Taste of Research Summer Scholarships

2025 Projects - School of Chemical Engineering

Chemical Engineering Research Areas

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Projects offered by other Engineering Schools that may be of interest.

Chemical Engineering Projects

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Project Title:	Utilization of Native Australian Pigface Leaves for Edible Coatings
Name of Supervisor:	Dr. Rishi Ravindra Naik
Email of Supervisor:	r.naik@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Prof. Cordelia Selomulya
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Advanced Manufacturing and Processing Technologies
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Pigface (Carpobrotus spp.) is a succulent plant native to coastal regions of Australia. Known for its thick, fleshy leaves and vibrant flowers, pigface has traditionally been used for its edible fruits and medicinal properties [1] [2]. Pigface leaves are characterized by their triangular, fleshy structure, which is rich in mucilage—a gelatinous substance that can be extracted and used for various applications making them suitable for developing edible coatings [3] [4]. Additionally, pigface leaves contain bioactive compounds with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which can potentially enhance the shelf life and safety of food products [5]. Despite these promising attributes, pigface remains underutilized in Australia. The plant is often overlooked in favor of more conventional crops, and its potential applications in food technology and sustainable packaging are not widely explored [1]. By tapping into this underutilized resource, this project aims to promote the use of native Australian plants in innovative and environmentally friendly ways.
Research Environment:	This research project offers students a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of food science, technology, and sustainability. By engaging in the development of edible coatings from native Australian pigface leaves, students will gain hands-on experience in advanced extraction techniques, formulation development, and food preservation methods. The research environment, equipped with our research laboratories, will foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. Students will also have the chance to enhance their communication and teamwork skills. This comprehensive experience will prepare them for future careers in food science, technology, and environmental sustainability, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to address real-world challenges.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The expected outcomes of this project include the development of a sustainable, biodegradable edible coating derived from native Australian pigface leaves, which will enhance the shelf life and quality of various food products. This innovative solution aims to reduce reliance on plastic packaging, thereby decreasing plastic waste and its environmental impact. Additionally, the project will contribute to the scientific understanding of pigface's bioactive properties and promote the utilization of underutilized native plant resources. The findings could lead to new commercial opportunities in the food industry, fostering environmental sustainability and supporting the local economy.
Reference Material Links:	[1] Springfield, E.P., Amabeoku, G., Weitz, F., Mabusela, W. ... More info on Faculty Taste of Research website (https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/student-life/undergraduate-research-opportunities/advertised-taste-research-areas)
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Analytical evaluation of gaps in the experimental reports of photocatalysis research - A data mining
Name of Supervisor:	Rose Amal
Email of Supervisor:	r.amal@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Yousof Haghshenas
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Energy Systems, Renewable and Non-Renewable
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	More info on Faculty Taste of Research website (https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/student-life/undergraduate-research-opportunities/advertised-taste-research-areas)
Research Environment:	More info on Faculty Taste of Research website (https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/student-life/undergraduate-research-opportunities/advertised-taste-research-areas)
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	More info on Faculty Taste of Research website (https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/student-life/undergraduate-research-opportunities/advertised-taste-research-areas)
Reference Material Links:	More info on Faculty Taste of Research website (https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/student-life/undergraduate-research-opportunities/advertised-taste-research-areas)
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Beyond surface understanding: Developing advanced characterisation for clean energy technologies
Name of Supervisor:	Emma Lovell
Email of Supervisor:	e.lovell@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Stuart Prescott
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Energy Systems, Renewable and Non-Renewable
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	There is an urgent and growing need to transition society to a more sustainable, clean energy sector. One of the key requirements for this transition is the conversion of renewable energy to chemical energy, for storage, transportation, and use. Power-to-X, offers a solution to this challenge, being the conversion of renewable electrons to a range of chemicals, “X”. Electrocatalysts, which drive chemical conversions through electrons, can be utilised to produce “X”, which can produce hydrogen, convert carbon dioxide to fuels and synthesise green ammonia among others. As such, the development of novel catalysts has been a focus of considerable research in recent decades. There are many properties which dictate electrocatalytic performance, with the active surface area being shown to be a key factor in controlling activity. Typically, surface area is characterised through nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms, and electrochemical surface area measurements. However, these measurements are limited in their ability to provide an understanding of the material in their active form. As such, this project aims to develop a novel technique to understand the surface area of electrocatalysts using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), resulting in the development of structure-function relationships which can be applied across a broad range of electrocatalytic applications.
