Direct Air Capture (CO2 capture from the atmosphere) and Utilization

About the Project

The design of the forthcoming future is negative in emissions. Among the negative emission technologies options, those capturing CO2 directly from the air are called Direct Air Capture technologies. Direct Air Capture technologies are regarded as the solution having the biggest carbon removal potential but is also the least known. If Direct Air Capture had to be an essential measure, future society would deal with severe restrictions in energy availability [1].

However, using the captured atmospheric CO2 for conversion into chemicals and fuels has the right scale not to impinge in the energy system and attractive economic outlook.

In your studies you will work in the Emerging Sustainable Technologies Laboratory (ESTech Lab) [2], be part of a world leading research group in carbon capture towards the development of technological avenues for Direct Air Capture and Conversion into chemicals and fuels.

Your studies will be carried out at the Institute for Materials and Processes (IMP) and will include modelling activities. You will attain skills in modelling and design of new negative emission technologies and production paths.

Please note, the position will be filled once a suitable candidate has been identified.

[1] Santori et. al. Adsorption artificial tree for atmospheric carbon dioxide capture, purification and compression, Energy 162 (2018)1158-1168. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2018.08.090

[2] https://www.linkedin.com/in/giulio-santori-a365546/

Eligibility

Minimum entry qualification - an Honours degree at 2:1 or above (or International equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline, possibly supported by an MSc Degree. As well as:

• Proficiency with Computational Thermodynamics of Fluid Phase Equilibria
• Proficiency with at least one coding tool and related graphical user interface

Further information on English language requirements for EU/Overseas applicants.

Desirable criteria: knowledge of optimization methods.

Funding Notes

A number of scholarships are available to competitive candidates. For more information on the funding application process, please contact the project’s supervisor or visit the School of Engineering website.

Applications are also welcomed from self-funded students.