Application of CCUS in Critical Mineral Extraction from Subsurface Reservoirs

About the Project

These projects are open to students worldwide, but have no funding attached. Therefore, the successful applicant will be expected to fund tuition fees at the relevant level (home or international) and any applicable additional research costs. Please consider this before applying.

The extraction of critical minerals from subsurface reservoirs is an essential component of meeting the growing global demand for materials used in renewable energy technologies, electronics, and other advanced industries. Simultaneously, there is a pressing need to reduce carbon emissions to mitigate climate change. Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) presents a unique opportunity to address both challenges by enhancing mineral recovery while also managing CO2 emissions. This PhD research will investigate the application of CCUS technologies in extracting critical minerals from various subsurface reservoirs, including geothermal reservoirs, salt caverns, and oil and gas fields, aiming to develop integrated, sustainable extraction processes.

Subsurface reservoirs such as geothermal, salt caverns, and depleted oil and gas reservoirs offer untapped potential for critical mineral extraction. The injection of CO2 into these reservoirs can serve dual purposes: enhancing the release of minerals and providing a storage solution for captured carbon. This research will explore how CO2 can be utilised to mobilise minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements. For instance, geothermal brines are often rich in critical minerals, and CO2 injection could enhance their recovery while also contributing to geothermal energy production. Similarly, salt caverns and depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs offer opportunities for both mineral extraction and long-term CO2 storage.

The research will adopt a multidisciplinary approach to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of integrating CCUS with mineral extraction. Key aspects will include studying the geochemical reactions between CO2 and mineral-bearing formations, optimising injection techniques for different reservoir types, and evaluating the environmental and economic impacts of these processes. The project will also explore the potential for synergistic benefits, such as using geothermal energy to power the extraction and CO2 injection processes, thereby creating a closed-loop system that maximizes resource utilization while minimizing carbon emissions.

By focusing on a range of subsurface reservoirs, this PhD project aims to develop comprehensive strategies that are adaptable to various geological settings. The outcomes will contribute to the advancement of sustainable mineral extraction technologies, aligning with global efforts to transition to a low-carbon economy. This research will be particularly valuable for regions with abundant subsurface resources, providing innovative solutions to balance resource extraction with environmental protection. The study will prepare students to lead in the development of cutting-edge technologies that integrate carbon management with resource extraction, addressing critical challenges in energy and environmental sustainability.

Decisions will be based on academic merit. The successful applicant should have, or expect to obtain, a UK Honours Degree at 2.1 (or equivalent) in Engineering (Fluid Mechanics, Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Oil and Gas Engineering) or Chemistry along with sufficient research background and previous experience.

Application Procedure:

Formal applications can be completed online: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/pgap/login.php.

You should apply for PhD in Engineering to ensure your application is passed to the correct team for processing.

Please clearly note the name of the lead supervisor and project titleon the application form. If you do not include these details, it may not be considered for the studentship.

Your application must include: A personal statement, an up-to-date copy of your academic CV, and clear copies of your educational certificates and transcripts.

Please note: you do not need to provide a research proposal with this application.

Informal enquiries can be made by contacting Dr R Rafati at roozbeh.rafati@abdn.ac.uk. If you require any additional assistance in submitting your application or have any queries about the application process, please don't hesitate to contact us at researchadmissions@abdn.ac.uk

Funding Notes

This is a self-funding project open to students worldwide. Our typical start dates for this programme are February or October.

Fees for this programme can be found here Finance and Funding | Study Here | The University of Aberdeen