Hydrogen production via methane pyrolysis using low-cost renewable energy 

Project description 

Turquoise hydrogen is produced from natural gas pyrolysis either in molten catalysts or via thermal cracking at high temperature, co-producing black carbons for carbon storage or other uses. Utilising renewable thermal energy to drive the pyrolysis process can further reduce the carbon intensity of hydrogen production. In this project, Adelaide University and industry partner 1414 Degrees aim to develop a new reactor based on the SiPHyR technique, which integrates licensed designs from the University with 1414 Degrees’ silicon based thermal energy storage technology, SiBrick®, to enable continuous hydrogen production from intermittent renewable electricity. The PhD student(s) will join the project to conduct experimental and/or numerical studies related to the reactor development and process optimisation under supervisions of senior researchers from AU and 1414D.

Research objectives

1. To systematically study flow dynamics relevant to reactor design using optical diagnosing methods, followed by image processing, which may include machine learning-based techniques. This suits Mechanical Engineering students.
2. To systematically study chemical reaction kinetics relevant to reactor design using optical diagnosing methods and standard analysis tools, followed by carbon particle characterisation and techno-economic assessment (TEA). This suits Chemical Engineering students.
3. Numerical simulations may also be conducted to assess the reliability of existing modelling tools by comparing them with experimental results. Once validated, numerical modelling will be conducted to assist the reactor design.
4. The objectives of this industry co-funded PhD program also include an internship at the industry partner site to join experiments and characterization of carbon particles collected from a reactor.

Eligibility criteria 

This opportunity is open to Australian citizens, permanent residents and international students who meet the requirements for PhD admission at Adelaide University, and who can demonstrate suitable experience in a related field (through a high quality Honours or Masters degree). The successful candidate must be able to enrol as a full-time PhD student at the University in the year of the offer. They must remain based in Adelaide, South Australia for the duration of the award.

Stipend

An Adelaide University Research Scholarship will be paid for 3.75 years at a stipend rate of $36,500 per annum (indexed annually). It is likely to be tax exempt, subject to Taxation Office approval. International students will receive single overseas student health cover for the duration of candidature, and a relocation allowance (if applicable). Details of terms and benefits will be provided to the successful candidate in their Conditions of Award.

Application process 
To apply, please email the following documents to Dr Zhiwei Sun (zhiwei.sun@adelaide.edu.au) with the name of the scholarship in the subject line:

• CV
• Cover Letter (of not more than 2 pages) outlining your interest in the PhD project and describing how your background and research area align with the project
• Degree certificates and relevant academic transcripts, with translations of non-English documentation