Industrial decarbonisation is strongly dependent on integrating sustainable production of chemical energy vectors in industries also referred as Power-to-X (P2X). The chemical industry can achieve this by using carbon dioxide (CO2) for producing different products to embed carbon in products, and therefore, reducing carbon emissions. A key technology to realise the potential of P2X is Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells (SOEC), which enables the conversion of CO2 into sustainable chemicals for the ongoing energy transition into a low carbon future. Through closed collaboration with industrial clusters, we have identified our initial P2X focus to be on organic chemicals, such as ethylene and ethylene glycol (EG), to develop a more sustainable and efficient alternative for making commodity chemicals from non-petroleum feedstocks. This opens very attractive commercial opportunities to produce marketable products, especially for those industries that may not have direct CO2 and H2 storage options. To achieve high product selectivity, conversion yields and current efficiencies to minimize energy requirements, we will: develop cost effective catalysts and electrolytes of the electrochemical conversion; optimize the process through reactor design; and analyse the proposed route using life-cycle assessment. For more information on this project, please visit: https://idric.org/project/mip-5-4/
We are looking to recruit a creative and motivated researcher to join our Research Centre for Carbon Solutions (RCCS), an internationally leading engineering centre, inspiring and delivering innovation for the wider deployment of technologies needed to achieve decarbonisation and meet net zero targets. See http://rccs.hw.ac.uk/ for more details.
The project is part of the research portfolio of IDRIC, the UK Industrial Decarbonisation Research and Innovation Centre, that is the focal point of the green transformation in the UK’s industrial heartlands. Powered by research and innovation and funded by UKRI, IDRIC develops innovative decarbonisation solutions at pace and scale in the places where it matters most. See https://idric.org/ for more details.
This studentship offers annual stipend payment of at least £17,668 per year and cover tuition fees for 3.5 years.
Closing Date: 31st March 2023. All successful candidates must commence studies by 1st October 2023.
To submit an application, please follow the on-line application process (note that only on-line applications will be accepted): https://www.hw.ac.uk/uk/schools/engineering-physical-sciences/research/james-watt.htm
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