Alternative Carbon Feedstocks for the Global Chemical Industry

About the Project

Recent analyses suggest that replacing conventional fossil-based plastics with sustainably sourced renewable or regenerative carbon feedstocks could sequester up to 1 Gt of CO2 with the potential to exceed 2.5 Gt by 2050. Although technologies for producing plastics from renewable feedstocks and strategies for reducing single-use plastic consumption already exist, the major challenge now lies in scaling these systems and developing robust end-of-life pathways that minimise carbon leakage from the techno-sphere to the atmosphere, biosphere, and hydrosphere.

This PhD project will investigate a novel concept termed “neo-fossils”, which uses biogenic carbon sources and captured CO2 as alternative carbon feedstocks for the chemical industry. The project aims to explore how carbon can be retained and sequestered within the techno-sphere through the production and management of plastics derived from these alternative sources. Rather than relying on the conventional linear model of importing fossil carbon feedstocks and exporting plastic products, this research will assess the feasibility of using locally available biogenic resources and captured CO2 to support more circular and regionally embedded plastic production systems.

The research is expected to involve systems-level analysis of alternative feedstock pathways, with a focus on sustainability, carbon management, and end-of-life outcomes. It will contribute to the development of new strategies for decarbonising the chemical industry while supporting long-term carbon sequestration. The student will be able to join existing projects, including the Great British Chemicals Centre for Sustainable Industrial Futures and Industrial funded project on Chemicals Decarbonisation and Grantham Centre for Sustainable Futures, gaining access to training, networking events, and conference participation.

We seek a highly motivated candidate with a background in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, environmental engineering, or a related discipline. A strong interest in sustainable development and environmental engineering is essential. Experience in life cycle assessment, carbon accounting, process modelling, or renewable feedstock processing would be advantageous.

Required qualifications:

• A degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, environmental engineering, or equivalent (MEng high 2.1 or above; exceptional BEng candidates will also be considered)
• Excellent technical written and verbal communication skills
• Strong time management and ability to meet deadlines
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

If English is not your first language then you must have an International English Language Testing System(IELTS) average of 6.5 or above with at least 6.0 in each component, or equivalent. Please see this link for further information: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply/english-language.

How to apply:

Please see this link for information on how to apply: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/cbe/postgraduate/phd/how-apply. Please include the name of your proposed supervisor and the title of the PhD project within your application.

Funding Notes

The project will be fully funded by the School of Chemical, Materials, and Biological Engineering:

The studentship covers tuition fees, a tax-free stipend and consumables for the duration of the 3.5 year programme. The stipend rate for the academic year 2024/25 is £19,237. The stipend will rise with inflation each academic year following UKRI standard.

This funding scheme is ideally suited to UK candidates, but Overseas candidates can be considered if they have the means to cover the difference in fees.