Department of Chemistry
Research Impact Case Studies
Our research doesn't just have an impact in the academic world. These case studies show the wide ranging impact our research has:
Natural organic emissions and summertime UK air quality
Ozone in the lower atmosphere is a source of smog and reduces the lifespan those with respiratory problems: York research showed that the release of harmful substances but vegetation increases during heat waves resulting in increased formation of ozone. In response, forecasters have improved their air quality forecasts and government has changed its policies.
Find out more on UK air quality
Food Security, traceability and authentication
Methods originally developed for identification of animal remains in archaeology turn out to be extremely useful for identifying the animal species used in food and reveal that foods are not always as expected from the label.
Find out more on food security, traceability and authentication
Ozone-depleting substances in the atmosphere
The United Nations Montreal Protocol is designed to prevent the release of substances that may harm the ozone layer that protects us from ultraviolet radiation. York scientists have made critical measurements from satellites and from the Cape Verde Islands in mid-Atlantic that help to establish that the Montreal Protocol is working successfully.
Find out more on ozone-depleting substances
Short and long-acting insulins
Treatment with insulin is essential to the millions of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes: the study of the molecular structure of modified insulins has resulted in breakthroughs in insulin treatments and multibillion dollar sales for the collaborating company.