Study of Hydrodynamics and Interfacial Electrochemistry in Next-Generation Membraneless Fuel Cells

About the Project

Current fuel-cell technologies suffer from major limitations associated with the use of polymer electrolyte membranes (PEMs), including high material cost, fuel crossover, membrane degradation, water management challenges, and lack of long-term operational stability. These issues are particularly severe in liquid fuel cells, such as direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs), where fuel crossover and membrane deterioration significantly reduce both efficiency and durability.

This PhD project will investigate a radically new electrochemical architecture in which the conventional membrane is replaced by a dynamic gas–liquid interface. The concept is based on the generation of a stratified gas (oxidant) –liquid (fuel) flow within milli- and microchannels, enabling the formation of a stable interface that spatially separates the anode and cathode. The successful candidate will experimentally investigate the coupled hydrodynamic and electrochemical phenomena governing the operation of the proposed fuel cell and will develop Alpha prototypes.

The project combines knowledge of chemical engineering, electrochemistry, and multiphase flows, offering a unique opportunity to work at the frontier of sustainable energy research.

Eligibility

Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) a first-class or high 2:1 degree (or international equivalent) in: Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related disciplines. Experience in one or more of the following areas is desirable; electrochemistry, microfluidics, multiphase flows, fuel cells, experimental fluid mechanics. Strong experimental skills and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research are essential.

Funding

This 3.5 year PhD project is for self funded students only.