Designing Innovative Thermal Batteries for Energy Storage: Biomimetic Solutions for a Sustainable Future

Apply and key information

This project is funded by:

Department for the Economy (DfE)

Summary

As the world transitions to cleaner energy, finding efficient ways to store and use renewable energy is critical for building a sustainable future. Renewable sources like solar and wind are abundant but intermittent, requiring innovative storage solutions to balance supply and demand. Thermal energy storage (TES) systems are key to reducing energy waste, cutting carbon emissions, and providing reliable energy when it’s needed most.

Phase change materials (PCMs) are substances capable of storing and releasing significant amounts of thermal energy as they transition between solid and liquid phases. This ability to leverage latent heat makes PCMs highly efficient for thermal energy storage. Latent heat thermal batteries using PCMs are particularly effective because they can store large amounts of energy at stable temperatures during these phase transitions. However, existing systems face challenges such as slow heat transfer, low thermal conductivity, and reduced reliability after repeated use.

This project will tackle these challenges by developing thermal storage materials with innovative structures inspired by nature, such as leaf-like and porous geometries. These designs will enhance heat transfer, improve charging and discharging efficiency, and increase system reliability. The research will include material characterization to enhance phase change materials, thermal performance testing to validate efficiency, and CFD simulations to optimize system performance. Together, these approaches will create robust, efficient solutions for renewable energy systems, electronics, and industrial processes. [1–7]

As a PhD student, you will engage in hands-on research involving material characterization, experimental testing, and CFD simulations. These valuable skills are essential for careers in academia and industry, allowing meaningful contributions to sustainable energy, advanced manufacturing, and innovation. This project provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative energy storage solutions, equipping you to play a significant role in shaping the future of clean and efficient energy systems.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

Department for the Economy (DfE)

These scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance). A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a UK National, or

Have settled status, or

Have pre-settled status, or

Have indefinite leave to remain or enter, or

be an Irish National

Applicants should also meet the residency criteria which requires that they have lived in the EEA, Switzerland, the UK or Gibraltar for at least the three years preceding the start date of the research degree programme.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.