|
 |
|||
Melbourne School of Engineering
|
||||
|
||||
|
|
|||
Melbourne School of Engineering
|
||||
|
||||
|
Graduate Students: Projects available for new studentsThe following is a list of PhD projects currently available for commencement immediately. Please check this page regularly to see which projects have been taken up, which are still available, and which have just been added. PhD Projects Available
Australian Mineral Science Research InstitutePhD Projects and ScholarshipsThe Australian Mineral Science Research Institute (AMSRI) was formed in 2006 to conduct research into fundamental phenomena that have an influence on mineral processing. The Institute is composed of researchers from four Universities, University of Melbourne, University of South Australia, University of Newcastle and University of Queensland. The Institute is jointly sponsored by the Federal Government (Australian Research Council) and a consortium of industry partners. The aim is to investigate research areas where quantum leap changes in mineral processing can be realised and to develop technologies to enable the new ideas to be taken up by industry. There are a number of projects at the University of Melbourne, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Mathematics Departments which are in need of talented post graduate research students. Scholarships to complete PhDs are available as APA (Industry) scholarships, ($25,627 per annum, tax free) or as a top up scholarship (from $10,000 per annum, tax free) for an applicant with their own funding. The scholarships are only available to Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents and New Zealand citizens. Applicants should have completed an undergraduate degree in Engineering or Science, such as Chemical Engineering, Mineral Processing, Chemistry, Mathematics, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science or other pertinent degree. The following is a list of the PhD topics on offer - For more information please contact: Compressibility and permeability of stimuli responsive suspensions: application to modelling mineral dewatering processesThe importance of efficient separation of water from solid particles in mineral processing, is gaining emphasis with increasing environmental regulation and economic rationalisation. High molecular weight polymers, called flocculants, are commonly used to induce aggregation and settling of slurry particles. This project investigates the development and use of flocculants that respond to stimuli such as changes in temperature or acidity, to manipulate particle-particle interactions. The approach provides a strategy for improving dewatering efficiency by producing both fast sedimentation of fine particles (by aggregation) and dense (low moisture) sediment beds. A stimulus is used to change the force between particles first to attractive. The particles then aggregate, rapidly settle and can be removed with a thickener. Then, by changing the inter-particle force back to repulsive, the particles in the sediment will undergo further consolidation resulting in additional expression of water from the solids suspension. The primary parameters which influence the performance of dewatering operations such as thickening are the suspension compressibility and permeability. The techniques to measure these properties and the models used to predict performance of dewatering operations in industry have been developed in our department over the past several years. The aim of the project is to measure these properties of suspensions when the stimuli responsive flocculants developed within our department are used. The results of the measurements will be used to determine the optimum time to "switch" the stimulus in order to recover the most water in the least time. One scholarship (full, or top-up of another scholarship, see above) for a PhD project is being offered to conduct the research project. The successful candidate should have a higher-end Honours degree demonstrating a relevant background for this project: possibilities include Chemical Engineering, Minerals Processing, Chemistry or Materials Science and Engineering. For more information please contact:
Smart polymer development and application as stimulant responsive flocculantsThe importance of efficient separation of water from solid particles in slurries produced from mining or paper milling processes, is gaining emphasis with increasing environmental regulation and economic rationalisation. High molecular weight polymers, called flocculants, are commonly used to induce aggregation and settling of slurry particles. This project investigates the development and use of flocculants that respond to stimuli such as changes in temperature or acidity, to manipulate particle-particle interactions. The approach provides a strategy for improving dewatering efficiency by producing both fast sedimentation of fine particles (by aggregation) and dense (low moisture) sediment beds. A stimulus is used to change the force between particles first to attractive. The particles then aggregate, rapidly settle and can be removed with a thickener. Then, by changing the inter-particle force back to repulsive, the particles in the sediment will undergo further consolidation resulting in additional expression of water from the solids suspension. There are several methods of controlling the