Unravelling the role of corrosion products in the localised corrosion of large scale energy system infrastructure

Carbon dioxide (CO2) corrosion of carbon steel is a degradation mechanism observed across mature and new energy systems, as well as carbon abatement technologies such as Carbon Capture and Storage. The prevalence of this corrosion process is such that it continues to receive unprecedented research attention spanning the last 50 years.<br /> <br /> Despite extensive research activity, the understanding of internal localised corrosion of carbon steel infrastructure, such as pipelines, remains limited. One popular theory to explain localised corrosion relates to the macroscopic differences in surface condition on the internal pipeline wall, generated through the local formation of corrosion products which possess semi-protective properties.<br /> <br /> This PhD project, in collaboration with Qatar Environmental and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and Shell Qatar, seeks to unravel this theory, examining the role of different corrosion products in their ability to initiate and/or sustain localised corrosion. Importantly, the project will devise/identify effective forms of chemical treatment which are able to adequately prevent initiation of localised corrosion or suppress existing levels of attack.<br /> <br /> The PhD researcher will become part of the Corrosion and Mineral Scaling Research Team within the Institute of Functional Surfaces (University of Leeds), a vibrant and diverse research group with expertise in electrochemistry, material characterisation and interfacial science. As part of the project, the researcher will use bespoke corrosion test cells and implement electrochemical measurements to understand corrosion mechanisms in detail. The researcher will gain exposure to a wide range of microscopic and spectroscopic techniques to examine the interaction of corrosion inhibitors with surfaces. Both national and international travel to conferences to present and disseminate research will be actively encouraged, with significant funding available as part of the project.<br /> <br /> <br />

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University&#39;s website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>PHD Mechanical Engineering</strong></em> and in the research information section&nbsp;that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Unravelling the role of corrosion products in the localised corrosion of large scale energy and carbon abatement system infrastructure</strong></em> as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering/staff/501/professor-richard-barker">Professor Richard Barker</a> as your proposed supervisor.&nbsp; Please state clearly in the Finance section that the funding source you are applying for is&nbsp;<em><strong>Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF) Studentship.</strong></em></p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University&#39;s minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing">Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis. &nbsp;Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application. &nbsp;We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of 31 May 2024:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p>A highly competitive Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF) Studentship, in collaboration with Qatar Environmental and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and Shell Qatar, offering the award of fees at the UK fee rate of &pound;4,712, together with an enhanced tax-free maintenance grant of &pound;22,948 per year for 3 years.</p> <p>This opportunity is open to UK applicants only. All candidates will be placed into the Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF) Studentship Competition and selection is based on academic merit.<br /> <br /> Please refer to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a>&nbsp;website for&nbsp;information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For further information about this project, please contact Professor Richard Barker by email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:R.J.Barker@leeds.ac.uk">R.J.Barker@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about your application, please contact Doctoral College Admissions by email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p>