Condensation is a heat transfer process in which a vapor releases energy/heat as it changes its phase to become a liquid, which typically occurs when the vapor is cooled below its dew temperature, often upon making contact with a cooler surface. This process is critical in numerous applications, including in HVAC systems, power generation, and refrigeration. The effectiveness of dropwise condensation in transferring heat makes it essential in condensers, where minimizing the surface area for dropwise condensation and optimizing conditions for heat transfer can significantly enhance system efficiency. Techniques such as enhancing surface properties or controlling fluid dynamics are often employed to maximize the rate of heat transfer during the condensation process.
Recently, we developed new techniques to modify surfaces with regions that can tune the surface properties and control the fluid dynamics of condensing droplets via patterned liquid-like surfaces, which are based on Slippery Covalently Attached Liquid-like Surfaces (SCALS). In this experimental project, you will tackle questions involving condensation on patterned liquid-like surfaces: we are interested in understanding how the different SCALS chemistries and the nature of the patterning affect condensation and heat transfer and help to maintain a stable heat flux during condensation phase-changes. This will require parametric and methodological studies and by answering questions like these, you will be pushing the boundaries of knowledge in this field and kick-start your postgraduate career.
We expect that you will have a good degree in Engineering or Physics with an experimental and modelling background. We are particularly interested to hear from applicants with experience in surface science, fluids dynamics and fluid mechanics and/or phase change.
If successful, you will become a member of the Wetting, Interfacial Sciences and Engineering WISE Group within the Institute for Multiscale Thermofluids at the School of Engineering. You will join a vibrant community of PhD students, postdoctoral research associates and academics working in various aspects of surfaces and wetting, and will develop as a scientist benefiting from our track record, which includes publications in top journals, international collaborations and contributions to key international conferences.
Further Information:
The University of Edinburgh is committed to equality of opportunity for all its staff and students, and promotes a culture of inclusivity. Please see details here: https://www.ed.ac.uk/equality-diversity
Closing Date:
Principal Supervisor:
Assistant Supervisor:
Eligibility:
Minimum entry qualification - an Honours degree at 2:1 or above (or International equivalent) in Engineering or Physics with an experimental and modelling background, possibly supported by an MSc Degree. We are particularly interested to hear from applicants with experience in surface science, fluids dynamics and fluid mechanics and/or phase change.
Further information on English language requirements for EU/Overseas applicants.
Funding:
Applications are welcomed from self-funded students, or students who are applying for scholarships from the University of Edinburgh or elsewhere. Further information and other funding options.
Informal Enquiries:
Dr Gary Wells (Gary.Wells@ed.ac.uk)
