Skip to main content

Combustion and Energy

PGR-RA-113

Expertise of research area
auto-ignition; burning velocities; detonation; explosions; flaring; hydrogen; Knock; pollution; turbulence


<h2 class="heading hide-accessible">Summary</h2>

Fundamentals of laminar and turbulent combustion that also might also culminate in detonation. This relates to knocking in engines, fire and explosion hazards, conversion from methane to hydrogen gas burning, venting of nuclear reactors, combustion in gas turbines, and furnaces.

<h2 class="heading hide-accessible">Full description</h2>

<p>Leeds is renowned for its fan-stirred explosion vessel for the measurement of turbulent burning rates, the quenching of turbulent flames and determination of critical sizes of flame kernels. In recent years the Leeds Detonation Peninsula has provided a “short cut”, avoiding complex modelling, in the assessment of knocking possibilities in internal combustion engines. International work on jet flames, involving Mexico, Barcelona, and use of the large wind tunnel at Hefei, China. This has led to improved understanding of non-premixed combustion, venting and flaring in crosswinds. This has also led to improved understanding of flame instabilities, and their relevance in large scale atmospheric explosions.</p> <p>We have opportunities for prospective postgraduate researchers and welcome enquiries from candidates interested in <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering-research-thermofluids/doc/institute-thermofluids">our research areas</a>.</p> <h5>Why do your PhD at Leeds? </h5> <p><strong>96% of our research is world-leading (REF 2021) </strong><br /> At Leeds, our research addresses the most prevalent real-world challenges – providing solutions that have had both a national and global impact. <br /> <strong>Study in an active research environment </strong><br /> Studying your PhD with us means you’ll be working in a professional research environment, using UK-leading facilities to bring your project to life – alongside active researchers who are at the forefront of their area. <br /> <strong>A strong network of support  </strong><br /> The Leeds Doctoral College connects our community of researchers and can offer you the guidance, services and opportunities you’ll need to get the most out of your PhD. <br /> <strong>Close industry links </strong><br /> Our partnerships and links to companies and academic institutions give you the opportunity to network at industry talks, seminars and conferences, building connections that'll benefit your next steps after you complete your PhD. <br /> <strong>Professional skills development  </strong><br /> We think of the whole picture at Leeds. That’s why we offer a range of workshops and courses that'll enhance your skillset further and transfer into your professional career. <br /> <strong>Personal and wellbeing services </strong><br /> Mental health and wellbeing support are integral to who we are at Leeds and you’ll have access to the full range of services we offer to ensure you’re feeling your best – and reaching your potential in your studies. <br /> <strong>Join our global community </strong><br /> We welcome students, researchers, academics, partners and alumni from more than 140 countries, all over the world. This means, as a university, we’re bringing together different cultures and perspectives which helps strengthen our research – and societal impact.</p> <h3>Useful links and further reading:</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering-research-degrees">Research degrees within the School of Mechanical Engineering</a></li> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering-research-thermofluids/doc/institute-thermofluids">Institute of Thermofluids</a></li> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering-research-innovation">School of Mechanical Engineering, Research and Innovation</a></li> </ul> <h3>Leeds Doctoral College</h3> <p>Our <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-leeds-doctoral-college">Doctoral College</a> supports you throughout your postgraduate research journey. It brings together all the support services and opportunities to enhance your research, your development, and your overall experience.</p>

<h2 class="heading">How to apply</h2>

<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>.</p>

<h2 class="heading">Contact details</h2>

<p>For queries relating to your research proposal or subject area, please contact <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering/staff/141/professor-derek-bradley">Professor Derek Bradley</a>.</p> <p>For general enquiries and details regarding the application process, please contact the Graduate School Office:</p> <p>e: <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a>, t: +44 (0)113 34 35057</p>


<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Linked funding opportunities</h2>