Design of Multifunctional Coated Silicate Particles for Thermal Energy Storage and Environmental Remediation

About the Project

Particle-based systems have recently attracted significant interest for thermal energy storage due to their simplicity, low cost, and technical advantages over alternative technologies. However, a major challenge remains the development of particulate materials with excellent thermo-mechanical stability that can withstand repeated heating-cooling cycles and mechanical stresses.

This PhD project will investigate the design and development of cost-effective natural silicate particles coated with advanced functional materials to enhance their thermal performance, mechanical resilience, and long-term durability. The research will combine materials synthesis, laboratory-scale testing, and advanced multiscale characterisation techniques to understand and optimise particle behaviour.

The project is highly interdisciplinary and sits at the interface of materials science, energy engineering, and environmental technologies. The project aims to develop techno-economically viable particulate materials for next-generation thermal energy storage systems, addressing key challenges in medium- to long-duration energy storage. In addition to thermal energy storage applications, the potential of the developed coated particles as adsorbent materials for environmental remediation will be explored and advanced.

As part of this project, the successful candidate will join an internationally leading research team at The University of Manchester and become part of a multi-institutional research programme involving leading UK industrial partners and more than 20 academic and research institutions across the UK, Europe, and the USA.

Eligibility

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline.

Funding

This 3.5-year PhD project is fully funded and home students are eligible to apply. The successful candidate will receive an annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£21,805 for 2026/27) and tuition fees will be paid. We expect the stipend to increase each year. The start date is October 2026.