Research Environment:	This is an interdisciplinary project which will be carried out in the Complex Fluids Group and PartCat research groups at UNSW. It will involve materials synthesis, evaluation and characterisation, including through Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) located in SEB at UNSW.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	This project is anticipated to develop new tools to understand electrocatalysts. From this understanding, more active catalysts can be developed, along with a novel technique for characterising active surface area across a range of disciplines.
Reference Material Links:	tbc
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Catalyst Development for CO? Electroreduction to E?Fuels: Decarbonizing the Hard-to-Abate Transporta
Name of Supervisor:	Dr Xiaoxuan Luo
Email of Supervisor:	xiaoxuan.luo@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Dr Rahman Daiyan
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Energy Systems, Renewable and Non-Renewable
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Carbon dioxide (CO?) emissions from the transportation sector contribute roughly 14–15% of global greenhouse gas emissions. To reduce these emissions and meet the 2050 Net Zero Target, developing e?fuels derived from waste CO? holds great promise. By using the CO? electrochemical reduction (CO?RR), waste CO? can be transformed into a range of chemical fuels, including carbon monoxide, methanol, ethanol, and methane.[1] This enables the decarbonization of hard-to-abate segments of the transportation sector, such as aviation and heavy-duty vehicles. This project will focus on the synthesis and electrochemical testing of novel carbon or copper-based catalysts for CO2RR. Ant the findings are expected to build a durable and scalable electrolyser for CO2 conversion.
Research Environment:	This is an opportunity for the student who is interested in renewable energy to gain hands-on experience in the research lab equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. The experience in this project will enable the students to work in emerging renewable energy fields such as CO2 conversion and utilization or further study in this area.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The student is expected to gain experience in synthesizing and measuring the catalysis. The project will also provide an opportunity for the student to collaborate with other research students, gaining valuable interdisciplinary experience. The knowledge and data generated will contribute as input to industry stakeholders and will result in a publication in a scientific journal.
Reference Material Links:	Xue, Yuanyuan, et al. "Catalyst design for electrochemical reduction of CO2 to multicarbon products." Small methods 5.10 (2021): 2100736.
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Cobalt-based spinel electrocatalysts for acidic oxygen evolution reaction
Name of Supervisor:	Dr. Shujie Zhou
Email of Supervisor:	shujie.zhou@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Rose Alam
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Water and Wastewater Engineering
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in acidic media is critical for sustainable energy conversion technologies, such as proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis. However, developing efficient, stable, and cost-effective electrocatalysts remains a significant challenge due to the harsh acidic operating conditions and the reliance on scarce, expensive noble metals like Ir and Ru. This project focuses on the rational design and development of cobalt-based spinel electrocatalysts to achieve high activity and durability for the acidic OER. Cobalt-based spinel oxides (i.e. Co3O4 and its derivatives), with their tunable electronic structures and intrinsic stability, offer a promising alternative to noble-metal-based catalysts. By engineering the cation distribution, defect chemistry, and electronic states, we aim to optimize the catalytic performance and enhance resistance to dissolution under acidic conditions. A systematic investigation will be conducted to understand the structure-activity relationship by employing advanced characterization techniques, including in situ spectroscopy and electron microscopy. The outcomes of this research will contribute to the development of robust, earth-abundant electrocatalysts for PEM water electrolysis, advancing cost-effective hydrogen production and sustainable energy storage solutions.