inter-particle forces to be either attractive or repulsive. The use of pH, temperature or light sensitive “smart” polymers appears to have the potential for significant reduction in mineral tailings volume and enhanced water recovery. Preliminary results with model colloids indicate that for the pH controlled system up to 40% reduction in sediment volume is possible within three hours, and for the temperature sensitive system up to 13% reduction in sediment volume is possible in less that one day. The aim of the project is to synthesise novel homo- and co-polymers which respond to stimuli such as temperature and or light. The influence of polymer properties such as molecular weight, fraction of charged monomers and responsive unit chemistry on the polymer solution properties, polymer adsorption and suspension behaviour will be investigated. One scholarship (full, or top-up of another scholarship, see above) for a PhD project is being offered to conduct the research project. The successful candidate should have a higher-end Honours degree demonstrating a relevant background for this project: possibilities include Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or Materials Science and Engineering. For more information please contact: Multi-physics models for drop coalescence featuring mass transferThe engineering of reliable droplet coalescence or repulsion (if doable) is an attractive means of handling emulsified materials in a range of processing and waste applications, including the minerals industry. The large experimental program within the Department on Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is complemented by mathematical modeling efforts. These efforts are aimed at describing the dynamic interactions witnessed under the AFM, and applying the dynamic interfacial interactions modeling capability to engineering problems. A new problem of mathematical modeling interest in this area is drop coalescence involving solute mass transfer. Solute mass transfer introduces new phenomenology into the coalescence problem, including possibilities ranging from enhanced drop repulsion to enhanced coalescence, enhanced mass transfer rates, and the intriguing phenomena that makes up of "interfacial turbulence". Relevant length scales in the problem range from mm-scale drop deformations and bulk flow currents, to atomic-scale interfacial interactions and thermodynamics-driven droplet formation. Theoretical modeling has been most successful in bridging between length scales with ease, but mass transfer and interfacial turbulence represent major challenges requiring significant model upgrades. This project therefore embraces both theoretical and (increasingly) computational efforts. One scholarship (full, or top-up of another scholarship, see above) for a PhD project is being offered to conduct the research project. The successful candidate should have a higher-end Honours degree demonstrating a relevant background for this project: possibilities include Chemical Engineering, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering and Physics. Demonstrated background in theoretical modeling, MD/MC, CFD, multiphysics and multiscale modelling is valued. For more information please contact:
Influence of particle stabilized foams on collection efficiency in flotationPhD ProjectFlotation is a major process used to separate valuable minerals from clays, silica and other non valuable materials in many mineral processing operations. The process involves the use of surfactants to attach the valuable materials to the air - water interface. This project aims to measure the colloidal and interfacial forces at the gas liquid interface using the atomic force microscope. Comparing the forces for the bare air - water interface with interfaces covered with fine dispersions of clay for example will help to understand the role of these fine particles in the flotation process. This information is vital to the minerals industry in controlling its water usage and its long term sustainability. Interested applicants should send their resume including a transcript of academic results to date and contact details for at least two referees to: Dr Raymond Dagastine and/or Professor Geoff Stevens
NanobiotechnologyPhD ProjectsNanobiotechnology will play an important role for both industry and society in the future. The development of advanced nanomaterials is vital to this cause, with such materials holding promise for drug delivery, tissue engineering, advanced electronic and optical devices, as well as for membrane separations, sensors and patterning. There has been rapid, world-wide growth and progress in this exciting and challenging field. The award of an ARC Federation Fellowship to Professor Frank Caruso has enabled new research opportunities in nanobiotechnology. Research projects include targeted drug delivery, novel MRI contrast materials, engineered biochemical microreactors, mesoporous materials and polymer nanostructures. These projects will be conducted in collaboration with leading biomedical institutes in Melbourne, including the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, the Baker Heart Medical Research Institute, the Bionic Ear Institute, and the Austin Hospital. Applications are invited for Ph.D. scholarships. Applicants should have completed a degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, biology, chemical engineering or a related discipline. Applicants will also need to have excellent communication and presentation skills and the ability to work well as part of a team. A capacity to show initiative and work independently when necessary is also highly regarded. Challenging and innovative projects will be designed with successful applicants. Highly motivated candidates interested in working in this dynamic area, and who would like to be engaged in interdisciplinary research in an international team - are asked to send a resume including a transcript of academic results and contact details for at least two referees to: Professor Frank Caruso More info: here [pdf]
