The effects of shear and pressure on novel surfactant self-assembly in non-aqueous media

The aim of the PhD is to relate the self-assembly of surfactants in non-aqueous solvents to adsorption properties at solid-liquid interfaces, and ultimately how these properties influence friction of surfaces. The programme builds on the extensive experience at Bristol in developing surfactant systems with tailored self-assembly. Families of model surfactants with systematic variation in structure will be utilised and the self-assembly studied in non-aqueous solvents. Phase behaviour studies, interfacial tensiometry and small-angle neutron scattering and neutron reflection at both Rutherford Appleton Laboratories (Didcot, UK https://www.isis.stfc.ac.uk/Pages/home.aspx) and Institute Laue Langevin (Grenoble, France https://www.ill.eu/) will be utilised. Other facilities external to Bristol will be used at Infineum (Abingdon, UK).

This PhD links strongly with other Infineum PhD programmes: experimental tribometery (Cambridge), computer simulation (Edinburgh) and model polymer synthesis (Warwick), and cross-university collaborations will be developed.

Interested and suitably qualified candidates should make informal contact at with Professor Julian Eastoe [Email Address Removed] (http://orcid.org/0000-0001-5706-8792) before 01 December 2017. The intended start date for the project is 08 Jan 2018, but there is flexibility. After contacting Professor Eastoe, you may be invited to make a formal application by sending a 2-page CV and covering letter explaining why you want to join this PhD program, and then additionally applying using the University of Bristol on-line application system.