New chemical processing and recycling techniques for autocatalysts.

FACULTY OF SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

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

Background

This Ph.D. project, a collaboration between Dr Andrew Fogg and BullionTech, will extend and enhance the recycling of autocatalysts. The current protocol is to extract the precious metals, including platinum, palladium and rhodium, before the remaining ceramic casing is sent to landfill. The ceramic casing, which is predominantly alumina mixed with other ceramic materials, becomes contaminated by precious metals and organic compounds during operation of the autocatalyst rendering it unsuitable for further use in autocatalysts and similar applications. This project addresses these issues by proposing a washing protocol for the ceramic material to remove and recover the metal and organic contaminants before seeking innovative uses of the ceramic material to prevent the need for landfill. The latter will require the use of materials chemistry and processing techniques. One potential application would be to use the cleaned ceramic fibre in the fabrication of blocks for the construction industry.

Summary of research tasks and work programme

1. Determine the composition and levels of contamination of the ceramic material
2. Investigation of leaching, digestion and crystallisation techniques to remove, recover and recycle the contaminants and ceramic
3. Refinement of the ceramic material into a form suitable for use in other areas.
4. Testing of the purified ceramic fibre for suitability for production of ceramic blocks for the construction industry

Required skills and knowledge

Experience of the following areas would be advantageous:
1. Synthetic and analytical materials chemistry techniques
2. Synthetic and analytical inorganic chemistry techniques

Qualifications:

First degree (2:1 or above) in Chemistry or a related discipline (essential).

A relevant Masters degree in Chemistry or a related discipline (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: RA001793

Availability for interview

Please be available for interview during the week of the 4th September 2017. Exact time and date to be agreed.

Further information

Prospective applicants are encouraged to initially contact Dr Andrew Fogg ([Email Address Removed]), Tel. 01244 512516 to discuss the project further. For general enquiries contact Postgraduate Research Admissions, University of Chester at [Email Address Removed].

Closing date: 13th August 2017