Uncovering Non-Fluorinated materials for the Universal Repulsion of Liquids

Widespread legislation aimed at future restrictions on fluorinated materials and chemicals poses an unprecedented challenge for liquid-repelling applications. Fluorinated materials (e.g. Teflon) have the highest achievable repulsion for liquids under ambient conditions and cannot be matched by any established solutions. A novel approach is therefore required. This project aims to explore a newly established class of materials for this purpose – Sulfur polymers (SPs) formed by inverse vulcanisation.

To date, SPs have been examined for their antimicrobial activity and water purification. However, minimal research has been aimed at their liquid-repellent properties. Through a diverse and tuneable range of compositions, the ability of SPs to repel liquids, as well as their physical properties, can be modified. This is encouraged by initial research results that suggest universal liquid repellence is highly likely.

The principal aim of the proposed PhD will be to examine SPs that are able to universally repel liquids and tailor them to target application areas. The fabricated SPs are envisaged to be capable of forming coatings on fabrics or being used in their bulk form (this includes being spun or drawn into fibres). The PhD student will lead the fabrication, characterisation, and performance testing of the SPs made, and will be provided with comprehensive training in the required techniques.

This project is funded by and run in collaboration with the Defence and Science Laboratory (DSTL) in the UK. DSTL is an executive agency of the Ministry of Defence (MOD) providing world class expertise and delivering cutting-edge science and technology.

Funding

This studentship arrangement covers home tuition fees and provide an annual stipend for up to three years (currently set at the 2023/24 stipend rate of £20,622 pa)

For details of how home fee status is assessed, please see: https://www.qmul.ac.uk/welfare/money-and-practical-advice/tuition-fees/#tuition-howdoesqueen

Eligibility

• The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) or MSc/MRes in a relevant discipline.
• If English is not your first language, you will require a valid English certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall with a minimum score of 6.0 in Writing and 5.5 in all sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking).
• Candidates are expected to start in September (Semester 1).

Contact

For informal enquiries about this opportunity, please contact Colin CRICK or Dimitrios PAPAGEORGIOU.

Apply

Start an application for this studentship and for entry onto the PhD Materials Science full-time programme (Semester 1 / September start)

Please be sure to quote the reference “SEMS-PHD-593” to associate your application with this studentship opportunity.

Related website: https://www.sems.qmul.ac.uk/staff/c.crick