Advanced Manufacturing of a Large Scale Hydrogen Fuel Cell

The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Net Zero Maritime Energy solutions (N0MES) has a 4-year funded PhD place available for an exceptional researcher. With the support of the University of Liverpool (UoL), Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) and 33 maritime energy sector partners, N0MES PGRs will pursue new, engineering-centred, interdisciplinary research to address four vital net zero challenges currently facing the North West, the UK and beyond:

a) Energy generation using maritime-based renewable energy (e.g. offshore wind, tidal, wave, floating solar, hydrogen, CCS);

b) Distributing energy from offshore to onshore, including port- and hinterland-side impacts and opportunities;

c) Addressing the short- and long-term environmental impacts of offshore and maritime

environment renewable energy generation, distribution and storage; and

d) Decommissioning and lifetime extension of existing energy and facilities.

This PhD project is a collaboration between the University of Liverpool and Atomik AM

Atomik AM is passionate about re-shaping the world of advanced manufacturing, believing that we cannot change the world without changing the way we think.  As an advocate of responsible manufacturing, Atomik AM approaches work with a uniquely non-conformist mindset.  It sees a world where conventional manufacturing doesn’t always think about materials before designing products – accumulating waste throughout the process and producing sub-standard parts. Putting materials first allows sustainable choices. It’s a conscious commitment to reducing cost, waste and adverse social impact.

This research project will use Atomik’s solution focussed principles to design, build and test an additive manufacturing machine capable of printing large hydrogen fuel cell parts for marine applications. Materials analysis will be required to understand the implications of scaling up AM machines, experimental tests will be undertaken to inform design choices.

The fuel cell components for this project will be specified by Alkaline Fuel Cell company Cygnus Atratus that believe’s it is the only company capable of delivering large scale electrodes greater than a m². The project intends to provide a machine that can manufacture those parts with minimum waste, cost and environmental impact. The parts will then be assembled and tested by Cygnus Atratus, to create the worlds largest fuel cell, with applications across a range of sectors.  This would effectively create a step change in medium scale energy generation, including maritime, rail, agriculture local and remote communities 

The project requires an appreciation for materials, understanding of mechatronics and control systems, mechanical engineering and excellent CAD skills and will involve: (i) creating a design specification for the machine, (ii) Designing lab test for the materials to ensure that prints will meet the required spec. (iii) understanding the issue with scaling up AM for that material (Iv) designing a machine, (v) testing key components of that design of the machine, (vi) building the full machine and try and print the parts then, (vii) testing the material properties.

We want all of our staff and Students to feel that Liverpool is an inclusive and welcoming environment that actively celebrates and encourages diversity. We are committed to working with students to make all reasonable project adaptations including supporting those with caring responsibilities, disabilities or other personal circumstances. For example, If you have a disability you may be entitled to a Disabled Students Allowance on top of your studentship to help cover the costs of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result.

We believe everyone deserves an excellent education and encourage students from all backgrounds and personal circumstances to apply.

Applicant Eligibility 

Candidates will have, or be due to obtain, a Master’s Degree or equivalent from a reputable University in an appropriate field of Engineering. Exceptional candidates with a First Class Bachelor’s Degree in an appropriate field will also be considered. 

Application Process 

Candidates wishing to apply should complete the University of Liverpool application form [How to apply for a PhD – University of Liverpool] applying for a PhD in Environmental Sciences and uploading: Degree Certificates & Transcripts, an up-to-date CV, two academic references and a supporting statement [maximum 300 words] detailing; what inspires you within this project, how your skill set matches the project, up to 3 examples showing your commitment to science, piece of science that excites you & anything else to support your application.