PhD Research Project: Migration of molecules in complex industrial formulation

Many industrial formulations that form part of our daily lives are complex mixtures, e.g. food, hygiene and laundry products, and paints. In many of these systems, migration of constituents (small molecules) to and across the interfaces (that are either exposed to atmosphere or buried in bulk) results in undesired effects. These might include adhesive loss in hygiene products, poor flavour perception, and release of undesired chemicals to the atmosphere. However, such multi-component systems exhibit rich equilibrium and non-equilibrium characteristics, which is often hard to predict.

As a multi-disciplinary research consortium involving University of Birmingham, Durham University, and three industrial partners (P&G, AkzoNobel and Mondelez) who represent very different sectors of the consumer goods industry, we plan to combine theory, computer simulations, and experimental characterization to tackle the problem of molecular migration in complex soft matter systems. Solving these problems will pave the way to efficient formulations that offer reduced waste improved performance and stability in consumer goods. Aim Understanding how surface structure changes as a result of small molecules lateral migration, and the associated timescales and mechanisms.

The objectives of this proposed work are to:
1.) Develop a reliable and robust methodology to probe molecular migration based on advanced scanning probe microscopy
2.) Quantify effects of environmental conditions on molecular migration in complex mixtures
3.) Identify the factors controlling lateral migration

This project provides the PhD candidate with a perfect opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary environment with elements of Physical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and advanced physical characterization. Laboratory skills including Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM), Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM), and nanotribometer will be offered in this project along with an appreciation of surface chemistry and formulation engineering. It will also be possible to participate in international conferences and training schools.

Due to the interdisciplinary nature of this project, students whose background is Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or Physics, with appreciation of material characterisation and formulation, are all welcome. You are expected to be a self-motivated and independent individual with a first class degree or upper second (or equivalent for non-UK students). International applicant needs to present proof of proficiency in English where applicable.

For further details and informal enquiry, please contact Dr Zhenyu J. Zhang (z.j.zhang@bham.ac.uk)

Funding Notes

Funding (both fee and full bursary) is available for EU/UK students. Self-funded students are also welcome.