Chemical Kinetic Modeling for Biofuel Combustion and Atmospheric ChemistrySeveral projects are available for talented Chemical Engineers and Chemists interested in modeling atmospheric chemistry and the combustion of renewable fuels. Renewable fuels research includes developing and implementing models for oxidation and pyrolysis of ethanol, biodiesel, and biomass. Atmospheric chemistry research focuses on elementary reactions in the ozone cycle, and the formation and destruction of atmospheric toxins and pollutants (e.g. soot, persistent free radicals, NOx, SOx). Students will be trained in state-of-the-art techniques in computational chemistry (ab initio and DFT), reaction rate theory and/or mechanism development and reduction. Funding for a full PhD scholarship is available for a project in the above areas. Prospective candidates should have a strong Honours degree in Chemical Engineering, Physical Chemistry, or Mechanical Engineering. To apply, please contact: Dr Gabriel da Silva
Controlled Macromolecular Architectures for Functional Nanomaterial DesignPhD ProjectWe are seeking highly motivated and creative scientists to work on nanostructured thin films and colloid surface modification. The projects involve the assembly, characterisation and application of novel water-soluble macromolecules to planar and colloidal supports. Techniques including quartz crystal microgravimetry, atomic force microscopy, surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy, microelectrophoresis and electron microscopy will be used to examine the materials prepared. The projects will be conducted at the Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The University of Melbourne, in collaboration with the Centre for Advanced Macromolecular Design at UNSW. Interstate travel may be required. Funding is available immediately. An undergraduate degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, biochemistry or materials science is required. Candidates interested in working in this dynamic area, and who would like to be engaged in interdisciplinary research in an international team should send an application, including curriculum vitae, and names and addresses of three referees to: Professor Frank Caruso More info: here [pdf]
The Bionic Ear Institute and the Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Melbourne.PhD ProjectApplications are invited from highly motivated PhD candidates who are willing to work across disciplines and have at least an H1 or H2A Honours degree in Physics, Chemistry or any of the biological sciences. The Bionic Ear Institute is a not-for-profit biomedical research organization established to undertake vital research to assist in the ongoing development of devices that would allow deaf people to communicate. In conjunction with the University of Melbourne's Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering we are offering an exciting opportunity to work on the following challenging project. Therapeutic potential of drug-encapsulated nanoparticles in treating sensorineural hearing lossWe have identified distinct drugs which can halt the degeneration of primary auditory neurons. Under the supervision of Prof. Frank Caruso (Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Melbourne), the Ph D candidate will synthesise different formulations of nanoparticles encapsulating these drugs using the latest techniques in nanotechnology. Together with Dr. Justin Tan and Prof. Rob Shepherd (The Bionic Ear Institute), the successful PhD candidate will then evaluate the biological activity and stability of these drug-encapsulated nanoparticles using both in vitro and in vivo neuroscience methods. Funding is available for a PhD scholarship, although it would be highly advantageous if the candidate was eligible for an APA or University based Ph D scholarship. For further information, please contact Prof Rob Shepherd (rshepherd@bionicear.org) or visit the following websites: www.bionicear.org/bei/ResProtectiveEffects.html www.chemeng.unimelb.edu.au/people/staff/caruso.html
2007/881 OCE Postgraduate Scholarship 2007 - Nano-click biomedical interfacesPhD Project - International Applicants WelcomeCSIRO Molecular and Health Technologies - Clayton, VIC Applications are invited for a CSIRO OCE Postgraduate Scholarship in the research area of Nanobiotechnology and Surface Chemistry. This is a three year postgraduate appointment co-hosted by CSIRO Molecular and Health Technologies (Dr Ben Muir) and the Nanostructured Interfaces & Materials Science group at Melbourne University (Dr Georgina Such). To be negotiated with the successful applicant. Closing Date: 31 Oct 2007
