We have recently demonstrated that graphene oxide works as a sacrificial template, replicating its nano- and two-dimensionality in different metal oxides such as TiO2 and CeO2 [1]. Resulting nanostructured metal oxides consist of <20 nm nanoparticles in a two-dimensional arrangement. These oxides obtain superior results in a wide range of catalytic applications due to their larger surface area. Moreover, their high-aspect ratio restricts their sintering at high temperatures, preserving higher surface areas. This approach is key to preparing materials for solid oxide cells for chemical-to-electrical and electrical-to-chemical energy conversion, where surface area is compromised by high operating temperatures [2]. In this project the student will exploit graphene sacrificial templating and other novel approaches to develop novel doped ceria-based materials with high surface areas and controlled sintering behaviour. These materials will be extensively characterised covering their novel physico-chemical, structural and electrochemical properties for their application in solid oxide cells. These characterisation techniques will be combined to relate the properties of these materials to their best performance, guiding the design of more efficient solid oxide cells for chemical-to-electrical and electrical-to-chemical energy conversion.
Characterisation will involve key techniques such as electron microscopies, including in-situ, (SEM, TEM, STEM) for morphology and crystal structure, sorption techniques (N2, BET, TPD) for surface area and gas-solid interfaces, spectroscopies (XPS, EPR, FTIR) for structural defects and bonding information, and electrochemical techniques (impedance spectroscopy and isotopic exchange) for ion transport, and Atom Probe Tomography (APT) to correlate nanoscale changes with function.
The student will spend a placement at Ceres under the supervision of Prof. Mukerkee and the Energy Materials Team. Ceres is equipped with a range of laboratory facilities and manufacturing capabilities, including printing, characterisation, scale-up and testing facilities. This will be a unique opportunity to extend the research outcomes and impact of this PhD and to develop the professional skills and network of the student.
The student will form part of a student cohort in the CDT-ACM, where PhD training on characterisation techniques and professional development will be provided.
Application process
Since this project is co-funded by the CDT-ACM, you first have to be admitted in their programme.
If interested, contact Dr Salvador Eslava at Imperial with cover letter, CV, and academic transcripts.
We welcome applications from candidates for the Autumn 2023 entry. Ideally, you will hold, or be expected to achieve, a Master’s degree or a 4 year undergraduate degree at 2:1 level (or above) in a relevant subject, e.g. Material Science, Physics, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering.
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