Degradation mechanisms of cement/steel-cement interfaces with novel cementitious materials in simulated Carbon Capture/Storage wellbore conditions

Geological Carbon Capture and Storage is a critical technology for reducing global carbon dioxide emissions and achieving net-zero targets. A key challenge in carbon capture and storage is maintaining the long-term integrity of injection wells used to store carbon dioxide deep underground. These wells consist of steel casing surrounded by a cement sheath that isolates the well from surrounding rock formations. Exposure to high pressure, high temperature environments and supercritical carbon dioxide can degrade cement and steel cement interfaces, potentially compromising well integrity and leading to leakage pathways. This PhD project will investigate the degradation mechanisms affecting cement and steel cement interfaces in simulated carbon capture storage wellbore environments. The research will focus on developing and evaluating novel cementitious materials and additives designed to improve chemical resistance and long-term durability under carbon dioxide rich conditions. The project will involve experimental investigation of cement carbonation, corrosion processes and interface stability under high pressure, high temperature conditions representative of carbon capture storage wells. The role of carbon dioxide impurities, fluid chemistry and material composition in accelerating degradation will be examined. Advanced characterisation techniques will be used to monitor microstructural changes, corrosion behaviour and phase transformations in cement and steel cement interfaces. The research will be conducted in collaboration with industry partner SLB and the Institute of Functional Surfaces at the University of Leeds, which has extensive expertise in corrosion science and materials degradation in demanding environments. The successful candidate may have the opportunity to undertake a placement at the SLB Research and Development facilities in Aberdeen, gaining exposure to industrial wellbore testing systems and carbon capture storage technologies. This project will provide fundamental understanding of degradation processes in carbon capture storage well materials and contribute to the development of more durable cement systems for subsurface energy infrastructure. The outcomes will support safe and reliable carbon dioxide storage, reduce environmental risks and help enable large-scale deployment of carbon capture storage technologies.

Not explicitly listed; standard UK PhD entry requirements for EPSRC-funded studentships assumed (strong background in Civil, Mechanical, Structural, or Materials Engineering).

Applications are part of the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award (Industrial Competition) Studentship in collaboration with SLB. Applicants must submit via the University of Leeds postgraduate application portal, including standard documents (CV, transcripts, personal statement, references). Selection is based on academic merit.