemetry for remote areas.
Facilities
The National Oceanography Centre has a range of facilities available for the development and testing of marine equipment. These facilities are also available for external use on request.
For more information about the available to the marine science community at the NOC, visit Labs, Workshops and Testing Facilities.
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Laboratories
In Southampton, we have: Optics Laboratory, Calibration Laboratory, Bonding Laboratory, Sensors Workshop, Chemistry Laboratory, Ellsworth Laboratory and Electronics Laboratory.
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Molecular Laboratory (National Facility)
A well-equipped molecular biology and Class II microbiology national facility containing an Illumina MiSeq sequencer and a suite of analytical instrumentation, safety cabinets and isolators. Contact: Annika Simpson, Southampton.
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Pressure Testing Facility
The NOC offers pressure testing with temperature control (−10°C to 35°C) up to 690bar. Contact: Kevin Saw, Southampton
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Precision Engineering
Bespoke engineering solutions for shallow and deep ocean application Contact: Kevin Saw, Southampton, David Jones, Liverpool
