Structural Energy Storage

The vision of this project is to radically transform the panels and various structural elements of transport vehicles (for land, air, etc.) and everyday products, such as consumer goods, to energy storage devices with the high energy density of batteries and the structural properties of composite materials.

Department/School

School of Mechanical Engineering Sciences

Project Description

The vision of this project is to radically transform the panels and various structural elements of transport vehicles (for land, air, etc.) and everyday products, such as consumer goods, to energy storage devices with the high energy density of batteries and the structural properties of composite materials. The project addresses the challenge of developing a dual functionality matrix with solid state properties but high lithium ion diffusivity, designing the composite material module taking into account the electrical properties of the different component materials, and monitoring the health of the composite, dual functionality material using non-destructive testing. For this purpose, novel non-destructive methodologies and protocols will be developed and assessed that characterise the electrochemical and structural behaviour, properties and performance of the composite material and detect its state of health, state of charge and its remaining lifetime. The experimental work in the project combines composite material and battery manufacturing, material characterisation including microstructural and mechanical testing, electrochemical battery testing and ultrasonic non-destructive monitoring in operando.

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted via the Engineering Materials PhD programme page ,but please note the closing date for this studentship is Friday 6^th January 2023.  In place of a research proposal you should upload a document stating the title of the projects (up to 2) that you wish to apply for and the name(s) of the relevant supervisor. You must upload your full CV and any transcripts of previous academic qualifications. You should enter ’Faculty Funded Competition’ under funding type.

Funding

The studentship will provide a stipend at UKRI rates (currently £17,668 for 2022/23) and tuition fees for 3.5 years. An additional bursary of £1700 per annum for the duration of the studentship will be offered to exceptional candidates.