Dr Neil Furlong has made discoveries concerning the nature of thin organic films particularly those incorporating small semi-conductor particles, and on the surface properties of metal oxide particles. This work has had significant commercial outputs, including a de-emulsification process for explosives, a novel magnetic resin water filtration process, a hard surface cleaner and an adhesive for nylon.

He is a gifted manager who has led a team which produces both fundamental discoveries in surface science and large scale processes for water and sewage treatment.