PhD Studentship - Application of Novel Photocatalytic Materials for Degradation of Microplastics in Printed Textiles Laundry Wastewater

Project advert

Microplastics are one of the most pressing environmental issues today, recognized for their persistence in ecosystems and potential harm to human health. The full extent of the risks posed by microplastics is still being studied, but they are widely acknowledged to be significant contaminants of both water and soil, affecting ecosystems and potentially entering the food chain. The rise of additive manufacturing technologies has the potential to exacerbate microplastics pollution. 

This PhD project will focus on the degradation of microplastics in wastewater, particularly from laundry discharge of 3D printed textiles. The project will build on cutting-edge research by Dr. Marina Ratova, which has demonstrated the potential of photocatalysis – a process that uses light to activate a catalyst and break down contaminants – in degrading microplastics in laboratory settings. The project aims to further investigate the practical applications of this technology for treating wastewater from manufacturing facilities like Print City at Manchester Metropolitan University. By adapting and scaling up this photocatalytic method, the project will offer innovative solutions to microplastic pollution, with potential to reduce environmental contamination from industrial and domestic laundry discharges. Through this, the research will contribute to sustainable water treatment technologies, supporting environmental conservation and industrial innovation.

Project aims and objectives

This research project will investigate the applicability of advanced oxidation processes to combat microplastics and other emerging pollutants. 

Research objectives:

• Investigation of the content and nature of microplastics in laundry discharge of printed textiles; 
• Implementation of photocatalytic/photo-electrocatalytic water treatment techniques as solutions to minimise the microplastics discharge into wastewater;
• Design of single device prototype incorporating the studied treatment technology, mountable at the outlet of the washing unit and aimed at minimising microplastics pollution.

Funding

The student will be in receipt of a stipend payment; the Research Council minimum rate (set by UKRI) £20,780 for 2025/26.

Home and Overseas students can apply. Home fees are covered. Eligible overseas students will need to make up the difference in tuition fee funding. 

Specific requirements of the candidate

We are looking for a highly motivated and talented candidate with a strong background in one or more of the following fields:

• Materials Science/Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Chemistry. 

Experience in photocatalysis, water treatment technologies, or microplastics research would be an advantageous, but not essential. Practical experience in analytical chemistry, materials characterisation or vacuum coating techniques would be beneficial. Candidates would be expected to have strong communication skills and an ability to work across disciplines.

How to apply

Interested applicants should contact Dr Marina Ratova (m.ratova@mmu.ac.uk)  for an informal discussion. 

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in Engineering. 

You should also complete a narrative CV (500-1000 words) addressing the project’s aims and objectives, demonstrating how the skills you have map to the area of research, how your experience makes you suitable for this position, and why you see this area as being of importance and interest.  

You will need to upload your statement in the supporting documents section of the University’s Admissions Portal.

Applications closing date: 18 May 2025 

Expected start date: October 2025. 

Please quote the reference: SciEng-MR-2025-Photocatalytic microplastics degradation

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