Acoustic sensor to characterise gas mixtures

The speed of sound is a very accurate, fast and non-destructive method to determine fundamental properties of matter [1]. Caloric properties such as enthalpy and entropy require information about the ideal-gas molar isobaric heat capacity, precisely determined with an acoustic steady-state technique like the one proposed in this project. Acoustic virial coefficients on dilute gases will unveil fundamental relations at the molecular level. Transport properties as thermal conductivity and viscosity of the gas phase would also be enlightened by means of speed of sound absorption.

The PhD candidate will work with a cylindrical resonator, able to measure the speed of sound in a wide range of pressures and temperatures. This resonator was developed by Prof. Martin Trusler at Imperial College London. The candidate will design and build new acoustic sensors, gaining sound engineering knowledge, and provide new models for gas mixtures relevant in refrigeration engineering, climate change research, and gas sensing.

The successful candidate should have (or expect to achieve) a minimum of a UK Honours degree at 2.1 or above (or equivalent) in Engineering, Physics.

Essential background: Thermodynamics

Knowledge of: Design; acoustics; thermodaynamics

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Formal applications can be completed online: http://www.abdn.ac.uk/postgraduate/apply. You should apply for Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering, to ensure that your application is passed to the correct person for processing.

NOTE CLEARLY THE NAME OF THE SUPERVISOR AND EXACT PROJECT TITLE YOU WISH TO BE CONSIDERED FOR ON THE APPLICATION FORM.

Informal inquiries can be made to Dr D Vega-Maza ([Email Address Removed]) with a copy of your curriculum vitae and cover letter. All general enquiries should be directed to the Postgraduate Research School ([Email Address Removed]).