PhD Study : Performance Study and Validation of the Downdraft Biomass Gasification Process for CHP Plants

Summary

The world will need increased energy supply in the near future due to the rapid growth of economies. It is greatly desired that fossil fuels can be replaced by biofuels to minimise environmental impact. The main goal of proposed project is to perform a comprehensive performance analysis of the effects of parameters in supply chain management, pre-treatment and conversion of forestry-wood by-products, with a focus on the use of biomass gasification for electricity and heat production. The activities towards to bioenergy could be: (1) Process modelling – the student will develop the feedstock supply chain and gasification kinetic models for the integrated biomass gasification CHP system. The models developed (e.g. syngas composition and syngas yield for gasifier operation) will be used to evaluate technical, economic and environmental performance of micro-generation fuelled by biomass in the building sector. (2) Experimental study and model validation – the student will carry out a series of experimental work and the analyses of selected feedstocks at the range of process conditions and collect pilot test data. Model validation work will be applied by using the test results. (3) Process integration – the syngas produced by a downdraft gasifier will be then cleaned up and fed to an internal combustion engine/or fuel cells for a combined heat and power application. (4) Assessment – techno-economic and environmental assessment for the full bioenergy production chain will be carried out.

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
• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• Practice-based research experience and/or dissemination
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Interreg V Bryden

The University offers the following levels of support:

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living

This project is supported by the European Union's INTERREG VA Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).

Interreg V Bryden - This scholarship will cover tuition fees and a maintenance award of not less than £14,777 per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance). Applications are invited from UK, European Union and overseas students.