The performance and optimisation of heating and cooling systems using a nanofluid to promote heat transfer.

The University
London South Bank University has over one hundred years of experience in providing high quality education for all types of students. Founded in 1892 as the Borough Polytechnic, it merged in 1970 with four other colleges to become South Bank Polytechnic and was granted University status in 1992. In 2003 it adopted the name London South Bank University. The change of name is not merely cosmetic; it represents a mission to reposition the University to address London’s needs, allowing us to promote high quality education and research across the capital, the UK and global marketplaces. The University is a dynamic institution, internationally renowned for the vocational nature of its courses.

The Company
Hydromx International has developed a patented organic solution that has been shown in-situ to reduce energy consumption in closed-loop heating and cooling systems. Preliminary tests by LSBU using the proprietary nanofluid ‘Hydromx’ have demonstrated that an improved heat transfer response is achieved compared to the standard water and glycol solutions currently used in heating and cooling systems. Further experiments using ‘Hydromx’, combined with LBSU applied research expertise, will lead to a better understanding of the behaviour of nanofluids in this context. This has the potential to promote wider use of this approach to improving the efficiency of heating and cooling systems and thereby provide wide economic, environmental and social impacts.

The Project
A new and exciting PhD research opportunity to investigate the performance of heating and cooling systems when a nanofluid known as ‘Hydromx’ is used as the heat transfer medium. You will be working with Hydromx International and their UK distributor, PBA Energy Solutions Ltd.

At LSBU we have a proven track record in developing and delivering many applied research projects with great success. The PhD will follow a structured learning and work plan guided by a group of experienced academics and industrial advisors. The main aim of this research is to deliver a PhD with good contribution to knowledge that is of benefit to the field and the industrial partner.

The novelty of the work carried under the PhD programme will be in researching heating and cooling systems with nanofluids by executing the design, development and testing of a domestic heating and cooling simulation test facility. The test environment will include all the essential components required to evaluate the performance of ‘Hydromx’ and any subsequent variants. The PhD will also involve the analysis and evaluation of site and controlled test data. The ultimate goal is to establish the criteria for optimising the use of ‘Hydromx’ within the built environment and thereby achieve the maximum energy efficiency obtained by using such a nanofluid.

Selection Criteria
You should have a first or upper-second-class Honours degree or MSc in an appropriate engineering or science discipline with good knowledge of related engineering technologies. If English is not your first language, you should have IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

You will need to show a passion for research and understanding of the principles of operation of heating and cooling systems, as well as the overriding heat transfer theories and system design aspects. You must be competent in the use of MS office applications and familiar with at least one engineering simulation tool.

You will need to also show evidence of working to targets and demonstrate good communication and personal and project management skills. Ability to work both independently and flexibly with both industry-based and academic teams to deliver against a structured, timetabled programme will be considered during the interview.

This studentship is based on UK/EU home student fee. International students could apply, if they are able to provide evidence that they could cover the fee difference between home and international students’ fee.

Supervisory team
The successful candidate will be joining an active research team in this area under the supervision of Dr. Issa Chaer, Professor Graeme Maidment, Dr Zhihui Ye, Mrs Kika Yiakoumetti and industry supervisor Dr Andrew Eccleston, representing Hydromx International and PBA Energy Solutions

London South Bank University is a dynamic institution at the heart of London, only minutes away from the professional, social and cultural facilities of the capital.

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr. Issa Chaer on 0207 815 7149, email [Email Address Removed].

How to Apply
Please email Dr Issa Chaer on [Email Address Removed] for an application form.