Fine and ultra-fine particles in air: Electromagnetic and low temperature plasma decontamination

Air-borne fine and ultra-fine particles pose significant health and environmental risks. In recent years significant attention started to be paid to particles of sizes less than 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) or even particles with size less than 1 micrometer (PM1). It is known that particles with dimensions less than 3 µm can remain airborne for almost unlimited periods of time. Therefore, in the case of enclosed environment (public transport, houses, buildings) there is a significant probability that these particles can be inhaled and it increases the health risk they pose. The engineering challenge is to design an effective technology for removing of air-borne solid particles, liquid droplets or even microorganisms with sizes in this range from air.

One of the promising technological approaches which can be used for air-cleaning and decontamination operations is based on ionisation and treatment of aerosols and suspended air-borne particulate matter with ultra-short, sub-microsecond plasma impulses. Such high tension (high power, high field) impulses generate electrons, ions and chemically active species, thus electric charge can be transferred to the air-borne particulate matter. An external electric field then can be used to control these charged fine and ultra-fine particles. Moreover, if microorganisms will be subjected to these plasma impulses, their membranes may be damaged by the induced and transferred charges and plasma generated chemically active species can disrupt normal operation of bio-membranes resulting in the death of (potentially pathogenic) microorganisms. Thus, this plasm a technology can be used for the efficient air cleaning and bio-decontamination operations.

The proposed project will be focused into the development of the advanced impulsive non-thermal plasma systems for air cleaning and aerosol decontamination operations. Potential PhD researcher will also study mechanisms of charge transfer to bio-membranes, induced electro-mechanical and thermal stresses using analytical and computer modelling methods (experience in modelling COMSOL will be an advantage). A candidate should have strong background in electro-magnetism, background in bio-physics will be welcomed. The project will progress through the design and development and experimental stages, also this programme will include an analytical and computer modelling as discussed above.

Enthusiastic and applicants are welcomed to apply for this self-funding PhD research opportunity. The prospective PhD researcher will be supported by experienced members of staff at the High Voltage Technologies Group, he/she will work in the dynamic research group conducting studies at the frontiers of low-temperature science and engineering (plasma for environmental, medical and agricultural applications). This PhD candidate will work in close cooperation with electrical engineers, physicists and microbiologists which provides a unique opportunity to conduct multi-disciplinary plasma-based research project.