Multiscale investigation of corrosion deposition in high temperature high pressure water for nuclear power plants

Saturn_Nuclear_CDT

We are pleased to present an exciting PhD opportunity in collaboration with Rolls-Royce, providing a unique chance for candidates to participate in a multiscale investigation of corrosion deposition in high-temperature, high-pressure water for nuclear power plants. A background in materials science, chemistry and engineering is preferable, however there are also opportunities for retraining. This ensures that the project is accessible to individuals from diverse academic backgrounds who are eager to contribute to cutting-edge research at the forefront of nuclear technology. The PhD studentship comes with a competitive stipend.

Objectives

This PhD opportunity, offered in collaboration with Rolls-Royce, focuses on a multiscale investigation of CRUD (Corrosion Related Unidentified Deposits) deposition in high-temperature, high-pressure water within nuclear power plants. The primary objective of this research project is to unravel the complex dynamics of iron-dominated, nickel-dominated, and mixed Fe-Ni corrosion products on zircaloy surfaces. By exploring boiling, flow conditions, and varying coolant chemistries, the study aims to understand the effects of deposited CRUD on surface morphology and thermal performance. The project employs a comprehensive approach integrating experimental and modeling methodologies to address the significant concern of CRUD deposition in water-cooled reactor technology, particularly in Pressurized Water Reactors (PWR).

Significance:

CRUD deposition is a critical issue in water-cooled reactor technology, impacting thermal performance by introducing increased resistance to heat removal and altering surface composition. This PhD project addresses a crucial challenge and seeks to provide a deeper understanding of CRUD formation and its influence on heat transfer dynamics. The investigation aims to contribute in-depth insights to enhance the safety and optimal performance of nuclear power plants. By characterizing CRUD layers through microstructural, compositional, and topographical analyses, the research endeavors to advance knowledge in the field, offering critical information on inducive conditions, deposition rates, and the overall impact of CRUD on various surfaces under varying flow conditions.

Methodology:

The project employs a multifaceted methodology that integrates experimental and modeling approaches. Experimental investigations will be conducted at the University of Manchester, utilizing established rigs to simulate a spectrum of conditions, from single-phase heat transfer to boiling. The research will focus on the comprehensive characterization of CRUD layers, employing microstructural, compositional, and topographical analyses to unravel the complexities of CRUD formation. Complementing these experimental efforts, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation will be employed to interpret CRUD build-up measurements, identify key phenomena influencing CRUD deposition, and refine the understanding of CRUD deposition dynamics. This combined approach aims to provide a holistic perspective on CRUD deposition in high-temperature, high-pressure water environments in nuclear power plants.

Benefit:

This PhD studentship offers a competitive industrial stipend uplift from the EPSRC base rate. The supervisory team, consisting of two academics along with industrial supervisors, will facilitate the translation of research into an industrial context. Close collaboration with Rolls-Royce technical experts ensures that the research remains aligned with industry needs. The project's alignment with the UK's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 further emphasizes its broader significance in the context of sustainable energy development.

The studentship will be run as part of the SATURN Centre for Doctoral Training and thus you will get to interact with a large cohort of students who are studying nuclear science and engineering at six leading UK universities. 

Eligibility

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor for this project before you apply: [Email Address Removed]

How to apply

• Please complete the enquiry form to express your interest. 
• We strongly recommend you contact the project supervisor after completing the form to speak to them about your suitability for the project. You can find their details on the project listing. 
• If your qualifications meet our standard entry requirements, the CDT Admissions Team will send your enquiry form and CV to the named project supervisor. 

Our application process can also be found on our website: Apply | EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Skills And Training Underpinning a Renaissance in Nuclear | The University of Manchester. If you have any questions, please contact [Email Address Removed] 

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).