Understanding flame synthesis of functional nanomaterials

Flame synthesis is a promising candidate for the production of functional nanomaterials with applications including energy storage, catalysis, sensor devices and carbon capture. It is a relatively simple and inexpensive single-step process that can be run continuously and has potential to produce a wide range of materials whose properties can be tuned by adjusting the flame conditions. The nanomaterials are formed due to the addition of a precursor material to the flame either as a vapour or liquid. The chemical and physical mechanisms involved in nanoparticle nucleation and growth are not well-understood at present. This leads to difficulties in predicting the conditions required to produce a nanomaterial with particular desired properties and means that there is no systematic way to scaleup reactors for bulk production. The proposed PhD project will attempt to address this challenge by using advanced laser diagnostic techniques to perform in situ measurements in a low-pressure flame reactor in which nanoparticulates are formed under well-controlled conditions. Techniques available in our lab include laser-induced incandescence, laser-induced fluorescence and cavity ring-down spectroscopy. Please contact Dr Iain Burns by email for further information.

Candidates should have an aptitude for creative experimental work and data analysis and a strong determination to understand and interpret new results. Previous experience of optical measurement techniques and/or combustion is advantageous but certainly not essential.