Chemical control of silica scaling and corrosion in geothermal systems

Silica scaling is commonly found on the surfaces of carbon steel pipelines in the geothermal energy industry. Currently, there is a lack of understanding about the role silica scale plays on corrosion of the underlying steel once a deposit layer has formed. A common method for protecting carbon steel against mineral scaling and corrosion in aqueous CO2-containing environments (such as geothermal systems) is the continuous injection of chemical inhibitors into the process fluid. These inhibitors can function through a number of differing mechanisms in order to reduce the nucleation and/or growth of mineral scales and mitigate corrosion. Towards higher temperatures, the functionality of many chemical inhibitors is lost. Although the development of thermodynamically stable inhibitors is possible, this typically comes at a price of increased toxicity and reduced bio-degradability.<br /> <br /> Due to the ever-tightening legislation associated with chemistries used for industrial processes, the synthesis of new inhibitory molecules proves extremely challenging. Recent research has resulted in the synthesis of a new class of chemistries which have shown potential for control of silica deposition, though the mechanism of inhibition remains unclear. The project will explore new methodologies for the evaluation of such inhibitory molecules for scale and corrosion inhibition using bespoke high pressure and high temperature systems, with the intention of improving the understanding of the inhibition mechanisms.

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University'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 that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Chemical control of silica scaling and corrosion in geothermal systems </strong></em>as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering/staff/6998/dr-joshua-owen">Dr Joshua Owen</a> as your proposed supervisor. Please state clearly in the Finance Section that the funding source you are applying for is <em><strong>School of Mechanical Engineering/SLB Studentship: 2025/26.</strong></em></p> <p>Applications will be considered after the closing date.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application.  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 a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p><strong>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Monday 23 June 2025:</strong></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> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University'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>

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 School of Mechanical Engineering Studentship, in collaboration with SLB, providing the award of full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate of £20,780 per year for 3.5 years. </p> <p>You will be responsible for paying the overtime fee in full in your writing up/overtime year (£340 in Session 2025/26), but the scholarship maintenance allowance will continue to be paid for up to 6 months in the final year of award.</p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by e-mail to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about this project, please contact Dr Joshua Owen by e-mail to <a href="mailto:J.J.Owen@leeds.ac.uk">J.J.Owen@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>