Nanoparticles for Sustainable Fluids

Lead Research Organisation: University of York
Department Name: Chemistry

Abstract

Formulations and blended fluids play a critical role in effective functioning of modern-day life through their use in key industrial sectors such as health and medical care, automotive, construction, food protection and production, and home and personal care. Judicious changes in a formulation or blended product can enhance both its efficacy and sustainability.

This PhD explores the synthesis, characterisation and application of base metal nanoparticles in formulations and blended products in order to enhance key performance and sustainability criteria dependent on their use . Sustainability criteria will be determined through life cycle and techno-economic assessments.
Key aims of this research include:
1. To undertake an extensive literature survey in order to gain a better understanding of nanoparticles, how different properties such as metal type, particle size and morphology impact its final properties, and why many nanoparticles fail in formulations.
2. To synthesise a range of nanoparticles amenable for use in formulations and blended products based on key performance criteria (application dependent).
3. To use a wide range of experimental techniques to characterise the size, shape and stability of the nanoparticles pre- and post-formulation.
4. To undertake a sustainability (LCA and techno-economic) assessment of the nanoparticles within the context of a formulation and blended product."

Publications

10 25 50

Studentship Projects

Project Reference Relationship Related To Start End Student Name
EP/V519959/1 01/10/2020 31/03/2026
2845988 Studentship EP/V519959/1 01/04/2023 31/03/2027 Benjamin France