The drive for digitalization and global connectivity is revolutionizing the way in which society lives and works. This digital transformation and its rapid growth is supported by 500 hyperscale data centers (as of 2019) with a further 150 under construction. The energy demand of these hyperscale data centers is substantial and forecasts project energy usage to be 8% of global demand by 2030. Maintaining performance of these data centers by cooling the servers is a substantial energy sink, therefore new solutions to enhance heat transfer and fluid flow are needed to achieve greater energy efficiency.
To achieve a step-change in the performance of cooling circuits in hyperscale data centers, a new approach is needed. This project will explore the development of advanced nanofluids by synthesizing inorganic-organic composites that deliver both enhanced heat transfer and fluid flow in narrow channels. The concept is based on utilizing the superior heat transfer properties of inorganic nanoparticles and the fluid drag reduction of high molecular weight polymers. By incorporating responsive polymers into the composite material, the drag reducing properties of the fluid will be tunable, therefore not compromising the heat transfer properties of the fluid in hot-zones.
We are looking for an enthusiastic graduate with 1st class honours or 2:1 in Chemistry, Materials or Engineering to join the Colloids and Surface Science Group in the School of Chemical and Process Engineering. The project will involve the synthesis, characterization and performance testing of the developed nanofluids. The chosen candidate will have access to the world-leading research facilities in the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences and will be encouraged to explore research placements at national and international research institutions.
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