University of Bath URSA Project: Understanding the phenomenology of hydrogen auto-ignition mechanisms for internal combustion engines

This project is one of a number that are in competition for funding from the University of Bath URSA competition, for entry in September 2025.

Early application is encouraged, as excellent candidates may receive an early offer of a funded place before the end of the year. To be eligible for early consideration, you must apply before 24 November 2024.

Project Background: 

Propulsion systems based on the chemical energy conversion of green hydrogen have the potential to decarbonise the energy and transportation sectors. Hydrogen, when used in internal combustion engines (ICEs), offers the promise of near-zero emissions. However, due to hydrogen’s unique properties, autoignition phenomena—such as knock, pre-ignition, and backfiring—pose significant challenges to the performance, efficiency, and safety of hydrogen-fuelled ICEs. This research investigates the phenomenology of the physical and chemical mechanisms driving hydrogen auto-ignition in ICEs.

The study combines experimental investigations on research ICEs fuelled by hydrogen with a combination of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and chemical kinetics simulations to deepen the understanding of observed phenomena. The scope allows flexibility in focusing either on the experimental or simulation aspects, though the primary goal is to explore one or more hydrogen auto-ignition phenomena within ICEs. Through this dual approach, the work aims to enhance the fundamental understanding of the underlying mechanisms.

The findings from this research will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the conditions that either promote or mitigate hydrogen auto-ignition. These insights will inform the design of safer and more efficient hydrogen-fuelled ICEs, advancing hydrogen combustion systems within the broader context of clean energy technologies, while also enhancing understanding of hydrogen safety beyond ICE applications.

Candidate requirements:

Applicants must have, or be about to obtain, a UK Honours degree 1^st or 2.1, or international equivalent.

Non-UK applicants, who are not currently studying in the UK, must meet the programme’s English language requirement before the application deadline – no exceptions will be considered.

Enquiries:

Informal enquiries are encouraged! Direct these to Dr Stefania Esposito – se662@bath.ac.uk

Application Instructions

Please follow the below instructions carefully.

You must make a formal application via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Please note that you can apply for a maximum of two PhD projects on this programme.

In the ‘Funding Your Studies’ section, you must select ‘University of Bath URSA’ from one of the drop-down menus.

In the ‘Your PhD project’ section, you must quote the project title in the PhD project title field, and you must quote the lead supervisor’s name in the field ‘Name of intended supervisor at University of Bath.’

If you are applying for two projects, you must quote the project title for your second choice project in the field ‘Project 2 Title’ and the lead supervisor’s name in ‘Name of intended supervisor for 2^nd choice project at University of Bath.

You must ensure that you follow the above steps correctly. Failure to complete these steps will cause errors in the automated processing of your application and may mean that you are not considered for a particular project.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We value a diverse research environment and strive to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated and respected. We encourage applications from under-represented groups.

If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement.

The Disability Service ensures that individuals with disabilities are provided the support that they need. If you state if your application that you have a disability, the Disability Service will contact you as part of this process to discuss your needs.

Keywords

Hydrogen; Auto-ignition; Knock; Internal combustion engines.