This PhD project would represent a new collaboration for the principle supervisor, Rhodri Jervis, but a continuation of a collaboration with Prof Brett. The project is well aligned with my academic goals, and I have a background in applying new materials to fuel cells and fuel cell diagnostics. Applying advanced diagnostics, in situ and synchrotron techniques to electrochemical devices is the focus of my first grant application, and having the support of a PhD student in this topic at this stage in my career will be hugely valuable.
Briefly, the aim of this project is to develop new advanced diagnostic techniques in order to investigate the behaviour and internal working of the PEMFC and PEMFC stack as well as optimising the lamination conditions of the MEAs in terms of power and cost. Co supervision from Bramble will ensure a close working relationship between the academic and the company, as well as affording the student a full exposure to the company and their technology.