PhD Studentship – Modelling of biomass gasification in dual fluidised bed reactors using computational particle fluid dynamics (CPFD)

Fully Funded PhD Studentship in Dundalk, Ireland.

Primary Research Area: Bioenergy; Mechanical Engineering; Chemical Engineering; Thermodynamics; Fluid Mechanics

Keywords: Computational fluid dynamics; CPFD simulation; Indirect steam gasification; Allothermal gasification; Fluidised bed hydrodynamics

Project Overview:

The decarbonisation of the Irish heat and transport sectors has proven very challenging. Solid biomass such as wood can be converted to gaseous or liquid energy products for use as a renewable transport fuel or for heating. The first step in this conversion process is biomass gasification, where the solid fuel is converted to a combustible product gas. Dual fluidised bed (DFB) gasifiers, consisting of two separate fluidised bed reactors, are well suited to these applications. There is a need for accurate models that can aid in the design and optimisation of these systems. Computational particle fluid dynamics (CPFD) models, with gasification and combustion zones, heat transfer and chemical reactions considered, would satisfy this need. The aim of this research work is to develop CPFD models of DFB gasification technologies. The models will be developed using Barracuda VR software and will be validated against published plant/experimental data from pilot and industrial scale units. A key objective is to explore ways to minimise model computational time. Once an acceptable model computational time has been achieved, an extensive parametric study will be conducted revealing the impact of important operating parameters such as, reactor temperatures, steam to biomass ratio, biomass feed position, etc.

Type of Degree Offered: PhD – Full Time registration only

Minimum Qualifications: Applicants should hold a minimum 2:1 degree in mechanical engineering or a related engineering/science discipline.

Experience/Expertise required: In-depth knowledge of biomass gasification processes, fluidised bed reactors and of fluid mechanics and heat transfer (multiphase systems); expertise in computational fluid dynamics and experience with CPFD modelling, preferably using Barracuda VR software or similar; geometric modelling; numerical methods; programming; analytical thinking & problem solving; excellent written English and oral communication skills.

Applicants whose first language is not English, must demonstrate a recent (within 12 months) minimum proficiency in English at 6.5 on the IELTS scale or equivalent. Applicants whose first language is not English, but who have attained their primary degree through the medium of English, are not subject to the above requirement.

Supervisory Team: Dr Wayne Doherty & Dr Fergal O’Rourke, Department of Electronic & Mechanical Engineering

For informal queries: For Informal queries relating to the project, please contact: wayne.doherty@dkit.ie

Please note canvassing will render an applicant ineligible.

The enterprise partner for this project is a large energy company in Ireland. The PhD candidate will be required to complete a 12-week placement at a power plant operated by the enterprise partner during the 4-year project.

How to Apply

Applicants please create an account HERE.

Select Academic term 2024/25, Academic Level is Postgraduate Research and Programme is CREATE PhD19

As part of the application you will be required to upload a copy of your CV including references and a one-page cover letter outlining your suitability for this position and your motivation. Also required are copies of your Transcripts of results and where applicable IELTS qualifications. These will be requested after you submit your application.

The deadline for receipt of applications is 4 pm (GMT) on Friday 9th August 2024. It is expected that applicants will start no later than mid October 2024.

DkIT reserves the right to extend this deadline