Transfer across a Liquid InterfacePhD Project (listed July 07)We are seeking a PhD student interested in the processes that control the movement of solutes across interfaces. Applicants should have recently completed a degree in chemical engineering or chemistry with honours (H2A or H1). The successful applicant will join a team of researchers to examine how solutes move through liquid interfaces and how surfactants, modifiers and other molecules influence this process. This is a multidisciplinary project including collaboration with chemistry and mathematics and involvement in real industrial problems. Interested applicants should send their resume including a transcript of academic results to date and contact details for at least two referees to: Professor Geoff Stevens
Separation of CO2 from Flue Gases for Greenhouse Gas RecoveryPhD Project (listed July 07)We are seeking a PhD student interested in developing innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This project will examine the potential for the use of membrane gas absorption to significantly reduce the cost of separation of CO2 from pre and post combustion gases. The work involves membrane modification and characterization, process integration and process development. You will be working in a large international team with large scale demonstration facilities examining how this technology can be best applied. Interested applicants should send their resume including a transcript of academic results to date together with contact details for at least two referees to: Professor Geoff Stevens
Antarctic ProjectPhD ProjectDevelopment of in situ and on site technologies for low-cost metal remediation in cold regionsWe are seeking up to two PhD students in the area of remediation of heavy metals contaminated sites in cold regions. Applicants should have recently completed a degree in chemical engineering or chemistry with honours (H2A or H1). The successful applicant/s would join a team of researchers in the Particulate Fluids Processing Centre in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Melbourne. There will also be significant co-operation with researchers at the Australian Antarctic Division as well as commercial industry partners. There are two complimentary areas of research which will be studied. The first research topic is the use of zeolites for nutrient release and removal of heavy metals from ground water. This research is divided into two areas:
The second research topic is the development of chemical stabilisation techniques for the in-situ immobilisation of metals at contaminated sites. These research projects will have important benefits for the effective remediation of contaminated sites in cold regions such as the Arctic, sub-Antarctic islands and Antarctica. It is envisaged there will be a field component of the research either in Canada, at Casey station in Antarctica or sub-Antarctic Macquarie Island. For more information about the project, please contact Professor Geoff Stevens. To apply, please send a resume including a transcript of your academic results to date and contact details for at least two referees as soon as possible to: Professor Geoff Stevens and/or Dr Meenakshi Arora More info: here [pdf]
Emulsion SystemsPhD ProjectCoalescence phenomena and liquid-liquid systemsWe are seeking a PhD student to conduct a research project in the area of emulsion behaviour and coalescence phenomena. Applicants should have recently completed a degree in chemical engineering or chemistry with honours (H2A or H1). This project investigates the dynamic interfacial forces between oil-water interfaces using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). AFM methods will be used to measure both static and hydrodynamic forces between two deformable interfaces (i.e. oil droplets). The affect of electrolytes, surfactants, (zwitterionic, anionic or cationic) and polymers in aqueous solutions on the interaction between droplets will be the focus of this investigation. Emulsion systems are of great importance in areas such as: food technology, petroleum science, solvent extraction, chemical manufacturing and cosmetics. Understanding the interfacial forces is crucial in controlling the stability in these colloidal systems. For more information about the project, please contact Dr. Raymond Dagastine. To apply, please send a resume including a transcript of your academic results to date and contact details for at least two referees as soon as possible to: Professor Geoff Stevens and/or Dr Raymond Dagastine
Visualization of aerosol particles on the nano-scalePhD ProjectIn addition to greenhouse gases, another source of pollution that is just as important is the environmental impact from aerosol particles in the atmosphere. The processes that drive cloud formation are based on how aerosols adsorb water. In current approaches, the interaction of water with these aerosol particles is poorly understood and thus cloud formation remains the largest uncertainty in global climate models. Once an aerosol particle begins to take on water and grow in size, it becomes a complex mutli-component mixture of inorganic and organic chemicals well above the normal saturation limit of these components in solution. Traditional research in atmosphere chemistry has been unable to visualize these processes and measure the physical properties of individual aerosol particles or droplets. To better understand the uptake of water on aerosol nano-particles this project involves the generation, capture, imaging and property measurement of aerosol nano-particles using AFM in realistic atmospheric conditions. This work will build on the methods developed by Dr. Dagastine to examine droplet behavior using the AFM. These results have the potential to be incorporated into large scale climate models designed to help predict global climate change and also have important implications for inhalation drug delivery and chemical processing of nanoparticles. Dr. Raymond Dagastine
