Tribological interactions in LiAir Engines: Assessment of potential nanoparticles and their interaction with the working fluids and structures

This is an industrial collaboration project with Dearman to explore smart, flexible and clean energy technologies.

The Dearman engine uses the expansion of liquid nitrogen to provide power in a reciprocating engine. This leads to a zero emissions philosophy, as the only waste product is nitrogen gas. The School of Engineering currently works in this area, with a significant investment in facilities and technical staff, through the EPSRC 8 great technologies investment, direct industrial investment (including Dearman and Air Products) and recent Innovate UK funding, totalling ~£1M over the past 5 years. It is also well aligned with the Energy Capital and TERA projects, with whom Dearman are Lead Partners.

The project will encompass a study into the tribological interactions in the Dearman Engine with a view to the replacement of fluids, including assessment, and the study of potential nanoparticles and their interaction with the working fluids and structures in the Dearman Engine. The goal of the project will be to reduce friction, and increase efficiency. There will also be some modelling of lubricant flows in a variety of engine conditions under ‘cold starts’ drawing on experience the group has developed with Mahle Engine Systems and previous work on minimum lubrication conditions for engine bearings. Overall the aim is to improve the efficiency and reliability of the engine and to increase the operating economics by from these. This project will be completed in collaboration with Dearman and will utilise equipment including the Dearman Engine and the Tribology Laboratory in the Schools of Engineering and Chemistry.

The anticipated outputs from the research include 4* publications, as the challenges of the Dearman engine will require the development of a new technological approach to friction reduction. There is a potential for patents resulting from new technology. If the project is completed successfully then Dearman will benefit from increased competitiveness, with an efficient engine that can be produced economically. This depending on application could contribute to cleaner inner city air and less reliance on hydrocarbons.

Informal enquires about the project can be directed to Dr Dearn ([Email Address Removed])

How to apply:
• Apply directly via the University of Birmingham Postgraduate application system, the Postgraduate portal. (Apply button)
• Please detail the advertised supervisor and project title under the ’Research Information’ section of the application form.