Advancing sensing technology for CCUS applications

This advert will close once a suitable candidate has been found.

This PhD is one of a number of projects hosted by the Centre for Doctoral Training in Green Industrial Futures (CDT-GIF). We are offering pioneering research projects that will enable PhD researchers to explore key technologies and solutions that will support UK industry to reach net zero. https://greenindustrialfutures.site.hw.ac.uk/the-programme/training-programme/

Project: Accurate knowledge of CO2 streams density is vital across the CCUS chain, impacting engineering design, pipeline safety, reservoir management, and financial settlements. Unlike natural gas, which has a constant composition, CO2 streams are project specific and contain over 20 impurities across gas, liquid, and supercritical phases, complicating the development of an accurate and generalisable density Equation of State model (EoS). This is especially challenging near the critical point and the Widom line, where there are large gradients in fluid properties.

Current research suggests directly measuring the density of CO2-rich mixtures due to the limitations of existing EoS models. This project aims to develop two advanced methodologies for accurate and cost-effective CO2 density measurement. One approach combines stream speed of sound, pressure, temperature, and permittivity measurements, while the second integrates pressure, temperature, and speed of sound measurements with isentropic exponent predications from advanced EoS models. Both approaches are designed to be accurate, cost-effective, and easily deployable, as they utilize inputs — such as speed of sound, temperature, and pressure—already available from the existing commercial ultrasonic flow meters typically deployed across the transportation chain.

The project builds on previous PhD collaboration between Heriot-Watt University (HWU) and TÜV-SÜD, leveraging existing bench apparatus at HWU and industrial devices and test facilities from TÜV-SÜD. If successful, this methodology could be implemented in industrial settings with minimal hardware modifications, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of CCUS technology deployment. Moreover, it has the potential to be applied to any other fluid including biogas, hydrogen, and ammonia. 

Lead supervisor/s: Prof Mercedes Maroto-Valer

Project partner: TUV-SUD

CDT in Green Industrial Futures: The CDT is funded by the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and is a partnership between Heriot Watt University, Imperial College London, and the Universities of Sheffield and Bath. The CDT is further supported by contributions from industrial partners. Bringing these leading universities together allows CDT-GIF students access to a wide range of academic expertise, resources and facilities.

The CDT-GIF has an exciting and challenging programme specifically designed for top performing junior researchers. Alongside the four-year research project, students will receive expert training and opportunities to contextualise their research within the wider net zero landscape, including:

• Residential taught courses at each of the partner universities in Years 1 and 2 that provide training in the systematic considerations for industry including: Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), technoeconomics, business models, policy & regulation, public engagement, plant operation.
• An international opportunity in Year 2 or 3 of the programme, including opportunities to visit a world-leading facility, conference or forum and explore the global context of industrial decarbonisation.
• A work placement with one of our industrial partners.
• A bespoke ‘net-zero leadership programme’, including regular exchanges with cohort members from the other universities, student-led activities, industry challenge sandpit, industrial site visits, and professional development opportunities.

Candidate requirements: As a minimum we require candidates to have a First-class or 2:1 Meng, MSc, or MA with merit (over 60%) in a relevant area i.e. Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering. Applicants who have a First-class BSc/BEng (Hons) and can demonstrate significant relevant industry/research experience may also be considered.

Candidates should be aware of and meet any additional entry requirements for the university hosting the PhD studentship.

Non-native English speakers must ensure they meet the English language requirements.

Enquiries and applications. Informal enquiries regarding the research project can be directed to the supervisor. Alternatively, if you have a question regarding the wider CDT-GIF programme, please contact cdtgreenindustrialfutures@hw.ac.uk .

Formal applications can be made here: https://greenindustrialfutures.site.hw.ac.uk/the-programme/how-to-apply/ . Applications are open until filled so we would encourage early application.

The initial application involves an application form (including a short personal statement and CV). You may select up to two CDT-GIF projects. Applicants will then be selected to interview. If successful at interview, candidates will be asked to complete the application process for the home university. 

Funding notes. The programme is four years and starts in Oct 2025. Funding includes full UK fees, stipend (2024/25 stipend is £19,237 excluding London weighting), plus budget for travel and consumables. The positions are in the first instance for UK students. There are limited spaces for overseas students.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. We warmly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Our programme values diversity as a cornerstone of innovation and collaboration, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to thrive. The CDT-GIF are committed to ensuring flexibility throughout our programme to support student’s needs and personal circumstances, for example those with medical conditions, caring responsibilities and other considerations. For example, we are open to exploring part-time options if appropriate for the nature of the research.