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PhD Studentship: Decarbonising construction materials
Engineering
Location: |
UK Other |
Closing Date: |
Monday 24 April 2023 |
Reference: |
ENG1627 |
Project description
The construction sector has a major impact on the environment, including a significant amount of waste being generated, along with high water consumption and particulate matter in cities. When it comes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions the construction value chain is accounting for up to 25% of global GHG emissions, mainly driven by two components: raw material processing and buildings operation. Climate change and depletion of non-renewable resources have driven decarbonisation strategy plans to promote the transition towards a circular economy. Investment in net-zero construction materials is necessary to meet the COP26 climate goals. Biomass-based construction materials have been identified as low-carbon materials that reduce energy consumption and over-exploitation of natural geomaterials. Biomass and recyclable materials have the potential to be used to produce materials for civil and geotechnical applications. Research has focused on the feasibility of eco-efficient materials in engineering practice mainly to produce building materials. However, there is limited evidence of successful practical applications in the field of construction materials for other applications.
This project aims to:
- Evaluate the properties of biomass-based and recyclable materials
- Study of the mechanical characteristics and energy efficiency of the newly developed construction materials
- Assess the efficiency of the developed materials in targeted civil and geotechnical engineering applications
Application details
The position is available to start in October 2023.
Duration: 3 years
Closing date: open until filled
Eligibility
Eligible for home and international students.
Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, a 1st class or 2.1 honours degree in Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science or a related subject. A relevant MSc in these areas would be advantageous.
If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University’s minimum English Language requirements.
How to apply
Informal contact can be sent to Dr Konstantina Kourmentza (Konstantina.Kourmentza@nottingham.ac.uk), Dr Athina Grizi (A.Grizi@nottingham.ac.uk) or Dr Georgia Thermou (Georgia.Thermou@nottingham.ac.uk) before submitting an online application. Please send a cover letter and a copy of your CV with your up to date relevant experience.
Online application can be made via http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/how-to-apply/how-to-apply.aspx.
When applying for this studentship, please include the reference number (beginning ENG) within the personal statement section of the application. This will help in ensuring your application is sent directly to the academic advertising the studentship.
Contact details
Dr Konstantina Kourmentza (Konstantina.Kourmentza@nottingham.ac.uk)
Dr Athina Grizi (A.Grizi@nottingham.ac.uk)
Dr Georgia Thermou (Georgia.Thermou@nottingham.ac.uk)