Understanding Green Steel Production

A PhD studentship is available to study electrolytic reduction of iron to tackle the unique challenges associated with the decarbonisation of the steel industry. The aim of this project is to develop methods for the low carbon reduction of iron in the development of green steel, using a variety of characterisation techniques including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), cryogenic Focussed Ion Beam (FIB) and Atom Probe Tomography (APT), as well as development of electrolysers for the low temperature electrolysis of iron.

The steel industry currently accounts for around 8% of global CO2 emissions. To meet 2050 targets, we must significantly reduce emissions in this industry. A major source of emissions comes from the reduction of iron ore to pure iron, with the carbon reducing agent forming carbon dioxide during the reduction process. By using an alternative reducing agent, this can radically reduce toxic emissions.

This project aims to investigate low temperature electrolytic reduction to tackle this issue. This technology is still in the early stages of development and uses a nickel electrode in a sodium hydroxide electrolyte solution to reduce iron ore and produce oxygen. However, improvement can be made in the electrode materials, and in how they interact with the electrolyte. The project will focus on developing improved electrode materials that are resistant to corrosion, particularly by hydrogen ingress, and understanding the fundamental interactions between the electrolyte, electrode, and reduced iron. This will involve the use of cryogenic characterisation methods to understand the interactions of light elements in this process, to better protect electrodes against degradation and therefore improve efficiency.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated person who meets the academic requirements for enrolment for the PhD degree at Imperial College London. You need to have a background in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, Materials, Chemistry, Physics or a related field, and an enquiring and rigorous approach to research together with a strong intellect and disciplined work habits. Training will be given in the relevant investigative techniques. You will become a skilled communicator, comfortable in an international situation. Good team-working, observational and communication skills are essential. 

Funding is only available to cover UK student fees, plus a stipend.

To find out more about research at Imperial College London in this area, go to: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/engineering-alloys/research/current-projects/