Waste and biomass valorisation PhD projects

The conversion of biomass to fuels and value-added chemicals is key to support net-zero aspirations both globally and within the UK. Ideally biomass sources should be non-food biomass such as lignocellulosic biomass, and/or supply chain surplus or wastes. However, the biorefinery concept is challenged with valorisation of complex waste streams encompassing all biomass components; the requirement for new, biobased supply chains; discovery of new technologies and processes that are also sustainable with respect to social, economic and environmental factors; heterogeneity of biomass feedstocks; integration of biorefinery systems within established systems; and complex modelling requirements. Within the Chemical and Process Engineering Department at Surrey we have projects available to tackle these challenges.

1. The lignin component of lignocelluose needs to be used (alongside the sugars) within the biorefinery to improve economic potential of biorefinery processes. This project will research novel lignin conversion techniques using ultrasound and heterogeneous catalysis.
2. Surplus and waste from the human food supply chain have potential to be used for hair cosmetics with fewer legislative challenges. This project will research extracts from food waste/surplus for hair dyes.
3. The impact of heterogeneity of waste and biomass feedstocks on technologies and supply chains will be researched.

Home student (UK, EU pre-settled or settled status, indefinite leave to remain) with a 2:1 or better.

English language requirements

6.5 or above (or equivalent) with 6.0 in each individual category (if not graduated from UK institution).