Bath Engineering & Design Studentships: Critical material recovery and regeneration across the Hydrogen Value chain through scaled electrochemical engineering

This project is one of a number in competition for a studentship from the Faculty of Engineering and Design at the University of Bath. If successful, this studentship is expected to commence 04 October 2027.

An alternative start date may be possible if agreed with your intended supervisors and the Doctoral College.

Hydrogen technology is critical for a successful transition and a prosperous green industrial future but commonly relies on critical materials. The technologies to recover, regenerate and recycle these critical materials as they flow across the value chain are not fully developed and not sufficient. This exciting and novel project explores scaling electrochemical techniques to recover these materials from end-of-life components and waste streams to regenerate them as useful catalysts. Specifically developing particle accelerated electrochemical additive manufacture and unique electrochemical dissolution. 

The project will utilize the world class knowledge, cutting edge equipment and vibrant research community at the University of Bath to push the boundary of possibilities in regenerative technology. The technique uses particles within a 3d controlled impinging jet creating enhanced deposition from low concentration waste solutions to manufacture designed 3d catalytic structures. The PhD will develop the 3d printing set-up exploring the effect of particle type, solution composition, printing pattern and material selection on the composite structures formed. Analysing their subsequent catalytic performance when using feedstock solutions derived from pollutant and waste sources.

Focusing on the recovery and electrochemistry of Pt, Ir and Ni from industrial waste streams resulting from recycling hydrogen technology and with the final aim of recovering iron and copper from polluted environments. It will answer the challenges of; how can materials be regenerated from low-concentration waste solutions economically and how can they be recovered without high energy demands or harsh hazardous chemicals. Throughout the project the student will explore the scale up of electrochemical technologies, electrochemistry, electrolysis and electrochemical engineering alongside key characterisation techniques such as electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, depth from defocus microscopy (3d topography). Additionally, learning the context of the work through the key aspects of sustainable development, environmental economics and mass flows across supply chains.  

This innovative project will delivery exciting opportunities for the student developing cutting-edge technology impacting the real-world viability of Hydrogen and contributing to a sustainable future.