TUO
Development of Solid-State Composites for Safe and Efficient Hydrogen Storage
✓ Funded (Competition)
🎓 Applied Chemistry
🎓 Chemical Engineering
🎓 Energy Technologies
🎓 Materials Science
🎓 Physical Chemistry
materials engineering
MOFs
adsorption kinetics
clean energy
composites
decarbonisation
energy systems
hydrogen storage
renewable energy
solid-state materials
PhD at the University of Manchester focused on developing advanced solid-state materials for hydrogen storage. Combines materials engineering and chemistry to improve storage efficiency, safety, and performance for clean energy applications.
Project Description
This PhD project addresses a critical challenge in the transition to clean energy: efficient and safe hydrogen storage. hydrogen energy is a promising solution for decarbonising sectors such as transportation and energy systems due to its high energy density and zero carbon emissions at the point of use.
The research focuses on advancing solid-state hydrogen storage materials, which offer advantages such as improved safety, higher volumetric density, and lower operating pressures compared to conventional storage methods. However, current materials face limitations including slow hydrogen absorption/desorption kinetics and poor long-term stability.
This project aims to overcome these challenges by developing novel solid-state composites with enhanced interfacial properties and improved performance. Key objectives include:
Engineering composite materials to enhance hydrogen storage capacity
Improving absorption and desorption kinetics
Investigating microstructural evolution and mechanical properties
Understanding fundamental mechanisms governing hydrogen-material interactions
The research will involve experimental materials synthesis and characterisation, alongside detailed analysis of hydrogen storage behaviour. Outcomes will contribute to next-generation energy storage technologies, supporting global decarbonisation goals and enabling wider adoption of hydrogen in sectors such as automotive and aviation.
Entry Requirements
Minimum 2:1 honours degree or equivalent in materials science, chemistry, physics, or engineering
Strong interest in energy materials and experimental research
Background in materials characterisation or chemistry (desirable)
Strong interest in energy materials and experimental research
Background in materials characterisation or chemistry (desirable)
How to Apply
Apply via the University of Manchester postgraduate application portal
Steps:
Select the relevant PhD programme
Mention project title and supervisors
Indicate funding status or interest in scholarships
Required documents:
CV
Academic transcripts and certificates
Supporting statement (1–2 pages)
Two referees
English language certificate (if applicable)
Before applying, applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the lead supervisor:
peng.gong@manchester.ac.uk
Steps:
Select the relevant PhD programme
Mention project title and supervisors
Indicate funding status or interest in scholarships
Required documents:
CV
Academic transcripts and certificates
Supporting statement (1–2 pages)
Two referees
English language certificate (if applicable)
Before applying, applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the lead supervisor:
peng.gong@manchester.ac.uk
Eligibility
UK/Home
EU
International
Supervisor Profile
PG
Peng Gong, Philip Withers, James Robson, David Knowles
The University of Manchester, Department of Materials
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