Composite thermal storage materials fabrication using cold sintering approach

Applications are invited for a postgraduate research position leading to a PhD degree in School of Chemical Engineering at the University of Birmingham.

Thermal energy storage (TES) provides a unique approach for efficient and effective peak-shaving of electricity and heat demand, efficient use of low grade waste heat and renewable energy, low-cost high efficiency carbon capture, and distributed energy and backup energy systems. However, a competitive TES technology requires a number of scientific and technological challenges to be addressed including TES materials, TES components and devices, and integration of TES devices with energy networks and associated dynamic optimization.

This project aims to develop composite TES materials to achieve high energy density, great durability and long lifespan, improved thermal property, and low costs. In particularly a new thermal treatment process named ‘Cold Sintering Process (CSP)’ will be used for the fabrication of composite thermal storage materials. In this project the PhD student need to carry out mainly experimental investigation to study the changes of microstructure, thermal property and mechanical property of the composite materials under different CSP treatments and ultimately to establish theoretical relationships between the CSP parameters and product properties. The experimental work will be processed within the brand new well-founded cryogenic lab (Birmingham Centre for Cryogenic Energy Storage: http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/activity/energy/research/centre-energy-storage/cryogenic-energy-storage/index.aspx).

Eligibility requirements:
To undertake this research, we are seeking a motivated candidate with a first class degree or upper second (or equivalent for non-UK students) or a combination of qualification and professional experience equivalent to that level, in Chemical Engineering or Material Science and/or Engineering. Independent work, self-motivation, good team spirit and excellent communication skills are important assets of the successful candidate. The candidate has to demonstrate proof of proficiency in English if applicable. Candidate with some knowledge and experience in composite material formulation or thermal energy storage will be particularly considered.