Integrated CO₂ Co-Electrolysis and Biomass-Derived Hydrogen for Green Ammonia Production

Ammonia is a high-hydrogen, zero-carbon chemical with properties similar to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), allowing for the use of existing storage, transport, and terminal equipment. Its ease of liquefaction and established supply chain make ammonia a crucial component in the rapidly expanding hydrogen economy for hydrogen storage and transport. Consequently, ammonia will play a significant role in achieving the UK Government’s 2030 target for low-carbon hydrogen production. Additionally, ammonia can be used as a green fertilizer and shipping fuel. Green ammonia is seen as one of the most promising decarbonisation options for large scale maritime applications. Global production of ammonia currently stands at 176 million tonnes per year and is expected to grow exponentially with the hydrogen economy. Most ammonia is currently produced via the Haber-Bosch process, under severe operating conditions while being fed by fossil fuels.

The aim of this project is to develop a novel process for negative-carbon ammonia production by (a) using biomass gasification syngas as the feedstock; (b)demonstrating a system-level moderation of operating condition (at a pressure ~20 times lower than the pressure of Haber-Bosch process); (c) harvesting system-level opportunities for cost and carbon reduction.

The key outcomes of this project will be: 1. Decarbonising ammonia production through moderation of process condition (rather than severe operating conditions of Habber Bosch process, 200 bars) 2. Defossilising the Hydrogen sources required for green ammonia.

The successful applicant should hold a first-class or upper second-class honours degree, or an equivalent qualification, in a relevant discipline such as chemical engineering, energy engineering, environmental engineering, chemistry, or energy systems. A relevant master’s degree is desirable but not essential.

Essential:

Process Modelling and Simulation

Aspen simulation

Programming languages such as MATLAB or Python

Experimental experiences

Strong writing skill

Strong communication skills

Desirable:

Knowledge of electrolysis and gasification routes for hydrogen production

This project is open to Home students ONLY, covers all tuition fees and includes a stipend at current UKRI rates. The project also includes a Research Training and Support Grant.

Please note that the successful candidate will be responsible for any expenses related to moving to Birmingham and/or visiting the Aston campus. 

Further information can be found here: Financial Requirements | Aston University

We can only consider applications that are complete and have all supporting documents. Applications that do not provide all the relevant documents will be automatically rejected. Your application must include: 

1.  English language copies of the transcripts and certificates for all your higher education degrees, including any Bachelor degrees.
2. A Research Statement detailing your understanding of the research area, how you would approach the project, and a brief review of relevant literature. Be sure to use the title of the research project you are applying for. There is no set format or word count. 
3. A personal statement which outlines any further information which you think is relevant to your application, such as your personal suitability for research, career aspirations, possible future research interests, and further description of relevant employment experience. 
4. A Curriculum Vitae (Resume) which details your education and work history. 
5. Two academic referees who can discuss your suitability for independent research. References must be on headed paper, signed and dated no more than 2 years old. At least one reference should be from your most recent University. You can submit your references at a later date if necessary. 
6. Evidence that you meet the English Language requirements. If you do not currently meet the language requirements, you can submit this at a later stage. 
7. A copy of your passport. Where relevant, include evidence of settled or pre-settled status.

If you require further information about the application process, please contact the Postgraduate Admissions team at pgr_admissions@aston.ac.uk.

When submitting an application please select: 

Research Group*               (EPS) Chemical Engineering

International Applicants 

The opportunity is for HOME students only

Interviews 

Interviews will be conducted online via Microsoft Teams. If you are shortlisted, you will be contacted directly with details of the interview.  
 

Studying a PhD is great route into academia and industries that are centred on research and innovation. Areas with a demand for very high level and specialised research skills often demand PhDs.

In addition to this specialist knowledge, PhD education will help you to develop a set of valuable transferrable skills. The very nature of studying an intensive research degree will enable you to become a team player, develop problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and advanced presentation and communication skills.

The variety of PhD project topics at Aston means that the destinations of our graduates vary substantially. Some choose to continue into academia, at either Aston or other leading institutions, while others go onto use their newly acquired skills in a range of research, healthcare, industry or charitable fields. When selecting your chosen PhD path at Aston, your supervisor will be able to provide you with relevant career opportunities that could be available to you in your specialist area.