PhD in EPSRC supported EngD Thermodynamics of Aerosols Understanding VLE & Phase Transitions for Aerosolised Systems

Consumer products in the form of aerosols comprise product bases, with a range of physical and chemical properties blended with propellant(s) in a range of base: propellant ratios. Aerosol packaging or hardware consists of specific pressure rated cans fitted with valves made up of several sections (stem, spray channel, orifice insert and actuator) with a range of designs and flow channel / orifice sizes. The spray performance of an aerosol is dependent on several factors including multiphase fluid behaviour and thermal effects arising from liquid-gas transitions.

Working with industrial partner Unilever, this project aims to investigate the role of liquid-gas transitions governing spray formation using experimental methods & computational modelling. The project has the objectives:

• Develop & operate lab set-up to measure thermodynamic properties for a range of formulations & propellants.
• Develop thermodynamic models using measured properties.
• Measure spray pattern properties of aerosol deodorants.
• Develop empirical models to predict spray pattern properties from thermodynamic data.

The student, with a skillset in Chemical Engineering/ Analytical Chemistry will develop a range of skills in measurement technique development, experimental methods, modelling & data analysis, as well as transferrable skills such as project management and communication. The outcome from this project will be used in the development of future spray products. The project will be based at the University of Birmingham and include short periods of working at Unilever Research & Development Labs in Port Sunlight – Wirral.

Funding notes:

To be eligible for EPSRC funding candidates must have at least a 2(1) in an Engineering or Scientific discipline or a 2(2) plus MSc.

For details on the Engineering Doctorate scheme visit the homepage: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/centres-institutes/formulation-engineering/cdt-in-formulation-engineering/apply-to-centre-for-doctoral-training

Advert information