Research Environment:	"The student will have the opportunity to work in Particles and Catalysis Research Group (PartCat) and the ARC Global Hydrogen Economy Training Centre (GlobH2E) with well-equipped laboratories and experimental facilities for photoelectrocatalysis research under the guidance of Scientia Professor Rose Amal. The student will work in a multidisciplinary research environment with the opportunity to learn various functional skills (i.e., professional development, outreach work, and mentoring) to facilitate future career in academic or industry. "
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	"The student will have the opportunity to work in Particles and Catalysis Research Group (PartCat) and the ARC Global Hydrogen Economy Training Centre (GlobH2E) with well-equipped laboratories and experimental facilities for photoelectrocatalysis research under the guidance of Scientia Professor Rose Amal. The student will work in a multidisciplinary research environment with the opportunity to learn various functional skills (i.e., professional development, outreach work, and mentoring) to facilitate future career in academic or industry. "
Reference Material Links:	https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/aenm.202402786
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Development of an Electronic Nose for Rapid Food Flavour Detection
Name of Supervisor:	Dr. Yong Wang
Email of Supervisor:	yong.wang2@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Prof. Cordelia Selomulya
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Advanced Manufacturing and Processing Technologies
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	The detection and classification of food flavours are critical in the food industry for quality control, product development, and food authentication. Traditional analytical methods such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) provide high precision but are often expensive, time-consuming, and require specialised training. Recent advancements in miniaturised electronic nose (e-nose) technology offer a potential alternative for rapid, cost-effective, and portable flavour detection. Inspired by recent developments in high-speed e-nose systems, this project aims to develop an application-specific e-nose for food flavour analysis, optimised for rapid detection using advanced machine learning algorithms. Project Aim This project seeks to develop and optimise an electronic nose (e-nose) system for detecting and classifying food flavours. Unlike conventional e-nose platforms, this system will utilise an existing miniaturised hardware setup (please see attached paper for reference, https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adp1764) but focus on improving signal processing and machine learning algorithms to enhance detection speed and accuracy. The e-nose will be trained using a selection of characteristic flavour compounds commonly found in food.
Research Environment:	This project offers a unique opportunity to develop a miniaturised electronic nose (e-nose) for rapid food flavour detection. Students will gain hands-on experience in sensor integration, machine learning, and data analysis in a multidisciplinary research environment. Collaboration with experts in food chemistry and AI-driven sensing will enhance technical skills, and publishing the results is also possible.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	Expected Outcomes A working prototype of a food flavour e-nose with optimised algorithms for rapid detection. A dataset of e-nose sensor responses correlated with GC-MS data for validation. Insights into the applicability of machine learning for flavour detection in food quality control. Significance This project will contribute to the development of fast, low-cost flavour detection technologies, providing valuable applications in food safety, quality control, and sensory analysis. By refining the data processing and machine learning components, this study aims to push the boundaries of electronic olfaction for food applications.
Reference Material Links:	More info on Faculty Taste of Research website (https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/student-life/undergraduate-research-opportunities/advertised-taste-research-areas)
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Electrochemical conversion of waste NOx to ammonia
Name of Supervisor:	Dr Joshua Leverett
Email of Supervisor:	j.leverett@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Dr Rahman Daiyan
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Energy Systems, Renewable and Non-Renewable
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Nitrogen oxides are a pollutant produced through combustion of fuels, and cause damage to the climate and natural environment.[1] NOx emissions can be converted to valuable chemicals through electrochemical pathways,[2,3] for example, to ammonia, a chemical used primarily in fertiliser and explosives production, which is being targeted as a hydrogen carrier and clean fuel in sectors such as maritime shipping.[4] This project focuses on developing electrocatalyst materials for the conversion of NOx species to ammonia, and testing these materials in continuous throughput electrolyser systems. The performance data will then be used to undertake technoeconomic feasibility studies, to compare the levelised cost of NOx abatement to current technologies, evaluating the future potential of the technology.
Research Environment:	The student will have the opportunity to work in the Particles and Catalysis Research Group (PartCat) under the guidance of Dr Rahman Daiyan and Dr Josh Leverett. The student will have the access to well-equipped laboratories with experimental facilities and computational tools. The student will work in a multidisciplinary research environment and learn various functional skills to facilitate future career in academic or industry.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The student is expected to gain experience in nanomaterials synthesis and characterisation as well as electrochemical activity measurements. The project will also allow the student to work on technoeconomic assessments. The generated knowledge and data will result in a scientific journal publication. Continuing of the research as an 4th year honour thesis project is possible.
