Mitigation of radical chain reactions in dense-phase CO2 streams by neutralizing NO2 via methanol and ammonia (Do not apply via Workday, apply here QMUL Online Application) Background Large-scale projects for carbon capture and storage (CCS) are a vital component of humanity’s effort to mitigate climate change. The predicted scale is enormous (5-10 Gtonne/y of CO2 sequestrated by 2050), and is only achievable through large infrastructure used by many emitters simultaneously (the so-called hub CCS projects – transport networks and injection facilities). Each CO2 stream produced by each emitter carries a specific spectrum of impurities – NOx, SOx, CH3OH etc. Upon mixing of the streams, the impurities react with each other and produce dangerous products – H2SO4, HNO3, hygroscopic salts – that result in unacceptable corrosion rates. To control the corrosion, the emitters are currently required to purify the CO2 stream to unprecedented extent, which is expensive. We must develop alternative ways to avoid corrosion to make CCS affordable to more emitters. Project is funded by industrial partners Shell and TWI. Objectives The aim of this PhD studentship is to investigate the mechanisms of the reactions that lead to corrosion and, possibly, to develop methodologies to mitigate these processes. The particular focus is competitive oxidation in mixtures of NOx, SOx, H2S and CH3OH dissolved in CO2. The studentship is focussed on modelling work mainly (reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, solvent effects), but it will involve analysis of experimental data by our partners, and – if the student wants to – actual experimental work. The expected outcome of this project is a tool to simulate the radical chain reactions between the impurities. The skills required from you Candidates with a background in chemistry, physics and chemical engineering are welcome to apply. A good understanding of chemical kinetics is required. Some experience with computer algebra packages (Maple, Mathematica, Python) is a plus. Most important is your enthusiasm. Your prospects CCS is going to become one of the top 10 processes by capacity in the next 20 years. There is already hunger for specialists in this field. Therefore, by the time you finish your PhD, you will be a highly valued expert in a major new industry. Funding Funded by: SEMS A stipend is available for 4 years , QMUL stipend rate is £21,874 p.a; Project is funded by industrial partners Shell and TWI. Eligibility The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) or MSc/MRes in a relevant discipline. If English is not your first language, you will require a valid English certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall with a minimum score of minimum score of 6.0 in each of Writing, Listening, Reading and Speaking). Candidates are expected to start in April (Semester 3). Contact For informal enquiries about this opportunity, please contact Radomir SLAVCHOV. Apply Start an application for this studentship and for entry onto the PhD FT Chemical Engineering full-time programme (Semester 3 / April start): (Do not apply via Workday, apply here QMUL Online Application) TWI Culture As one of the world’s leading independent research and technology organisations, we are committed to attracting, motivating and retaining the best talent from around the world. Our goal is to develop the next generation of experts to address future industry challenges. We are committed to creating a culture that recognises and respects the differences between people while valuing the contribution everyone makes to TWI. The diversity of our staff and students makes a positive and important contribution to our continuing success. TWI offers a comprehensive training programme, incorporating both in-house and external courses to support staff development. TWI Values: Our six values provide a point of reference for the way we expect our people to operate and behave. Inclusion: Valuing the contribution from every individual, creating value for our customers Teamwork: Building effective working relationships, we accomplish more together Adaptability: Engaging positively with change to meet the needs of the business Taking Responsibility: Achieving our objectives and personal development Innovation & Expertise: Championing new ideas and sharing knowledge to solve industry problems Customer Focus: Building trusting relationships with our customers TWI Ltd is a world expert in engineering, materials and joining technologies with significant property assets. We provide industry with advice and know-how in design, fabrication, failure analysis and prevention. We offer opportunities to collaborate with inspiring and expert teams and a supportive environment in which you are actively encouraged to share your ideas and continually develop your own skills and knowledge. If you are looking to join an organisation that is fuelled by innovation, teamwork, and openness, this role could be for you.