Fabrication of MOF-based mixed matrix membranes for carbon capture through visible light 3D printing

About this project

Develop new methods of capturing carbon

Are you passionate about a career in materials engineering and keen to address environmental issues around CO² emissions? The University of South Australia – Australia’s University of Enterprise – is offering an innovative project-based PhD with significant impact in our Future Industries Institute, in partnership with Santos Ltd. 

CO² emissions are generally accepted as the leading cause of climate change and global warming. Global emissions need to fall by 50% by 2030 to keep temperature rises in check. Metal organic frameworks (MOFs)-based mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) have emerged as promising candidates for CO² capture, because they are flexible and multifunctional and have enhanced permeability and selectivity. 

However, the poor filler–polymer compatibility is still a major challenge in the fabrication of MOF-based MMMs. The weak interfacial adhesion between the fillers and the polymer matrix causes defects, particle aggregation and sedimentation, as well as polymer chain rigidification, which leads to a huge reduction in membrane selectivity and mechanical failure.

Our project aims to develop a green approach to fabricate high-performance MOF-based MMMs through visible light 3D printing. 3D printing has great potential for developing advanced functional materials for carbon capture in a simple, controllable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly manner.

We aim to design MOF-containing printable ink formulations, so that functionalised MOFs that are visible light active will be incorporated into polymeric membranes using visible light 3D printing. MOFs-based MMMs with enhanced membrane performance in both selectivity and permeability will be fabricated by precisely controlling the interface between MOF and polymer phases.

You will join the Future Industries Institute (FII), which is an internationally recognised research institute that solves real-world problems via collaboration, innovation, and technological advances. You will benefit from access to a range of state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure designed to develop innovative solutions to the challenges facing the environment and the global transition to a low-carbon economy.



What you’ll do

In this project-based research degree, you will undertake applied research associated with fabricating MOF-based MMMs for carbon capture through visible light 3D printing. You will design MOF-containing 3D printable ink formulations through the functionalisation of MOFs and the synthesis of novel monomers.

There will be opportunities for you to present your work at national and international conferences relevant, which will help expand your communication and networking skills. 

Upon completion, you will have expertise in materials engineering and 3D printing under visible light, as well as strong skills in scientific writing, project management, and IP management.

Where you’ll be based

You will be based in the Future Industries Institute (FII) which was established with a new research culture in mind – one deeply engaged with industry, with the end goal of building economic growth through relevant innovation and industry partnership.

The Institute reflects the University’s strategic ambition to be Australia’s University of Enterprise which engages fully with the professions and industry globally, whose research is informed, leading edge and relevant. FII continues to forge national and international research partnerships in new industries and technologies that address real world issues. Our goal is to support a creative and engaged culture and to help develop a sustainable ecosystem in which innovation, complex, growth-focused industries thrive.

FII's research supports state and national research priorities and comprises top research teams able to collaborate across disciplines and to work with industry partners to deliver innovative solutions.

With a vibrant research environment, a strong industry orientation, and active international and national links, both academic and industry based, the Institute is among the very best in Australia and attracts and retains leading researchers. Financial Support 

This project is funded for reasonable research expenses. Additionally, a living allowance scholarship of $32,500 per annum is available to eligible applicants. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants will be eligible to receive an increased stipend rate of $50,291 per annum (2024 rates). A fee-offset or waiver for the standard term of the program is also included. For full terms and benefits of the scholarship please refer to our scholarship information for domestic students or international students.

Eligibility and Selection

This project is open to application from both domestic and international applicants.

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for entrance into a PhD. Additionally, applicants must meet the projects selection criteria: 

• An academic background in the field of Metal-Organic Frameworks, composites, 3D printing, or photopolymerisation.

All applications that meet the eligibility and selection criteria will be considered for this project. A merit selection process will be used to determine the successful candidate.

The successful applicant is expected to study full-time and to be based at our Mawson Lakes Campus in the north of Adelaide. Note that international students on a student visa will need to study full-time.

Essential Dates 

Applicants are expected to start in a timely fashion upon receipt of an offer.  Extended deferral periods are not available. Applications close on Wednesday, 27 November 2024.