EPSRC DTP – Thermophysical properties of natural and industrial olivines

Olivine structured phases are of broad interest in both the energy transition and Earth and planetary sciences.

Olivine itself an orthorhombic mineral with the chemistry (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. In the Earth it is the most abundant mineral in the upper most 400km of the Earth and so has controlling influence on plate techtonics and the evolution of the Earth’s surface. Many other chemistries adopt the same structure, and it is these that are of interest to the energy transition. Minerals in the lithiophilite-triphylite, Li(Mn,Fe)PO₄, series are isostructural with olivine, form in association with Li enriched mangmatic systems [1] and are a potential Li resource for battery cathodes. Most interestingly, LiFePO₄ can be fully delithiated and relithiated without destroying the structure [2] resulting in its use as a battery cathode [3]. Understanding the systematic properties of minerals and phases that adopt the olivine structure is therefore scientifically and industrially important.

In the project we will study the thermophysical properties of olivine structured battery materials and their analogues. Properties to be measured include but are not limited to: electical properties, heat capacities, thermal expansion, compressibility, Equations of state and high pressure phase diagrams. Experimental methods will include the use of electrical impedance spectroscopy, differential scanning chalorimetry (DSC), Raman spectropscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), as well as high pressure multi-anvil and diamond-anvil cells. Crystallographic studies will be conducted using conventional x-ray diffraction (XRD), complemented by high energy synchrotron XRD and neutron diffraction methods at central facilities such as the Diamond light source and ISIS respectively. The ultimate directions of the project will be driven by the interests of the student, under the guidance of the supervisory team.

 We are looking for a strongly motivated student with a background in Materials Science, Earth Sciences, chemistry, physics or a related physical science discipline to join our research group. Some knowledge or previous experience in electron microscopy, XRD, materials processing, coding, data manipulation, experimental petrology and measurement of mechanical or functional properties would be beneficial but not necessary, since you will receive training in all the relevant experimental and analytical methods. You will be encouraged to attend national and international conferences to share your research.

Entry Requirements:

Students with, or to achieve, a 2.1 degree or above in Materials Science, Geology, Earth sciences, chemistry, physics or a related subject.

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact. We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder). 

How to apply:

You will need to submit an online application through our website here: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/admissions/how-to-apply/ – ensure you mention ‘EPSRC DTP’ and the title / supervisor of the project in the ‘Research Details’ section of the application.