PhD Studentship in Bio-lubricants for EV

Applications are invited for a research studentship in the field of Tribology and Lubrication, leading to the award of a PhD degree. The post is supported by a bursary and fees (at the UK student rate). The candidates should fulfil the eligibility criteria for a home student.

Lubricants are commonly used to ensure energy efficiency and durability of machines, including automotive transmission. Ideally a lubricant film is created between rubbing surfaces, leading to reduction in friction and wear. Since the operating conditions of EV transmission are different from those of internal combustion engine vehicles, lubricants tailored for EV are necessary. One strong contender is ester. Esters are bio-lubricants that can be produced from renewable sources and are environmental friendly. They also provide better energy efficiency due to their low viscosity and better cooling effect with their relatively high thermal conductivity. They are however susceptible to water contaminations and degradation. The impacts of harsh EV operating conditions and water contamination on rheology and lubricant film forming ability of esters are unclear. This experimental project aims to provide fundamental understanding on lubricant film formation mechanisms of esters in rubbing contacts. We will explore how ester molecular structures and water inclusion affect rheology and film formation of ester lubricants. Advanced laser diagnostic characterisation techniques will be used. This will enable design of high performance ester lubricants for EVs.

The project will be hosted by the Tribology Group at Imperial College London, a world renowned tribology group, with a multicultural and multidisciplinary teams of about 60 people. There will also be regular interactions with the industrial sponsor.

You will be an enthusiastic and self-motivated person who meets the academic requirements for enrolment for the PhD degree at Imperial College London. You will have a 1st class honours degree in chemistry, chemical and mechanical engineering or a related subject, and an enquiring and rigorous approach to research together with a strong intellect and disciplined work habits. Good team-working, observational and communication skills are essential.

To find out more about research at Imperial College London in this area, go to:

https://www.imperial.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering/research/

For information on how to apply, plesae click the 'Apply' button, above.

For further details of the post contact Dr Janet Wong j.wong@imperial.ac.uk.

Interested applicants should send an up-to-date curriculum vitae to Dr Wong.

Suitable candidates will be required to complete an electronic application form at Imperial College London in order for their qualifications to be addressed by College Registry.

Closing date: until post filled

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