EPSRC supported EngD: Understanding the physico-chemical properties of complex soil to drive sustainable cleaning products and processes.

Disrupting the interactions between soil and substrate (fabrics, hard surfaces) and breaking up the accumulated soils is the essential step for an effective cleaning. Environmental issues and energy costs are driving the cleaning process toward shorter, cooler washes and the use of less aggressive pH levels, closer to neutrality. However, under these conditions, current cleaning technologies designed for higher temperatures and longer wash cycles, typically coupled with moderately alkaline conditions, are not as effective and satisfactory. Incomplete cleaning leads to the buildup of soil deposits over time, making them increasingly difficult to remove and ultimately driving consumer dissatisfaction.

This project aims to elucidate the key physical interactions (adhesion, cohesion) within the stains and with the substrate, along with the mechanical properties (viscoelasticity under shear, tribology, etc.) of stains, as a function of exposure to environmental parameters (temperature, humidity, time) and wash actives (polymers, chelants, surfactants, fabric enhancers, etc.). This understanding will then be applied in the development of technological approaches for effective stain removal and product improvement.

Working closely with the industrial partner P&G, a leading fast moving consumer goods company, the EngD candidate will develop a wide range of skills in colloidal and interface science, as well a suite of analytical skills, establishing a broad appreciation of formulation engineering. They will build a portfolio of transferrable skills such as project management, communication and team working, which ensures excellent employability upon completion of the project.

Funding notes:

To be eligible for EPSRC funding candidates must have at least a 2(1) in an Engineering or Scientific discipline or a 2(2) plus MSc.

To apply please email your cv to cdt-formulation@contacts.bham.ac.uk.

Open to UK nationals only due to funding restrictions.

For details on the Engineering Doctorate scheme visit the homepage (http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/chemical-engineering/postgraduate/eng-d/index.aspx).