Saturn_Nuclear_CDT
UoM_Nuclear
This PhD project will investigate how zeolite ion-exchange materials change during long-term storage in sealed containers within nuclear fuel storage ponds, and how these changes influence the retention or release of key radionuclides such as 137Cs and 90Sr. The work addresses an important challenge for nuclear decommissioning at the Sellafield site and will combine advanced experimental characterisation, radionuclide partitioning studies and geochemical modelling.
Fuel storage ponds have been used for many decades to store spent nuclear fuel. The safe management and decommissioning of these facilities is a major priority for the UK nuclear sector. During pond operations, zeolites such as AW-500 chabazite have been widely used to reduce the concentrations of fission-product radionuclides in pond water, primarily through ion-exchange processes.
At some sites, including Sellafield, containers loaded with zeolites were immersed in fuel storage ponds, sealed, and then stored for up to 30 years. During this time, the zeolites and associated fluids have remained isolated from the surrounding pond water. A combination of radiological, physical and chemical processes is likely to have altered the structural, physical and chemical properties of the zeolite minerals, but the condition of the materials will not be fully known until the containers are opened.
Understanding how these materials have aged is therefore essential for planning safe retrieval, handling and decommissioning. Radiation damage, mineralogical alteration and changes in solution chemistry may affect the ability of the zeolite to retain or release radionuclides, including 90Sr and 137Cs.
Project aims
The aim of this PhD is to develop a detailed understanding of the physical, structural and chemical properties of zeolites and associated fluids after more than 30 years of storage in sealed containers within Sellafield nuclear fuel storage ponds.
Research approach and training
The experimental component of the project will focus on materials characterisation and radionuclide partitioning using specialised facilities within the NNUF RADER facility (https://www.nnuf.ac.uk/rader). The student will gain experience in working with radioactive materials and in applying advanced analytical techniques to complex nuclear decommissioning problems.
The project will involve a combination of irradiation experiments, advanced microscopy and spectroscopy, and geochemical modelling. This may include beta/gamma irradiation using the Dalton Cumbria Facility, advanced electron and X-ray microscopy, and synchrotron-based approaches at Diamond Light Source (https://www.diamond.ac.uk). Computational tools such as PHREEQC will be used to model the key processes controlling fluid and solid-phase changes during long-term ageing.
Candidate profile
We are looking for a motivated and capable student with a strong interest in environmental mineralogy, geochemistry, materials science, chemistry, nuclear engineering and/or a closely related discipline. Experience of mineralogical/solid state characterisation, aqueous chemistry, radioactive materials, modelling or microscopy would be advantageous, but full training will be provided. The most important qualities are scientific curiosity, careful experimental practice, willingness to work across disciplines, and enthusiasm for applying fundamental science to a nationally important decommissioning challenge.
Project impact
The results of this study will provide important new information on the condition, stability and radionuclide retention behaviour of aged zeolite materials in nuclear fuel pond environments. This knowledge will support decision-making for the retrieval and decommissioning of zeolite-containing components at Sellafield and will contribute to broader understanding of mineral-fluid-radionuclide interactions in engineered radioactive waste systems.
Nuclear Boot Camp (Months 1 - 3)
The Bootcamp is based in Manchester.
Eligibility
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline.
Before you apply
We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor(s) for this project before you apply. For informal enquiries, please contact Sam Shaw at sam.shaw@manchester.ac.uk.
Projects are subject to funding confirmation
How to apply
Please complete the Enquiry Form to express your interest. We strongly recommend you contact the project supervisor after completing the form to speak to them about your suitability for the project.
If your qualifications meet our standard entry requirements, the CDT Admissions Team will send your enquiry form and CV to the named project supervisor.
Our application process can also be found on our website: here If you have any questions, please contact SATURN@manchester.ac.uk.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.
We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.
We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).
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