Complex FluidsPhD Project (1 of 6)Protein Deformation and Aggregation in ShearA wide range of biochemical processes involve the flow of proteins. Of particular interest is the processing of blood plasma undertaken by CSL Bioplasma. The processing of the blood plasma results in aggregation of the blood proteins. This project will use rheofluorescence methods developed in the group in order to understand the mechanisms by which the aggregation occurs. A number of other protein systems related to human diseases which involve protein aggregation will also be studied. Blood plasma is a valuable source of therapeutic proteins for the biotechnology industry. Commercial scale processes have been developed to separate the proteins from plasma. Current pumping and filtering operations cause instability and aggregation in the products. This research programme will use novel rheofluorescence and microfluidic methods to identify critical flow and solution conditions that induce deleterious protein aggregation. Key understand of the mechanisms by which the aggregation occurs will be developed. A number of protein systems related to human diseases which have been observed to show protein aggregation will also be studied. The knowledge developed will be used to assess the effects of different unit operations used by CSL Bioplasma in blood processing to improve process efficiency, reduce product loss and improve product quality. Applicants should have an honours (H2A or H1) degree in Chemical Engineering or Physical Chemistry. Application should include a Resume, the names and contact details of two referees and a copy of your academic record. SupervisorA/Prof Dave Dunstan
Complex FluidsPhD Project (2 of 6)Luminescent PolymersSince the invention of luminescent polymers, considerable effort has been made to produce viable flexible displays using the polymers in thin films. In doing this a number of workers have observed that the flow conditions under which the film is formed effects the luminescent properties of the film dramatically. It is well established that the conformation of the luminescent polymer is directly related to the light emitting properties. We have developed a rheofluorescence cell which is designed to measure the fluorescence properties of materials in flow. The project will measure the polymers in a range of shear conditions and copolymers matrices in order to develop optimal systems and processing conditions for the manufacture of displays from luminescent polymer films. Improved device efficiency and new material properties will result from the project through understanding the ability to control film formation using flow, physical chemistry and synthesis. Applicants should have an honours (H2A or H1) degree in Chemical Engineering or Physical Chemistry. Application should include a Resume, the names and contact details of two referees and a copy of your academic record. Supervisor A/Prof Dave Dunstan Complex FluidsPhD Project (3 of 6)Near Net Shape Ceramic ProductionThe CRC for Bioproducts has patented technology which enables the production of near net shape ceramic objects. The CRC technology involves a polymer-cross linker system which can be used at very low concentrations for optimal burn out when sintered. Recent developments have enabled plastic green bodies to be made which may be formed to shape before sintering. This project will explore the material options which are available from such technology and develop optimal formulations for the production of advanced ceramic devices. Applicants should have an honours (H2A or H1) degree in Chemical Engineering or Physical Chemistry. Application should include a Resume, the names and contact details of two referees and a copy of your academic record. SupervisorsA/Prof Dave Dunstan and A/Prof George FranksDept of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering University of Melbourne Victoria 3010 AUSTRALIA T: +61 3 8344 8261 F: +61 3 8344 4153
Complex FluidsPhD Project (4 of 6)NanoParticle Solar Hydrogen ProductionSemiconductor nanoparticles of either CdS or CdSe absorb visible light to create an electron-hole pair. The reactive exciton pair have enough energy to drive the reduction and oxidation of water into oxygen and hydrogen. The nanoparticles (5-10nm in diameter) in solution are largely non-scattering and as such the depth of the suspension controls the absorbance of the sunlight. Therefore, large tanks of the nano-particles in solution, preferably in sea water, will produce H2 using sunlight as an energy source. Several problems of a technical nature are associated with this method of H2 production. The reactive e-/h+ pair cause significant photodegradation of the metal sulphide and metal selenide particles. This leads to a reduction in the H2 production with time and a loss of the nanoparticles. The catalytic nature of the semiconductor surface is not optimal for the production of hydrogen. The solution to both these problems has been to coat the particle surface with an inert noble metal which has a low overpotential for the production of H2 and stops the photocorrosion of the nano-particles. The research project would undertake experiments directed at modifying the surface of the nanoparticles using chemistry in order to: 1. Optimise the particle coating procedure to minimise corrosion and optimise the photoconversion to H2. 2. Use several aqueous based polymeric systems to stabilise the particles for long term colloidal stability in high salt solutions. Supervisor