Reference Material Links:	[1] US Environmental Protection Agency, Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), How and Why They Are Controlled, 1999. [2] K. Chen, G. Zhang, X. Li, X. Zhao, K. Chu, Nano Res 2023, 16, 5857–5863. [3] R. Hao, L. Tian, C. Wang, L. Wang, Y. Liu, G. Wang, W. Li, G. A. Ozin, Chem Catalysis 2022, 2, 622–638. [4] International Energy Association, Net Zero Roadmap: A Global Pathway to Keep the 1.5 °C Goal in Reach, 2023.
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Governing Antimicrobial and Anticancer Activities of Membrane-Active Agents via Macromolecular Archi
Name of Supervisor:	Edgar Wong
Email of Supervisor:	edgar.wong@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Martina Stenzel
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	MEMS, Micro & Nano Technologies
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Governing Antimicrobial and Anticancer Activities of Membrane-Active Agents via Macromolecular Architecture
Research Environment:	State-of-the-art chemistry wet labs and analytical instruments, and possibly microbiology and cell biology labs too depending on the progress.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	Students will learn hands-on drug discovery skills (compound synthesis, purification and characterization) for targeted antimicrobial and anticancer applications.
Reference Material Links:	"https://www.edgarwonglab.com/ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/marc.202400350 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acs.biomac.4c01137 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00087 https://www.nature.com/articles/nmicrobiol2016162"
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Photoreforming of Glycerol for the Coproduction of Green Hydrogen and High-Value Chemicals
Name of Supervisor:	Rose Amal
Email of Supervisor:	r.amal@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Denny Gunawan
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	denny.gunawan@unsw.edu.au
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Energy Systems, Renewable and Non-Renewable
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Photoreforming uses solar energy to activate photocatalysts for green hydrogen production while simultaneously facilitating organic oxidation. Compared to overall water splitting, photoreforming provides a more energy-efficient pathway to convert solar energy into hydrogen, significantly enhancing the hydrogen production rate [1]. Glycerol, a major byproduct of biodiesel manufacturing, is an attractive organic substrate for photoreforming [2]. The large quantity and low cost (US$0.11/kg) of glycerol from biodiesel production raise concerns about its disposal and environmental impact. Photoreforming offers a solution by upgrading glycerol to simultaneously generate hydrogen and valuable chemicals like dihydroxyacetone (US$150/kg). This approach can reduce costs for green hydrogen production while addressing environmental challenges [3]. This research aims to design zinc indium sulphide photocatalysts loaded with various metal cocatalysts, optimising hydrogen evolution activity and directing glycerol oxidation towards high-value products.
Research Environment:	The student will have the opportunity to work in the Particles and Catalysis Research Group (PartCat) under the guidance of Scientia Professor Rose Amal. The student will have the access to well-equipped laboratories with experimental facilities and computational tools for photocatalysis research. The student will work in a multidisciplinary research environment and learn various functional skills to facilitate future career in academic or industry.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The student is expected to gain experience in nanomaterials synthesis and characterisation as well as photocatalytic activity measurements. The project will also allow the student to work with other research students to gain valuable interdisciplinary experience. The generated knowledge and data will result in a scientific journal publication. Continuing of the research as an 4th year honour thesis project is possible.
Reference Material Links:	"Toe, C. Y., Tsounis, C., Zhang, J., Masood, H., Gunawan, D., Scott, J., Amal, R. (2021). Advancing Photoreforming of Organics: Highlights on Photocatalyst and System Designs for Selective Oxidation Reactions. Energy Environ. Sci. 14, 1140-1175. Wen, L., Zhang, X., Abdi, F. F. (2024). Photoelectrochemical Glycerol Oxidation as a Sustainable and Valuable Technology. Mater. Today Energy 44, 101648. Gunawan, D., Zhang, J., Li, Q., Toe, C. Y., Scott, J., Antonietti, M., Guo, J., Amal, R. (2024). Materials Advances in Photocatalytic Solar Hydrogen Production: Integrating Systems and Economics for a Sustainable Future. Adv. Mater. 2404618."
