A combined experimental and modelling investigation of novel reaction pathways for value-added chemicals synthesis from CO2 utilization

Supervisory Team:   Dr Syed Zaheer Abbas

Project description

One of the most pressing challenges world is confronting is the climate change mainly due to the global warming. Beside the natural phenomena, like the change in the intensity of radiation from the sun, the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere, mainly carbon dioxide (CO₂), are the key factors effecting the climate of the earth. Though, various technologies are in practice to capture the CO₂ emission, one of the most widely used approaches is carbon capture and storage (CCS), more commonly known as sequestration. The aim of the CCS technology is not only separating but also transporting and permanently storing the CO₂ in order to prevent its emission into the atmosphere. However, there are few disadvantages of CCS technologies like there is always a risk of CO₂ leakage from the CO₂ storage reservoirs. Therefore, a further research is ongoing in investigating an alternative approach to utilize the captured CO₂ rather than just storing it. This approach is carbon capture and utilization (CCU) where captured CO₂ is utilized to produce the values added chemicals like liquid fuels.

In the recent past, the conversion of CO₂ to the valued-added chemicals, like liquid fuels, via CO₂ hydrogenation has acquired more attention. However, this conversion pathway has not been widely in operation because of a number of technological concerns, including a lack of catalysts which possess satisfactory catalytic performance. Also, this pathway requires development of a dynamic model to investigate the performance of novel reaction pathway on industrial scale. In this PhD project, the main objective is to develop a combined experimental and modelling approach towards digitisation of CO₂ utilization technique to investigate and optimise the overall performance of the process.

This project will receive benefits from the state-of-the-art lab facilities including both experimental and characterization tools available at the University of Southampton. The selected candidate will work closely with a research group having expertise in experimental and modelling techniques that will support the deliverable and milestones to be achieved within the PhD time frame.

Entry Requirements

You need at least a UK 2:1 degree in Chemical Engineering or relevant subject

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 30 June 2023 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £18,622 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years.

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk). Select programme type (Research), 2023/24, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD Chemistry (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Dr Syed Zaheer Abbas.

Applications should include:

Research Proposal

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: [Email Address Removed]