Eco-Innovation Cheshire and Warrington Industry Collaboration: novel CO2 separation process using a purpose-built rig and simulation.

FACULTY OF SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

The Department of Chemical Engineering is seeking to appoint a PhD student to conduct research for Eco-Innovation Cheshire and Warrington Industry Collaboration programme. Part funded by ERDF.

Background
The successful applicant will join a project in collaboration with PMW Technology, an SME based at Thornton Science Park. PMW Technology has patented a novel physical process for separation of gases with an initial application to carbon capture. The process captures CO2 more simply and economically than competing processes. It can be scaled readily for challenging applications such as for industrial or transport emissions where the company sees major future opportunities.

This project will study the behaviour of the novel CO2 separation process using a purpose-built rig and simulation. The project aims to demonstrate and characterise the process and to model alternative implementation concepts to identify preferred applications.

Summary of research tasks and work programme
1. Validate the predicted performance of the key separation step with a ‘proof of principle rig’ and compare modelling assumptions with actual physical behaviour.
2. Develop modelling to select optimised configurations of the process for alternative applications including power generation and heavy transport, estimate their capital and operating costs to compare them with competing carbon capture technologies.

Required skills and knowledge

1. Thermodynamics and heat transfer
2. Design of experiments
3. Prior experience of using process simulation software would be an advantage



Qualifications:

First degree (2:1 or above) in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Natural Sciences (essential).

A relevant Masters degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Natural Sciences (desirable).

You will be a motivated and dynamic person, with a demonstrable capability to conduct independent research.

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of proficiency to IELTS 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in each band or equivalent.

Funding

This MPhil/PhD attracts a tax exempt stipend of £15,000 per annum. Post graduate fees are funded for UK/EU based students. International students will be required to make an additional contribution to their post graduate fees.

Application process

A completed University of Chester Postgraduate Research Degree (MPhil/PhD) application form including contact details of two referees (at least one must be familiar with your most recent academic work).

Candidates should apply online via the University of Chester website page https://www.chester.ac.uk/research/degrees/studentships and specify their reference number when applying. The reference number is: RA001798

Availability for interview

Please be available for interview during the week of the 31st July 2017 and during the week of the 21st August 2017. Exact time and date to be agreed.

Further information

Prospective applicants are encouraged to initially contact Dr Carolina Font Palma ([Email Address Removed]), Tel. 01244 512377 to discuss the project further. For general enquiries contact Postgraduate Research Admissions, University of Chester at [Email Address Removed]


Closing date: 17th July 2017