Sustainable Alternative Routes to Chemicals and Fuels from Carbon Dioxide

The global climate emergency presents pressing challenges around identifying sustainable routes to fuels and chemicals, the production of which currently relies on fossil and other unsustainable resources. This PhD project aims to develop novel processing routes to these critical compounds based the application of CO₂ as a feedstock.

Although typically associated with directly contributing to global heating, carbon dioxide presents a potentially highly valuable carbon-feedstock. The application of CO₂ as a feedstock to synthesise chemicals and fuels currently produced predominately from fossil-routes allows for the repurposing of this pollutant as a valuable resource while also contributing to the reduction in emissions. Research from our laboratory has previously demonstrated the role chemical catalysis can play in converting CO₂ to value-added compounds, e.g. https://doi.org/10.1002/cssc.201902340, https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10091067. This project will offer opportunities to explore CO₂ hydrogenation and/or carboxylation using CO₂ in a range of processing environments and thereby develop novel processing routes for this technology of growing industrial interest.

The research will be conducted in a well-equipped, modern experimental laboratory. Alongside reaction studies, students will employ a range of analytical methods including GC-MS, FTIR, etc. This project is suitable for graduates in chemical engineering, chemistry or a closely related discipline. Previous experience of experimental laboratory work is essential, as a demonstrable passion for research. Full training on all equipment to be used will however be provided.

Training on the specific analytical techniques to be used will be provided, while a wide variety of research training will be provided via the Doctoral Development Programme.

Chemical manufacturing underpins the UK economy and plays a crucial role globally. A PhD graduate in this area can expect to be in high demand.

The student will be supported by the project supervisor and other members of the research group.

Please see this link for information on how to apply: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/cbe/postgraduate/phd/how-apply. Please include the name of your proposed supervisor and the title of the PhD project within your application.

Applicants should have a good first degree in chemical engineering, chemistry or a related subject. If English is not your first language then you must have an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) average of 6.5 or above with at least 6.0 in each component, or equivalent. Please see this link for further information: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply/english-language.