Complex FluidsPhD Project (5 of 6)Hierarchical Structure-Function Model for Biopolymer Gel SystemsBiopolymers such as proteins and polysaccharides are used in a range of applications in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications and there is an increased interest from these industries to design structures with desirable viscoelastic and fracture properties. The aim of the project is to investigate the different levels of structural hierarchy in model biopolymer networks in order to establish on which scale the viscoelastic properties of the soft solids are defined. The molecular, aggregate, and micro through to macroscopic level assembly of these materials leads to their complex physical and rheological properties. The differing levels of structure will be examined using the latest development in microscopy preparation techniques for electron microscopy, confocal microscopy and optical microscopy in order to measure the structuring characteristics at all length scales. The measured images will be used to build mathematical models to describe the networks. The models will be developed to describe the complex rheological behaviour of these systems. In conjunction methods will be developed to measure the rheology of the different structural elements in the networks. The data from the rheology measurements will be compared with the model predictions. The resulting understanding of these systems will be used to predict new and novel structures with unique properties. The molecular structure and organization in the gels is being assessed combined with the rheological behaviour. Supervisors
Complex FluidsPhD Project (6 of 6)Protein Misfolding DiseasesA number of human diseases are associated with protein misfolding. Alzheimer's disease, type 2 diabetes and heart disease are three significant examples. Ageing of populations will increase the impact of these diseases on the community. The incidence of Alzheimer's disease increases from 5% to 50% from age 60 to 85. Furthermore, protein therapeutics is the fastest growth area in biotechnology. Therapeutic proteins are currently produced for vaccines and immune disorders. Protein therapies and vaccines can be rendered useless or harmful by protein misfolding. Understanding the mechanism of amyloid formation will define cures for the associated diseases and optimise protein therapies. These diseases are associated with natural proteins that misfold into ordered structures called amyloid fibrils. We propose to contribute to the understanding of protein misfolding diseases by directly measuring the folding energies of clinically-important proteins using single molecule methods. New techniques in near-field microscopy will be developed to determine molecular conformation during the folding process and thus the mechanism of amyloid formation. This will reveal cures for these debilitating diseases and improve therapeutic protein products. Supervisors Tissue Engineering GroupPhD ProjectApplications are invited for students to work in a highly multidisciplinary research team developing methods to enhance tissue engineering techniques. Tissue engineering aims to replace tissue which is missing or damaged through disease, trauma or genetic abnormalities, ideally using the patient's own cells to grow the new tissue. In collaboration with researchers in the Departments of Surgery, Physiology and Mathematics, as well as several medical research institutes, we are targeting soft tissues such as fat, muscle and pancreas through a range of novel tissue engineering strategies. Dr Andrea
O’Connor
NanobiotechnologyPhD ProjectNanoporous materials for bioseparationsApplications are invited from students interested in working in a multidisciplinary research team developing advanced materials to solve difficult separation and purification challenges in the biotechnology industries. Food, wine and pharmaceutical processing demand gentle, efficient and highly selective separations and the development of new protein-based therapies and neutraceuticals sets new challenges in materials design for these separations. This research aims to develop new classes of tailored high performance adsorbents for bioprocess engineering based on templated nanoporous silica materials. It will lead to significant advances in advanced materials and adsorbent technology, downstream processing for the biotechnology industries, and understanding of highly specific affinity interactions used for difficult bioseparations. The new adsorbents will lead to reductions in the costs, energy usage and waste generation of Australian industries. Dr Andrea O'Connor More info: here - Scholarships available for 2010
