Improving the energy efficiency of heating and cooling processes is an essential step towards decarbonisation and climate change mitigation. Biaco is a UK energy company founded in 2020 that has proposed a potentially revolutionary low-cost, low-carbon technology based on plasma heating. The Biaco vessel uses chemical reactions to convert electricity and tap water into heat. The vessel produces energy efficient heat at temperatures between 70°C to 300°C. Even when operated using electricity at UK average grid intensity, it creates a CO₂ saving of 85% compared to a gas boiler. In the process, the hot reactive plasma breaks down contaminants in the water, so can also be applied for water purification.

Despite the enormous potential of this technology, little is known regarding the precise mechanism by which heat is produced within the boiler. There are a myriad of potential reaction pathways, which are strongly dependent on the composition of the inlet water stream, and the performance of the system is highly dependent on inlet and operating conditions. Furthermore, the interactions of the plasma and reaction intermediates with the materials at the electrode surface have not yet been clarified, and this lack of understanding is limiting the lifetime of the electrode materials.

This PhD project will deploy state-of-the-art molecular modelling techniques to: 

• describe the chemical reaction pathways that govern the energy production process, generating new mechanistic understanding of the system
• model interactions between the components of the mixture at the electrode interface, gaining insight into charge transfer processes and material degradation pathways

The insights from molecular modelling will be fed into a macroscopic model of the entire system that will ultimately enable predictive control over the operating conditions of the boiler, thus allowing for increased lifetime and facilitating its adaptation to bespoke applications. 

The project is industry-driven and involves a close collaboration with the Biaco team, including placements at the company. It will appeal to students who are motivated by curiosity-driven research and want to make a difference on our path towards sustainable energy production.

Further information

In addition to undertaking cutting edge research, students are also registered for the Postgraduate Certificate in Researcher Development (PGCert), which is a supplementary qualification that develops a student’s skills, networks and career prospects.

Further information about the Chemical & Process Engineering department

Further information about the Chemical & Process Engineering PhD