PhD Studentship - Hybrid Cellulose–Metal Foam Phase Change Composites for Thermal Energy Storag[...] in Norwich

Phase change materials (PCMs) offer compact, temperature-targeted thermal energy storage but suffer from leakage during melting, low thermal conductivity and limited mechanical robustness, which restrict their integration into practical systems. Recent work of the supervisory team has demonstrated a new class of cellulose–metal foam hybrid PCM composites, in which polyethylene glycol provides latent heat storage, carboxymethylated cellulose (CMC) prevents leakage, and lightweight open-cell aluminium foams deliver enhanced thermal conductivity and structural support.

By decoupling shape stabilisation from thermal transport, this hybrid approach significantly reduces the amount of metal required, enabling lighter and more efficient storage media. This PhD project will build on these findings to design, manufacture and characterise next-generation lightweight hybrid PCM composites for applications such as building-integrated thermal storage, electronics and battery thermal management, and compact thermal buffers in energy systems.

The core of the project will be experimental, focusing on tailoring the composite architecture (cellulose chemistry, foam pore density, relative density, foam alloy and surface treatments) and PCM selection (molecular weight, transition temperature range) to match different operating temperatures and cycling conditions. Thermophysical characterisation will include measurements of thermal conductivity, effective heat capacity, latent heat and density, as well as thermal cycling stability and mechanical integrity under repeated melting–solidification.

The successful applicant will join the Thermofluids Research Lab at School of Engineering, Mathematics and Physics at the University of East Anglia and work within a growing thermal engineering and materials research environment. Collaboration opportunities exist with external partners and with academic collaborators in chemical and materials engineering across the EU.

This PhD project is offered on a self-funded basis – applicants must have access to funds to cover tuition fees, living costs and any additional research-related expenses. Guidance on potential funding routes and cost estimates can be provided to shortlisted candidates.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements are a 2:1 Bachelor's and a Master's in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Energy Engineering, or Chemistry.

Mode of Study

Full or Part time

Start date

1 June 2027

Funding

This project is offered on a self-funded basis. It is open to applicants who are self-funded or who are in the process of securing external funding. A bench fee is payable in addition to the tuition fee, to cover the cost of specialist equipment and laboratory facilities required for the research. Applicants should contact the primary supervisor for details of the bench fee applicable to this project. If you are part of the UEA alumni community, you may be eligible for a tuition fee discount. For information on doctoral funding, visit our Postgraduate Student Loans page.