Process Development for New Formulation Products With Nanoparticles

Products that contain nanoparticles in their formulation are finding increasing applications in a wide range of industries including the personal and health care, coatings, paints and inks, plastics due to their unique properties- greater reactivity, strength and conductivity. Some examples in current use include transparent sunscreens, packaging with superior barrier properties, reinforced rubber products such as car tyres. In order for nanoparticles to be highly functional, it is essential to achieve as fine a dispersion as possible and the dispersion should be stable for a long shelf life.

Some of these products are in the form of nanoparticulate dispersions. The manufacturing process therefore requires the incorporation of nanoparticle powders into a liquid and subsequently deagglomeration to achieve a fine dispersion. Often several process devices are used for the different stages and process design relies to a great extent on trial and error prolonging the time to market of newly formulated products. This project aims to address this approach and is aligned with the Manufacturing the Future Priority Theme of the EPSRC.

The study will build on previous work of the supervisor and make use of high shear process devices. The objectives will be to establish the effects of particle properties and hydrodynamic conditions on the kinetics of incorporation and deagglomeration.

The knowledge developed will provide guidelines for industrial practice applicable to a wide range of products. You will have the opportunity to make use of a large installation which can process 100- 200 litres, i.e. pilot to manufacturing scale as well as analytical techniques such as particle sizing, rheology, electron microscopy. The knowledge and skills developed should enhance your employability in a wide range of industries. It is anticipated that there will be the opportunity to present and discuss findings during international conferences and also network with other researchers in the field.

Loughborough University
Loughborough University is a top-ten rated university in England for research intensity (REF, 2014) and an outstanding 66% of the work of Loughborough’s academic staff who were eligible to be submitted to the REF was judged as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’, compared to a national average figure of 43%.

In choosing Loughborough for your research, you’ll work alongside academics who are leaders in their field. You will benefit from comprehensive support and guidance from our Doctoral College, including tailored careers advice, to help you succeed in your research and future career.

Find out more: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research-degrees/student-support/

Entry requirements
The candidate is expected to have a degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline with at least a 2:1. Please state other relevant experience in the application.

English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the international website: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/apply/english-language-requirements/

How to apply
All applications should be made online: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/research-applications/

Under school/department name, select 'Chemical Engineering'. Please quote reference GOTCG034.

The deadline for applications is 1st October 2020.