Stability and Partitioning of chemical markers associated with the ageing of transformer paper insulation

Ageing status of transformer paper insulation is commonly estimated through chemical markers that are generated through the degradation of cellulose. 2-Furfural and methanol are some commonly used ageing markers. Once generated these markers undergo a complex partitioning process between solid and liquid insulation. Furthermore, some of the markers may undergo further reactions affecting their stability in the liquid. The stability and partitioning of the markers are impacted by various factors including material types, ageing status, temperature and other environmental factors. Therefore, the understanding of the partitioning and stability of these markers is vital for an accurate DP estimation. This project will investigate the partitioning of chemical markers and their stability aspects through a combination of laboratory experiments and simulation approaches.

Eligibility

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, first class honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline. Applicants must be able to demonstrate their research experience through contribution to international journal or conference publications.

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact Dr. Shanika Matharage through shanika.matharage@manchester.ac.uk for this project before you apply.

How to apply

Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-fap

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it).
• Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• English Language certificate (if applicable)

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk.

Funding

This 3.5 year PhD is fully funded for UK and overseas students; tuition fees are paid and a tax free stipend is also provided, set at the UKRI rate (£19,237 for 2024/25). The start date is September 2025.

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).