Sustainable waste-to-chemicals strategies to promote circular economy.

These projects are open to students worldwide, but have no funding attached. Therefore, the successful applicant will be expected to fund tuition fees at the relevant level (home or international) and any applicable additional research costs. Please consider this before applying. 

The global waste crisis looms large, posing a grave threat to our environment and public health. With growing landfills and incineration contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, we find ourselves surrounded in a waste crisis. Yet, within this challenge lies a remarkable opportunity – the transformation of diverse types of waste materials into valuable chemicals and sources of energy.

This research proposal seeks to inspire and engage future PhD students who are eager to delve deeper into this transformative potential. We aim to use an interdisciplinary approach that will drive the development of groundbreaking and sustainable solutions for converting waste into chemicals. Our overarching goal is to tackle the scientific and technological challenges while also considering environmental, economic, and social dimensions of proposed solutions.

The spectrum of waste-to-chemicals feedstocks is vast, encompassing various materials such as waste plastics, biomass, flue-gas carbon dioxide, waste building-demolition materials, municipal solid waste, industrial byproducts, electronic waste, batteries, and agricultural residues. These diverse resources provide avenues for sustainable chemical production and the adoption of circular economy practices.

The applicants accepted in this theme will have the opportunity to further define their research project, formulate specific research questions, and establish research objectives during the literature review phase.

Our primary objectives revolve around the development of cutting-edge technologies for converting diverse waste streams into valuable chemicals. Our ongoing research focuses on key areas, including the conversion of waste plastics into valuable chemicals and fuels through hydrocracking, the transformation of lignocellulosic biomass and food waste into useful chemicals, and the conversion of flue-gas carbon dioxide into stable carbonates for use in construction materials such as cement and concrete. Furthermore, we welcome inquiries into research pertaining to other waste materials mentioned above.

In addition to technology development, our research objectives also extend to sustainability assessments. We will employ techno-economic analysis, environmental life cycle assessments, and social impact assessments to comprehensively evaluate the proposed technologies, processes, and products.

This project will greatly benefit from the diverse academic backgrounds of our students, including those with prior degrees in chemical and process engineering, materials and polymer engineering, petroleum and energy engineering, civil engineering, catalysis, chemistry, or closely related fields. Join us in the pursuit of a sustainable future by contributing to the transformation of waste into valuable resources and fostering a circular economy mindset. Your PhD journey awaits, filled with innovation and purpose.

Essential Background:

Decisions will be based on academic merit. The successful applicant should have, or expect to obtain, a UK Honours Degree at 2.1 (or equivalent) in Chemical Engineering.

Application Procedure:

Formal applications can be completed online: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/pgap/login.php

You should apply for Engineering (PhD) to ensure your application is passed to the correct team for processing.

Please clearly note the name of the lead supervisor and project title on the application form. If you do not include these details, it may not be considered for the studentship.

Your application must include: A personal statement, an up-to-date copy of your academic CV, and clear copies of your educational certificates and transcripts.

Please note: you DO NOT need to provide a research proposal with this application.

If you require any additional assistance in submitting your application or have any queries about the application process, please don't hesitate to contact us at pgrs-admissions@abdn.ac.uk