Carbon capture technologies are essential for reducing industrial greenhouse gas emissions; however, conventional amine-based solvents suffer from high volatility, degradation, corrosion, and significant energy requirements during regeneration. Amino acid salts (AAS) have emerged as promising alternatives due to their low toxicity, negligible vapour pressure, and superior thermal stability. Despite these advantages, their industrial deployment remains limited by increased viscosity following CO\u2082 absorption, reduced mass-transfer efficiency, and operational challenges associated with solvent foaming.
This project will develop and evaluate a novel foam-controlled amino acid salt solvent system comprising potassium sarcosinate (K-Sar), Aerosol OT (AOT), ethylene glycol (EG), and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The research will investigate the interactions between viscosity reduction, gas\u2013liquid mass transfer enhancement, and foam suppression to improve CO\u2082 capture performance. By addressing key limitations of current AAS systems, the project aims to advance the development of a highly stable, reusable, and energy-efficient solvent platform for industrial carbon capture applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Aim <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The primary aim of this project is to develop and optimise a foam-controlled amino acid salt solvent system for rapid and energy-efficient carbon dioxide capture from industrial flue gases. The research will investigate the synergistic effects of potassium sarcosinate, Aerosol OT, ethylene glycol, and polydimethylsiloxane on CO\u2082 absorption capacity, mass-transfer kinetics, viscosity management, foam control, and solvent recyclability. The goal is to establish a scalable and sustainable carbon capture platform that overcomes the operational limitations of conventional amino acid salt systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Objectives <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Significance <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal Candidate <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with a background in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline. The successful applicant should possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with an interest in carbon capture technologies, reaction engineering, sustainable process development, and green solvents. Experience in laboratory-based research, chemical process design, physicochemical characterisation, gas absorption systems, or process modelling is desirable but not essential. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and eligibility for enrolment in a PhD program at Curtin University are required. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This project is open to International and Domestic applicants.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scholarship <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you are identified as the preferred candidate for this project, you may be considered for an RTP scholarship<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Enquires and How to Apply <\/p>\n\n\n\n For enquires about this opportunity contact Associate Professor Tejas Bhatelia at\u00a0T.Bhatelia@curtin.edu.au<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n