Next Generation Electroactive Membranes (EMs) for Sustainable Water Purification

Description

NTHU-UoL Dual PhD Programme between National Tsing Hua University in Taiwan and the University of Liverpool in the UK is a well-established programme, where students spending 2 years at both institutions. Working with world leading academics and research capabilities the PhD candidates will spend two years in each institution. Upon successful defence of their research work, the candidates will obtain dual PhD degrees.

The aim of this project is to develop novel electroactive membranes for micropollutant removal from water to help work towards sustainable water recovery. Micropollutants, including harmaceuticals, personal care products, endocrine disruptors, biocides, and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are found in trace levels in aquatic environments and have point or non-point anthropogenic sources. They are emerging pollutants presenting a significant threat to the environment [1, 2]. Long-term exposure to micropollutants has been shown to have adverse effects on human health [3]. The concentrations of micropollutants in aquatic environments range from nanogram per litre to microgram per litre [4]. Conventional water and wastewater treatment plants are less effective in eliminating micropollutants [5].

Although membrane technologies have superior properties, such as high effluent quality, small footprint, and ease of operation, they tend to foul and lose permeability. Low-pressure membrane technologies have been widely used in water and wastewater treatment [6]. However, they have poor micropollutant rejection because of the limitations of membrane pore size [7]. Additionally, the physical and chemical cleaning processes used for fouling control in membrane processes may cause secondary pollution. Furthermore, those cleaning processes may cause irreversible damage to the membrane materials, hence shortening the membrane’s lifespan [8].

Electroactive membranes (EMs) are a promising solution to the drawbacks of conventional membrane processes. In membrane processes, charge and size exclusion, as well as steric hindrance, are the main mechanisms of separation. EMs expand the membrane properties by utilising various electro-based phenomena, such as electrochemical oxidation and reduction, electrostatic adsorption and rejection, electrophoresis, and electroporation [9]. As a result, EMs can improve the rejection of charged species and break down contaminants during filtrationprocesses. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and titanium suboxide (Ti4O7) are commonly used materials in the fabrication of EMs, although they have drawbacks such as corrosion, passivation, membrane fouling, and high costs. In order to overcome these restrictions, the development of EM materials with enhanced properties, such as porosity, conductivity, reactivity and long-term operational stability is necessary [10].

The aim of this project is to develop novel EMs for micropollutant removal from water for sustainable water recovery. The specific project objectives underpinning this aim are to:

① synthesise innovative EMs for micropollutant removal,

② characterise the morphology, permeability, selectivity, and fouling properties of EMs,

③ optimise fabrication methods for producing EMs with uniform morphology and enhanced structural integrity,

④ investigate the long-term stability and durability of EMs under environmental operating conditions including fouling, scaling, and chemical degradation,

The student engaged in this project will be a part of two teams; one specialised in membrane preparation, modification and application, and the other in material synthesis and characterisation. The project comprises in-depth training, including an extensive understanding of material synthesis and characterisation, membrane technologies, water treatment processes, and related disciplines. The student will not only gain a broad spectrum of skills in fundamental science and its practical application, but also develop research, innovation, problem-solving, collaboration, and interdisciplinary skills. With its multidisciplinary nature, the goal of this project is to provide the candidate with a career plan covering various sectors.

Developing innovative membranes for micropollutant removal and water recovery is in line with the UN SGD 17.7 “knowledge sharing and cooperation for access to science, technology and innovation” with its interdisciplinary and international cooperation nature, and 17.6 “promote sustainable technologies to developing countries” with its target of developing environmentally sound technology with lower price. The project is also aligned with UN SGD 6.3 “improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimising release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally”, and 6.6. “protect and restore water-related ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, aquifers and lakes” with its micropollutant treatment target.

We want all of our staff and Students to feel that Liverpool is an inclusive and welcoming environment that actively celebrates and encourages diversity. We are committed to working with students to make all reasonable project adaptations including supporting those with caring responsibilities, disabilities or other personal circumstances. For example, If you have a disability you may be entitled to a Disabled Students Allowance on top of your studentship to help cover the costs of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result.

We believe everyone deserves an excellent education and encourage students from all backgrounds and personal circumstances to apply. Applicant Eligibility Candidates will have, or be due to obtain, a Master’s Degree or equivalent from a reputable University in an appropriate field of Engineering. Exceptional candidates with a First Class Bachelor’s Degree in an appropriate field will also be considered. Application Process Candidates wishing to apply should complete the University of Liverpool application form [How to apply for a PhD - University of Liverpool] applying for a PhD in Civil Engineering and uploading: Degree Certificates & Transcripts, an up-to-date CV, a covering letter/personal statement and two academic references.