PhD Opportunity: Machine learning-based kinetic modelling on the thermal decomposition of plastic waste via pyrolysis

Job No.: 661850

Location: Clayton / Advanced Fuel Innovation premises in Melbourne VIC

Employment Type: Full-time

Duration: 4-year fixed-term appointment

Remuneration: Scholarship package of $46,000 annually (2024 rate)

Project Description

The project is under the CSIRO’s Industry PhD (iPhD) Program that brings together an industry partner, a university (Monash University for this project) and CSIRO to co-develop a four-year industry-focussed PhD project. You will receive a four-year scholarship package of $46,000 annually (2024 rate) if successful. To be eligible, you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or Australian permanent resident. Please see other eligibility requirements and other details at the following link.

www.csiro.au/en/careers/Scholarships-student-opportunities/Postgraduate-programs-and-Scholarships/Industry-PhD/iPhD-Student

This project aims to develop a machine learning-based kinetic model for an accurate prediction of the product yield and quality from the pyrolysis of plastic waste. The primary outcome of the project is the development of a robust model that is effective in simulating the entire pyrolysis process at a relatively low computing cost, whereas its results will be sufficiently accurate to predict the composition and yields of the products. As a heterogeneous material with different types and compositions, waste plastic has a varying product distribution upon its thermal decomposition, which is further complicated by the process operating parameters such as heating rate, reactor type and the addition of catalyst within the reactor. This PhD project is significant in addressing this scientific knowledge gap, thereby delivering an accurate model that is beneficial in large-scale reactor sizing and product quality control. Ultimately, the project will have an impact on the development of a circular economy within Australia and even globally, promoting the recycling and reuse of waste plastic in a value-added manner.

Desired Student Skillset

Essential Skills: An H1 or H2A bachelor's degree in the relevant discipline area or equivalent accreditation and standing, with a primary study area in Computer Science and/or Chemical Engineering or equivalent; Excellent mathematical and programming skills, in particular in the areas of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning including deep learning and network-based optimisation; and coding programs including Python, T and Matlab; and excellent written and verbal communication skills.

(Optional) Desirable skills: Degree and/or knowledge of core chemical engineering disciplines such as reaction engineering, kinetic and process simulation and knowledge of chemistry and polymer science.

To Apply

Please visit: www.monash.edu/engineering/future-students/graduate-research/how-to-apply

Enquiries

Further enquiries about the scholarship or application process should be directed to the Graduate Research Office, [email protected] or visit the website, www.monash.edu/engineering/future-students/graduate-research/phd .

Dr Jackie Rong (Monash University), [email protected]
Prof Lian Zhang (Monash University), [email protected]
Dr Zongli Xie (CSIRO), [email protected]
Dr Michael Batten (CSIRO), [email protected]
Dr Lei Zhang (Advanced Fuel Innovation Ptd Ltd), [email protected]

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