Carbon dioxide utilisation from captured industry emissions

Carbon capture and utilization (CCU) is anticipated to be a key technology for enabling industrial decarbonisation. Critical industries such as glass and steel manufacture will continue to be significant emitters of CO₂ for the foreseeable future. Carbon capture offers a way to mitigate the environmental impact and utilization provides a way to take a waste-molecule (CO₂) and turn it into a useful product.

The overall objective of the project is to develop new electrochemical approaches to carbon dioxide utilization. Electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction to useful fuels and feedstocks (e.g. CH₄, CH₃OH, CO) has been reported by numerous groups world-wide, including our own [1,2]. However integration with capture technologies is not yet viable. This studentship, which is part-funded by an industrial partner will explore the use of electrochemical approaches for both carbon dioxide capture and utilization. The successful candidate will work within our interdisciplinary research team to develop novel electrocatalysts/electrode structures and explore the viability of their deployment in real-world scenarios.

The project will appeal to students with interests in electrochemistry and catalysis. Experience of these topics is desirable, but not essential. Applications are encouraged from highly motivated candidates who have, or expect to have, at least a 2:1 degree or equivalent in Chemistry. Some teaching duties may be required.

Applications should be made as soon as possible. Informal enquiries are also encouraged and should be addressed to Professor Alex Cowan (acowan@liverpool.ac.uk). Please quote reference CCPR104 in your application form.