Fluid Mechanics of Colloidal Suspensions (Nanofluids) in Drilling Operations

Nanotechnology is an emerging technology that has been employed for energy extraction processes in recent years. The development of nanofluids as colloidal systems and their use in drilling fluids has shown promising results for harsh environmental conditions as well as their application in geothermal wells (source of renewable energy). The fluid mechanics of such colloidal systems in varying environmental conditions has opened new areas of investigations. In this project the aim is to use experimental and modelling approaches to develop a model for flow of colloidal systems in wells. Therefore, through the outcomes of this study the dynamics of flow and particles movements can be predicted and the optimised solutions for practical scenarios will be explored.

Candidates should have (or expect to achieve) a UK honours degree at 2.1 or above (or equivalent) in Petroleum Engineering or Mechanical Engineering or Chemical Engineering with an essential background in fluid mechanics, multi-phase flow and heat transfer.

Knowledge of: Nanoparticles, Fluid Mechanics, Petroleum Engineering, Colloidal Systems.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

• Apply for Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering
• State name of the lead supervisor as the Name of Proposed Supervisor
• State ‘Self-funded’ as Intended Source of Funding
• State the exact project title on the application form

When applying please ensure all required documents are attached:

• All degree certificates and transcripts (Undergraduate AND Postgraduate MSc-officially translated into English where necessary)
• Detailed CV

Informal inquiries can be made to Dr A Sharifi ([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])