Development of Solid-State Composites for Safe and Efficient Hydrogen Storage

About the Project

Hydrogen, as a clean and versatile energy carrier, is expected to play a pivotal role in decarbonising sectors including repurposed gas transportation and transmission networks. Its high gravimetric energy density (120–142 kJ/kg, approximately 2.7 times that of gasoline), combined with zero CO₂ emissions upon combustion, positions hydrogen as a key component in strategies aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Consequently, the development of high–energy-density hydrogen storage technologies is essential for enabling the practical use of hydrogen as an energy carrier from production to end applications.

Solid-state hydrogen storage materials offer enhanced safety, higher volumetric density, lower operating pressure, reduced temperature sensitivity, and simpler system operation, making them a promising approach for hydrogen storage and transportation. Nevertheless, current solid-state hydrogen storage materials still suffer from sluggish absorption/desorption kinetics and limited cycling stability, while physisorption-based materials typically exhibit low hydrogen storage capacities at ambient temperatures due to weak van der Waals interactions.

This PhD project aims to overcome the key limitations of existing hydrogen storage materials and to advance the development of practical, high-performance storage systems. By engineering solid state composites, the study seeks to enhance interfacial bonding, accelerate hydrogen absorption and desorption kinetics, and maintain structural stability over repeated charging–discharging cycles. The underlying mechanisms governing hydrogen storage capacity will be systematically investigated through comprehensive analyses of microstructural evolution, mechanical property variations, and hydrogen absorption/desorption behavior. These insights will inform the rational design of next-generation hydrogen storage and transmission materials, thereby strengthening the UK’s leadership in renewable energy technologies. Successful implementation of these materials could expand hydrogen utilization in sectors such as automotive and aviation, reduce energy costs, and contribute significantly to global decarbonization efforts.

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

At Manchester we offer a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level, to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers applying for competition and self-funded projects.

For more information, visit our funding page or search our funding database for specific scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor(s) for this project before you apply. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

Dr Peng Gong: peng.gong@manchester.ac.uk

How to apply

Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it).
• Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• English Language certificate (if applicable)

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk.