PhD Study : Large-scale premixed combustion modelling and simulations

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Summary

Pressure and thermal effects from large-scale deflagrations can be extremely hazardous due to the transition of initially laminar premixed combustion to the fast deflagration and finally through deflagration-to-detonation transition (DDT) to detonation. The role of various flame front instabilities and combustion acceleration mechanisms, especially in confined and congested environment, is still not fully understood. Moreover, the interaction and thus development and elimination dynamics for each of different instabilities and mechanisms is not yet clarified. Modelling and simulation of transitional phenomena in premixed combustion with interplay of different instabilities and acceleration mechanisms remains a challenging problem for combustion society. This is particularly true for the problems relevant to large-scales accidents.

The Ulster multi-phenomena deflagration model is under continuous development during last two decades. The multi-phenomena model currently accounts for the dependence of burning velocity on changing during combustion pressure and temperature of unburnt mixture, turbulence generated by flame front itself, turbulence in unburnt mixture, increase of burning rate due to preferential diffusion in stretched curved flames in turbulent flame brush, fractal structure of turbulent flame front, etc. The research on inclusion of Richtmyer-Meshkov instability has been carried out recently. The model has been under continuous validation against a growing number of large-scale experiments, primarily hydrogen-air deflagrations, DDT and even detonations.

It is expected that a candidate will develop the model further using the state-of-the-art in the field and expand the validation domain to the following problems of practical importance: delayed ignition of highly turbulent hydrogen jets, flame propagation through large-scale flammable mixture in congested geometry, deflagration-to-detonation transition, coherent deflagrations during vented gaseous explosions, etc. Experimental data on large-scale deflagrations are available for use as validation tests from previous projects (in which Ulster University was a partner), our partners in various European projects, and in literature.

The candidate will focus on CFD modelling and numerical simulations, use relevant software (ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, etc.), multi-processor Linux-based hardware, etc. The results of this doctoral research will be used in HySAFER’s externally funded projects and should be reported at international conferences. Publication of results in peer reviewed journals is expected

This is a 4-year integrated PhD project funded via Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Hydrogen (CDT SusHy). The CDT is a collaboration between the Universities of Nottingham, Loughborough, Birmingham and Ulster. The Centre has four overarching centre objectives:

1.Deliver high quality transdisciplinary training, covering fundamental science, applied engineering, and systems issues and build an appreciation of societal barriers to innovation.

2.Through innovation opportunities, build initiative and stimulate an entrepreneurial mind-set.

3.Deliver “industry ready” doctorates who have a comprehensive skill set and experiences.

4.Co-create research ideas and undertake in partnership with our stakeholders, cutting edge investigations of hydrogen-based solutions to deep decarbonisation of the energy systems.

The Centre is seeking to train at least 67 PhDs across five years of intake to achieve the mass uptake of hydrogen technologies in the UK and beyond. Further project information is available here.

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.

Funding and eligibility

The University offers the following levels of support:

Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)

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

These fully funded scholarships include a tax-free stipend of £16,909 per annum, subject to satisfactory progress over a 4 year period, tuition fees, and a research budget. These awards are open to home/EU and overseas applicants.

The Doctoral College at Ulster University

Key dates

Submission deadline
Thursday 31 December 2020
12:00AM

Interview Date
Currently recruitment is open for the next student cohort expected to start in April 2021, interviews are anticipated later this year

Preferred student start date
April 2021

Applying

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Contact supervisor

Dr Dmitriy Makarov

Other supervisors