Funded PhD Studentship in Energy-Efficient, Anti-Bacterial Coatings for Ele

at  University College London

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

This PhD project aims to design and develop multifunctional nanosurfaces tailored for advanced automotive applications in partnership with Jaguar Land Rover (JLR). The focus will be on creating innovative surface treatments for the air-conditioning (AC) units in vehicles to address efficiency, safety, and comfort challenges.
Currently, automotive AC heat pumps operate at suboptimal temperatures (around -18°C), leading to efficiency losses due to water condensation and ice formation. This project will develop anti-fogging and anti-icing surfaces that can perform reliably down to -25°C, potentially improving energy efficiency and reducing strain on electric vehicle batteries or lowering CO₂ emissions in combustion engine vehicles. Additionally, by minimizing water accumulation inside the AC unit, the project aims to reduce bacterial growth that can introduce unpleasant odours and health risks within the cabin. Surfaces with antibacterial properties will thus be another essential target.
The research will focus on polymer-based nanosurfaces that combine antifogging, anti-icing, and antibacterial functionalities. In addition to fabrication, the PhD student will conduct accelerated testing and other rigorous performance evaluations to quantify the energy savings, durability, and user comfort enhancements these surfaces may offer.
This project will utilize cutting-edge cleanroom facilities at the London Center for Nanotechnology (LCN), along with the photonic innovations lab, the facilities in Mechanical Engineering and our new laboratories at UCL East. The student will also conduct research at the cutting-edge laboratories of JLR. The student will have unique opportunity to collaborate with a leading automotive company on technologies that hold real-world potential, with hands-on experience in both advanced research and industry-relevant applications.

Please refer the Job description for details