Applications are invited for a 4 year PhD studentship starting in Autumn 2022 as part of the EPSRC CDT in Aerosol Science
Project description
The aim of this project is to carry out modelling of radioactive aerosol transport in situations of wall-bounded turbulent flow (such as pipe networks and gloveboxes), including the influence of any particle radioactivity and radiogenic self-heating. A key objective is to determine the bulk transport and deposition dynamics of these aerosols, and consequently predict the occurrence (or absence) of radioactive ‘hot spots’. We expect that this work can help inform plant operations, particularly in respect of ventilation and filtration, but also in anticipation of eventual decommissioning.
The behaviour of aerosols in wall-bounded turbulent flow is complex, and particles are subject to various competing forces acting on them. Factors affecting deposition during particle transport in a turbulent flow include (not exhaustive): inertial impact, gravitational settling, Brownian diffusion, velocity/pressure gradients, thermophoresis, humidity. Particle radioactivity, and hence the influence of ionising radiation fields and particle self-charging (via alpha or beta decays), presents additional challenges. The physics involved is complex, with multiple scales (both temporal and spatial) to consider. Other considerations, such as the conduit wall material and finish, will affect deposition, rebound and resuspension. A detailed analysis of the transport and deposition dynamics involved will firstly be undertaken, focusing on near-wall flow regions, in order to identify key factors. This will inform the modelling choices for stochastic and reduced-order network models to enable plant-level engineering modelling, and provide ventilation design and operational recommendations. The early work will focus on a single particle type in a simple geometry; more complexity will be gradually introduced.
The project will carry out modelling, namely three-dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations of the behaviour of radioactive aerosols in wall-bounded turbulent flow situations. Aerosol transport in the turbulent flow has been previously investigated, however the aerosol mixture to be considered here will require further investigation and model development. Once a detailed investigation of the transport and deposition dynamics is undertaken and numerical results are validated, reduced-order network models will be developed to enable a plant-level engineering model which would otherwise be unachievable with detailed CFD simulations due to the high computational cost. These reduced-order models will consist of one-dimensional models, with scope for including deep learning (such as physics-informed and transformers) in the dimensionality reduction modelling.
Together, the complex physical phenomena involved and the state-of-the-art modelling strategies to be employed in this research, affirm that the project will be both stimulating and rewarding. The project is multidisciplinary, bringing together fields of nuclear physics, fluid mechanics, mathematics and computer science. The candidate will learn about aerosols, ventilation, radiation science, yet will also have a significant applied engineering aspect to the project. The supervisory team and the host institutions are both highly regarded, with extensive expertise and facilities available. The project will involve a close collaboration with partners, namely Nuclear Decommissioning Authority and National Nuclear Laboratory.
Dr Alberto Gambaruto would be pleased to discuss this research project further with interested candidates.
About the Centre for Doctoral training in Aerosol Science
Aerosol science is crucial to disciplines as broad ranging as transmission of disease, drug delivery to the lungs, climate change, energy and combustion science, novel materials, and consumer and agricultural products.
An aerosol is any collection of particles dispersed in a gas. The CDT brings together a multi-disciplinary team of 80 post-graduate students and academics from 7 UK universities spanning the physical, environmental and health sciences, and engineering. Our aim is to tackle the global challenges in which aerosol science is key.
Further details are available from our website: https://www.aerosol-cdt.ac.uk/
Doctoral Training in Aerosol Science
During your doctorate, you will learn to research in diverse multidisciplinary teams, gain an advanced understanding of the core physical science of aerosols, and collaborate with industrial and public sector partners, equipping you to undertake ground-breaking research in aerosol science.
During the first 7 months of your PhD, you will join the CDT cohort based at the University of Bristol. Core training in aerosol science, research methods, professionalism and translation will be delivered by Team Based Learning. You will then undertake a short research project at your home or partner institution before starting your PhD research. You will gain experience outside academia in a placement with an industrial/public sector partner in Year 2 or 3.
More Information and How to Apply
Candidates who aspire to work in a multidisciplinary field, and hold or will achieve a minimum of an upper second-class undergraduate degree in any of these areas are encouraged to apply: chemistry, physics, biological sciences, life and medical sciences, mathematics and computer science, chemical and mechanical engineering, pharmaceutical and environmental sciences.
Visit our website: Contact us:
https://www.aerosol-cdt.ac.uk/ [Email Address Removed]
Application Deadline:
Apply by 9am on Monday 24th January 2022. Shortlisting will take place after the deadline, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in the CDT online interview process during w/c 7th February 2022. Applications after this date will be subject to remaining availability of studentships.
Diversity and Inclusion
We are committed to furthering issues of equality, diversity and inclusion. We recognise the benefits of recruiting a diverse group of students to the Aerosol CDT and strive to avoid any conscious or unconscious bias in our recruitment. The needs of individuals will be accommodated during the recruitment process and while studying with the CDT. Further information on our commitment to equality and diversity can be found on our website.