Anthony Kinloch is the acknowledged world leader in the science and technology of adhesion — the study of how dissimilar materials cling to one another. His work spans a wide range of disciplines, including the joining of different surfaces in chemistry and investigating why fractures occur at joints.

His key contributions include a technique for bonding thermoplastic composites — plastics that are processed using heat — and pioneering the use of rubber to toughen heat-activated adhesives. In addition, Anthony analysed the process of fracturing as part of efforts to characterise the toughness of adhesives and also investigated the mechanics of peeling.

In 2012, Anthony retired from Imperial College London after enjoying a 28-year career at the institution. His last five years were spent as Head of its Department of Mechanical Engineering, and he continues his association with the department as a Senior Research Investigator. Over the course of his career, he has written several textbooks for his field and published hundreds of papers.