PhD in Chemistry: Electrolysis Technologies for H2 production Catalysed by Plastrons and Foams.

About the project

About the Project Green hydrogen is hydrogen produced by water electrolysis using renewable electricity. Its production reduces dramatically CO 2 emissions compared to grey hydrogen, which is derived from fossil fuels without carbon capture. There is potential for green hydrogen to play a significant role in decarbonising energy systems where there are challenges and limitations to replacing fossil fuels with direct use of electricity such as the heavy industry (e.g., steel, cement, glass), ammonia production, transport (e.g., shipping, aviation, heavy goods vehicles), and long-term energy grid storage. Commercial electrolysers to produce green hydrogen suffer from gas nanobubbles strongly adsorbed on electrodes that hamper mass transfer and increase the overpotential, resulting in low energy conversion efficiency (<70%) and poor durability (<2500 h for stainless steel electrodes). This research programme will develop a technological solution to detach nanobubbles from electrodes by implementing surface-active, water-dispersible particles, and increase dramatically their efficiency. The surface-active particles developed in this programme will rely on oleophobic organosilicas/carbons able to adsorb at the gas-liquid interface. We will study their effect on the performance of alkaline electrolyser prototypes from Hydrostar by generation of particle-stabilised gas plastrons and foams, using waters including salts, dissolved organic pollutants and suspended microplastics. With these results, we will elaborate an exploitation plan for upscaling and commercialisation of the new electrolysers. This PhD project will be carried out in partnership with the company Hydrostar Home | Hydrostar Europe and will include secondments and specific training in the company. Academic criteria Candidates should hold or expect to gain a first class degree or a good 2.1 and/or an appropriate Master’s level qualification (or their equivalent). English Language Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent) English language requirements for postgraduate students - Study - Cardiff University Supervisors Professor Marc Pera Titus - People - Cardiff University Start date: 1 October 2026, 1 January 2027 To apply please complete an online application, stating your supervisor’s name(s) and project title Chemistry - Study - Cardiff University Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive environment for all. We welcome applications from all members of the global community irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation.

Research areas