Novel membrane technologies for clean water production

The project primarily relates to the development of novel membrane technologies for utilisation in groundwater purification technologies. Primarily, inorganic matrices such as zeolites (inorganic and natural) will be explored as potential membranes for the removal of heavy metals from aqueous streams (via pervaporative distillation or pressurised membrane methods), or alternatively as materials for metal removal through continuous ion-exchange.

The project will focus on intrinsic material design (i.e. zeolite synthesis and design), in order to develop more selective membranes, and also reaction engineering, to optimise the utilisation of existing membranes in hitherto unexplored methods). The primary focal point of this study is to develop novel, scalable and economically-viable membrane methods for the decontamination of ground water in developing countries.

In addition, PhD students in the Hammond group are expected to participate in multiple projects. As such, opportunities to employ the developed membranes in other fields, particularly catalytic reaction separation processes, will also be explored.

The candidate should have a very good knowledge of fundamental chemistry, reaction engineering processes (particularly separation) and inorganic materials chemistry (zeolites, carbon-based materials, etc). Candidates with practical membrane/separation experience, are preferred, although candidates with backgrounds in catalytic processes are also encouraged to apply.

Collaboration with researchers abroad, the UK, and in the public sector will further support the research. The project, and our larger research group, is fully supported by The Royal Society. Full details of these factors will be disclosed to candidates during the interview process.

Supervisor - Dr Ceri Hammond http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/people/view/38525-hammond-ceri


Academic criteria

Applicant must hold at least a Master’s degree in Chemistry (e.g. MSc, MChem). Candidates only holding a BSc will not be considered.


Start dates of 1st July and 1st October considered.

We reserve the right to close applications early should sufficient applications be received.