Available Projects
The project list below helps self-funded and externally sponsored applicants (scholarship) connect with a prospective supervisor.
Applications are welcome from those who can support themselves or have funding already arranged. Such applications will go through the same level of academic assessment. Please see the fee arrangementsLink opens in a new window for PGR students.
Teaching zinc-air batteries to breathe in and out
Zinc-air batteries are cheap, safe and made from abundant elements, which makes them ideal for storing renewable energy. Two things hold them back: a sluggish air electrode and an unruly zinc anode. In this PhD you will design MOF-derived electrocatalysts for the oxygen reactions (OER/ORR) and engineer the zinc interface to stop dendrites, then bring both together in rechargeable cells that last.
Primary supervisor: Dr Volkan Degirmenci - V.Degirmenci@warwick.ac.uk
Project detail:
A rechargeable zinc-air battery has to 'breathe out' oxygen when charging and 'breathe in' when discharging, which needs a bifunctional catalyst that is active, stable and free of precious metals. You will turn metal-organic frameworks into carbon-supported single-atom and nanoparticle catalysts, test them for OER and ORR, and then build full cells with protective coatings and engineered zinc surfaces that keep dendrites in check. The project builds directly on recent work in the group, featured on the front cover of Materials Advances, so you will start on solid ground.
Specific eligibility requirements:
A first-class or strong 2:1 degree (or Master's) in chemical engineering, materials science, chemistry or a related subject. An interest in electrochemistry is a plus.
Informal enquiries are very welcome: please email V.Degirmenci@warwick.ac.uk.
How to apply for admission: www.warwick.ac.uk/pgrengineering
The University of Warwick provides an inclusive working and learning environment, recognising and respecting every individual’s differences. We welcome applications from individuals who identify with any of the protected characteristics defined by the Equality Act 2010.