Carbon Nanotube-based Ultra-compact Particle Accelerators
Supervisors: Carsten P Welsch (UoL), Bifeng Lei (UoL)
Institution: University of Liverpool
Particle accelerators are at the heart of groundbreaking research in physics, enabling discoveries that shape our understanding of fundamental forces and particles. Traditional accelerators, however, face limits in terms of size, energy, and cost. This PhD project aims to tackle these limitations by developing next-generation compact particle accelerators using carbon nanotubes (CNTs), a promising technology that could revolutionize particle acceleration.
Carbon nanotubes, tubular structures composed of graphene, have remarkable electronic and mechanical properties that make them ideal for ultra-high gradient acceleration. When highintensity laser pulses or dense particle beams pass through CNTs, they can excite surface plasmons, leading to unprecedented acceleration gradients within a compact design. This project will involve advanced simulation studies to model these interactions, investigate optimal conditions for CNTbased acceleration, and lay out a roadmap for future high-energy applications.
The PhD candidate will join the internationally recognized QUASAR Group and benefit from collaborations with leading institutions in the UK, Spain, and Brazil. Working within an interdisciplinary team, the candidate will:
• Model the dynamics of metallic CNTs and their ability to support high acceleration gradients,
• Explore laser and particle beam parameters for CNT excitation,
• Develop a scalable prototype in collaboration with partner institutions.
This project is ideal for candidates with a strong background in physics or engineering and an interest in computational modelling and high-energy particle physics. The work aligns with strategic priorities at the Cockcroft Institute and QUASAR Group, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to pioneering research that could reshape the future of particle accelerators.
Throughout the project you will have access to the Cockcroft Institute’s comprehensive postgraduate training in accelerator science, as well as to targeted training in data science provided by the University of Liverpool with the Centre for Doctoral Training LIV.INNO. A 6-months industry placement will be part of your project and help broaden your research and career skills.
This project is funded for 4 years by the LIV.INNO Centre for Doctoral Training and the Cockcroft Institute of Accelerator Science and Technology.
https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/how-to-apply/
The delivery of this project is subject to funding approval.