Accelerator design for leather tanning and related applications

About the project

About the Project This project focuses on the use of electron beams to tan leather in a novel process described by industry as potentially the biggest disruption to the process in 150 years. The tanning industry produces large quantities of wastewater which can be potentially harmful to the local environment if not properly treated. However, wastewater treatment is both energy intensive and introduces substantial cost to tanneries. In a patented process developed by Lancaster University and the University of Huddersfield, we have successfully demonstrated a working process in collaboration with industrial partners. In conventional tanning, chemicals and water are added to prepared hides to create crosslinking between protein chains, in a process analogous to the crosslinking of polymers. This process produces a product which is chemically and biologically more stable than the original hide, and also more durable; enabling its use as a material for a range of purposes. However, this process also produces large quantities of wastewater as the solution cannot be reused afterwards due to changes in the chemistry during the process. In our proprietary process, the hides are soaked in the same solution as before, and the hides are then irradiated to initiate the tanning reaction. The solution has not be chemically altered and can then be recycled, essentially eliminating wastewater production from the process. In this project, the student will work closely with Rapiscan to design an electron accelerator specifically designed for this novel application, based on the experimental data previously obtained within this project. The student will be supported by Dr Rob Apsimon from the Cockcroft Institute, Prof Becky Seviour from the University of Huddersfield and as well as Rapiscan and other industrial partners. For further information, please contact r.apsimon@lancaster.ac.uk in the first instance. The student will become a member of the Cockcroft Institute and will participate in the Cockcroft Institute Education and Training Programme, whereby they will participate in a lecture programme over the first 2 years of study in addition to their work on their project. The candidate should have at least a 2:1 or equivalent in a science based subject such as physics, chemistry or engineering. Funding and eligibility: Upon acceptance of a student, this project will be funded by the Science and Technology Facilities Council for 3.5 years. This consists of a tax free stipend at UKRI rates, university fees at the home (UK) rate, plus support for travel to conferences and workshops. A full package of training and support will be provided by the Cockcroft Institute, and the student will take part in a vibrant accelerator research and education community of over 150 people. An IELTS score of at least 6.5 is required (or equivalent). Contact for further information: Dr. Rob Apsimon r.apsimon@lancaster.ac.uk How to apply: Apply at the Cockcroft Institute PhD webpage . For full consideration for funded awards, please apply by Jan 31st 2026. Anticipated Start Date: October 2026 for 3.5 Years

Research areas