Polymer Science/Engineering - CLOSEDTwo ARC Linkage PhD ProjectsApplications are invited from suitable qualified and highly motivated graduates for two ARC Linkage Scholarships leading to a Ph.D degree in Polymers Science and Materials Engineering in Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at The University of Melbourne. The project will be involved in an ARC Linkage program in investigation and application of novel nano-particles as additives for the automotive paint industry. The project represents an excellent opportunity to develop jointly with our industrial partner, DuPont Australia, a new generation of automotive coating system (paints) which are both environmentally friendly and have greatly improved properties. The science involved is at the cutting edge of world leading technology and the products can be made at a commercially acceptable price in local manufacture facilities. The scholarship is for three to three and half years. Benefits and condition will be as offered under APA (industry) program (currently including a tax-free stipend of $23,033 p.a.). The successful candidate should have an Honours or four-year degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or an associated discipline. Candidates should preferably be Australian citizen or have Permanent Resident status in Australia. Application should include a Resume, the names and contact details of two referees and a copy of your academic record. For details of this project and further information, please contact or send your application to: A/Prof Greg
Qiao
Geopolymer & Mineral Processing GroupPhD ProjectNanostructural Characterisation of Advanced Geopolymeric MaterialsSupervisors: Professor J.S.J van Deventer & Dr J. Provis The search for an advanced construction material that will both match the durability of ancient concrete and lead to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions by the cement industry has stimulated interest in geopolymer technology in recent times (www.geopolymer.org). Geopolymers are formed via a rapid process of partial dissolution of the solid aluminosilicate within an activator solution. The solvated silicate, aluminate and aluminosilicate species then undergo 'reorientation', prior to being deposited via a nucleation process similar to that of zeolite synthesis. The role of nanostructure in determining the physical properties of geopolymers is an area of much speculation, and which holds the key to the widespread utilisation of these materials as high-performance and low-cost ceramic matrices. The basis of the proposed project is the fundamental nanostructural exploration of the relationships between zeolites, traditional cements and geopolymers, with a view towards optimisation of a geopolymer synthesis process. The proposed work forms part of an extensive research effort with the Australian Research Council, and various Industrial Partners. The specific nature of a particular Ph.D. project could be designed by taking the background and aptitude of the candidate into account. For example, it is possible to design a project with a more engineering focus, or with more emphasis on inorganic chemistry and mechanisms. For more information please contact: Dr John Provis More info: here [pdf]
Ion exchange and temperaturePhD ProjectIon exchange as a separating, purification and water treatment technique has grown over the last century to have many uses. It has been used in the cleaning of river water, the recycling of agricultural drainage water and the pre-treatment of drinking water. It has found application over a broad range of chemical processing industries, including metallurgy, nuclear, chemical, food, pharmaceutical and environmental waste management. As examples it is used in the electric power generation industry to ensure the purity of boiler feed water, in the remediation of contaminated sites to significantly reduce the contamination of ground water and in the food industry in the stabilisation of liquids such as pear juice. Its potential applications are many and include the selective separation of high-value metals in the minerals processing industry as well as in the production of high-value dairy products by the separation of specific proteins from milk. Ion exchange is also currently being used in Antarctica for the remediation of contaminated soil. The aim of this project is to study the effect of temperature on multi-component ion exchange equilibria with a view to developing a model which will allow this effect to be predicted. Such a model will permit the design of more efficient ion exchange processes by allowing designers to optimise the operating temperature of the process. The model will also allow workers to use experimental data collected at one temperature to predict performance at another temperature. Applicants should have an honours (H2A or H1) degree in Chemical Engineering or Physical Chemistry. Application should include a Resume, the names and contact details of two referees and a copy of your academic record. For more information please contact: A/Prof David Shallcross |
|
|
top of page
|
Contact the University : Disclaimer & Copyright : Privacy : Accessibility |
|
Date Created: 29 April 2004 |
The University of Melbourne ABN: 84 002 705 224 |
![The University of Melbourne [logo]](/template-assets-custom/images/custom_logo_crest_comb.gif){kind=logo}
