Low-emission ammonia combustion through smart material design

We invite applications for a PhD project focused on fundamental research into novel low-emission ammonia combustion/oxidation processes. This position is based within the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Nottingham contributing to cutting edge research into clean and sustainable energy technologies. 

Vision and aim

Ammonia is an essential component of the global strategy to achieve net-zero emissions. As a carbon-free fuel it holds great promise for decarbonising energy-intensive sectors such as power generation and shipping. However, its practical use in combustion systems remains limited by two challenges: poor reactivity and undesirable nitrogen emission. Due to its high ignition temperature and substantial activation energy, ammonia is difficult to ignite and sustain combustion in conventional systems. Meanwhile, nitrogen oxides and nitrous oxides can form in significant quantities. Existing strategies such as fuel blending, catalytic combustion, or post-combustion treatment often face trade-offs between efficiency, cost, and emission control. To fully realise ammonia’s potential as a clean energy carrier a fundamental rethinking of the combustion process is needed.

This PhD project will investigate low-NOₓ and low-N₂O route ammonia utilisation through advanced catalytic material design. In this interdisciplinary research you will not only benefit from the expertise from University of Nottingham but also work closely with collaborators, for exmaple at the University of Cambridge and Newcastle University.

The aim is to develop and understand a new reaction scheme for ammonia combustion with reduced nitrogen emissions. In this interdisciplinary project you will:

• Review the state-of-the-art technologies for ammonia combustion/oxidation
• Conduct theory-driven material screening and develop advanced materials for low-emission ammonia conversion
• Perform both experimental investigations and computational simulations of the combustion process

The outcome of this project will demonstrate the feasibility of a low emission approach to ammonia utilisation contributing directly to the realisation of engineering net-zero.

Candidate requirements

• 1st class or equivalent in chemical engineering, material science, chemistry, mechanical engineering, or a related discipline. 2:1 may be considered if other criteria are met
• Good writing, analytical, and communication skills
• Self-motivation 

Funding

Upon finding a suitable candidate, the applicant will go through an internal competition for funding. 

Eligibility and how to apply

Open to UK and international candidates.

Please email your CV, academic transcripts, and a cover letter outlining your experiences and research interests to Dr Yaoyao Zheng at Yaoyao.Zheng@nottingham.ac.uk. Informal enquiries can also be sent to this email.

Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until a suitable candidate is appointed.