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  Liquid exfoliation of quasi-2D nanosheets for use as efficient visible-light photocatalysts


   Department of Mechanical Engineering

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  Dr Jason Stafford  Applications accepted all year round  Competition Funded PhD Project (European/UK Students Only)

About the Project

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have received significant scientific attention due to their exceptional properties. The most well-known of this class of nanomaterial is graphene, however, there are numerous mono- and few-layer 2D materials which have the potential to transform existing and future technologies across a wide range of sectors. Applications include opto-electronics, semiconductors, biomedical sensors, tissue engineering, drug delivery, and energy conversion and storage. Semi-conductors such as MoS2, g-C3N4, and various 2D/2D heterostructures also function as photocatalysts that can perform pollution degradation and solar fuel production using only visible light. If realised on a global scale, these materials could deliver sustainable clean water and hydrogen fuel. This would have a major impact on resource use globally, and in particular for arid regions where water quality issues and abundant solar radiation co-exist. It is, therefore, imperative that these exciting materials can be exploited on a large scale to address the global challenges that society faces. Production is a key area that requires attention. Liquid exfoliation is one promising approach, however, the performance is typically poor (a few percent yield).

The aim of this research project is to develop new insights on 2D nanosheet production, using a combination of advanced multiphase numerical and experimental fluid dynamics techniques, while also revealing a critical understanding of the relationship between the synthesised nanosheet structures and their photocatalytic performance. We are looking to recruit an excellent graduate from a relevant discipline (i.e. Chemical/Mechanical/Materials Engineering or closely related). For informal inquiries, please contact Dr. Jason Stafford ([Email Address Removed])

Chemistry (6) Engineering (12) Materials Science (24) Physics (29)

Funding Notes

This research project is in competition with other projects within the School of Engineering. Projects which receive the best applicant will be awarded the funding. The successful UK and Irish applicants will receive 3.5 years of support through a tax-free stipend and full tuition fees. Funding for citizens outside of these regions covers tuition fees only.

References


D. T. Pérez-Álvarez, J. Brown, E. A. Elgohary, Y. M. A. Mohamed, H. A. El Nazer, P. Davies and J. Stafford (2022) Challenges surrounding nanosheets and their application to solar-driven photocatalytic water treatment. Materials Advances, 3, 4103-4131.

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