Material degradation study of energy storage materials for renewable technologies PhD Self-funded PhD opportunity

This is a self-funded PhD position to work with Dr Adnan Syed in the Surface Engineering and Precision Centre. The PhD project will focus on studying high temperature corrosion mechanisms in detail to identify material degradation in extreme environments. A novel technique/method will be developed with focus on better prediction and more accurate measurement of high temperature corrosion rate involving mathematical models validated through simulation, experiments, and analysis.

CSP technologies use a mirror configuration that concentrates solar energy onto a receiver, which converts it to heat. The heat is then converted into steam to drive a turbine that produces electrical power. CSP plants can use thermal energy storage systems (TES) to store the power until it is needed, for example during periods of minimal sunlight. A fluid (often molten salts) is heated inside the receiver and used to generate steam, which drives a turbine generator.

The alloy material of TES systems is prone to high temperature corrosion attack because of the corrosive nature of molten salt. Salt deposits and direct contact with alloy materials at elevated temperatures cause high-temperature corrosion. The lack of ability for early detection and timely prevention of high temperature corrosion has resulted in many TES failures leading to long-term maintenance and replacement of parts.

You will investigate various alloy types and corrosion testing methods to determine a suitable alloy and coating system. The project includes a detailed literature survey leading to the development of a test matrix covering test conditions and the type of alloys used (bare or coated). Testing will be conducted in Cranfield's high temperature corrosion laboratory. A detailed analytical phase for better understanding of microstructure requires working with advanced microscopy tools such as SEM/EDX, FIB and TEM. Dimensional metrology will be used for metal loss evaluation. Thermodynamic calculations using FactSage software will also be employed, along with electrochemical characterisation techniques using online electrochemistry to interpret corrosion rates.

Research outcomes will:
- Enable early failure identification
- Enable material selection criteria for alloys and coatings systems
- Increase knowledge of alloy and coating material performance in extreme environments
- Improve TES material outcomes

Although the research focuses on TES, by changing testing conditions, the technology developed could be adapted for aerospace and thermal power applications.

You will work in a multidisciplinary environment consisting of material scientists, chemists, engineers, and physicists. During the PhD, you will gain experience working at the intersection of several research fields. This self-funded PhD project includes the ability to participate in industry-led research initiatives and access to the Cranfield Doctoral Training Network. There is the opportunity to attend international conferences in the UK and overseas.

You will gain knowledge of high temperature materials applications for the energy and aerospace sectors, understanding of alloy material behaviour in aggressive conditions, and micro-level analysis of material structure at the atomic level. You will develop skills in presenting results to small and large groups via conference presentations and meetings.

At the end of the PhD, you will have become a well-rounded independent scientist with the possibility to progress your career either in academia or industry in areas from material science and engineering to energy materials.

Entry Requirements: Candidates should have a minimum of an upper second (2:1) honours degree (or equivalent) preferably in Chemistry, Material Science, Physics, Mechanical Engineering or related fields. Candidates with an MSc degree in these disciplines will be desirable.

Funding: Self-funded. Open to UK, EU and international applicants.