Salt Precipitation in Porous Media during CO2 Injection

About the Project

Salt formation in porous media is a critical phenomenon influencing a wide range of natural and industrial processes, including subsurface energy systems (e.g., CO₂ storage, geothermal operations), electrochemical devices, soil salinization, and water desalination technologies. The precipitation, transport, and redistribution of salts within porous structures can significantly alter pore morphology, permeability, wettability, and overall system performance.

This PhD project aims to develop a fundamental understanding of salt formation mechanisms in porous media across multiple scales. The research will focus on the coupling between fluid flow, ion transport, phase change, and crystallization processes under varying thermodynamic and hydrodynamic conditions. Particular attention will be given to how pore-scale heterogeneity, confinement effects, and interfacial phenomena influence nucleation, crystal growth, and deposition patterns.

The project will combine experimental techniques with pore-scale and continuum-scale modeling approaches. The candidate will develop and apply computational tools to simulate reactive transport and precipitation processes, enabling predictive insights into salt accumulation and its impact on transport properties.

Eligibility

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

1. A First-Class (or equivalent international) degree at MSc or BSc level from a leading university in engineering, physics, applied mathematics, or a related discipline.
2. A strong background in engineering, with a clear understanding of flow and transport processes in porous media. Proficiency in scientific programming (Python, C++, or Fortran) is essential.
3. Demonstrated strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with familiarity in numerical methods and an interest in multiphysics modelling.
4. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, alongside a high level of motivation.
5. Experience in porous media, reservoir simulation, thermodynamics, or computational fluid dynamics is desirable.

Funding

This 3.5 year PhD is for self funded students.

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. These schemes are extremely competitive and only excellent applicants may be nominated for these scholarships.

Before you apply

Before you apply, please ensure that you meet the essential criteria and have relevant background knowledge in porous media flow and computational modelling.

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.