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Synthesis of novel polymeric flocculants for cyanobacterial inactivation and flocculation for effect
Name of Supervisor:	Dr Naras Rao
Email of Supervisor:	n.hanumanthrao@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Prof Cyrille Boyer, Prof Rita Henderson
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Water and Wastewater Engineering
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Global climate change has intensified harmful cyanobacterial blooms in surface waters, posing risks to ecosystems and water treatment processes. Cyanobacteria release toxins that harm humans, animals, and aquatic life [1]. Water utilities combat blooms using coagulation-flocculation processes to aggregate and remove cyanobacterial cells via sedimentation, filtration, or dissolved air flotation (DAF). However, coagulants and flocculants, particularly cationic ones, can destabilize cyanobacterial membranes, causing cell rupture and the release of toxins into the water [2]. This not only reduces treatment efficiency but also contaminates treated water, increasing health risks. Additionally, cyanobacterial sludge stored in lagoons may release more toxins as cells degrade over time, complicating sludge management. We aim to design novel polymeric flocculants that can inactivate but not destabilise cell membrane [3]. Additionally, these polymers will also assist in flocculating the cells for easy removal from the water. This study focuses on using Microcystis aeruginosa as a model cyanobacteria, while assessing the potential for toxin release during storage.
Research Environment:	This is an opportunity for an interested candidate to work in collaboration with Australian Centre of Nanomedicine and EnviroLabs (part of UNESCO Membrane Centre). There is access to modern chemical synthesis labs and water treatment labs. The environment is multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural with a lot of student support. The skills the student will learn are equally applicable in the industry and in academia and will pave a way for the student to choose a career path in either of these sectors.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The student will have access to the most advanced polymer synthesis techniques, cutting edge characterisation methods and develop and understanding of processes used in the water industry. The outcomes from this project will result in a scientifc publication. There may be an opportunity to present this work to the water industry. Continuing this research for an honours thesis is most welcome and possible.
Reference Material Links:	[1] Mucci, Maíra, et al. "Chitosan as coagulant on cyanobacteria in lake restoration management may cause rapid cell lysis." Water Research 118 (2017): 121-130. [2] Tammeorg, Olga, et al. "Sustainable lake restoration: From challenges to solutions." Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Water 11.2 (2024): e1689. [3] Aquib, Md, et al. "Shape matters: Effect of amphiphilic polymer topology on antibacterial activity and hemocompatibility." European Polymer Journal 205 (2024): 112698.
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Techno-Economic Assessment of Sunlight-to-X Conversion Processes
Name of Supervisor:	Denny Gunawan
Email of Supervisor:	denny.gunawan@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Dr Shujie Zhou, Prof Rose Amal
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Energy Systems, Renewable and Non-Renewable
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Sunlight-to-X conversion, which harnesses abundant solar energy to produce fuels and chemicals (X), has recently emerged as a promising solution to address energy intermittency and decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors. By generating renewable feedstocks such as green hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol, these processes can support the development of alternative fuels, reducing dependence on finite fossil resources. Various technologies—including photovoltaic-electrocatalysis (PV-EC), photoelectrocatalysis (PEC), and photocatalysis (PC)—enable the conversion of solar energy into fuels and chemicals, each with distinct advantages and limitations [1,2]. Despite their potential, limited techno-economic modelling has been conducted to comparatively evaluate the feasibility of different sunlight-to-X pathways [3]. This research aims to assess the techno-economic viability of standalone PV-EC, PEC, and PC processes for producing renewable feedstocks such as hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol. The findings are expected to help identify key challenges and viable pathways for the commercialisation of these technologies.
Research Environment:	The student will have the opportunity to work in the Particles and Catalysis Research Group (PartCat) under the guidance of Scientia Professor Rose Amal. The student will have the access to computational tools for techno-economic studies. The student will work in a multidisciplinary research environment and learn various functional skills to facilitate a future career in academia or industry.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The student is expected to gain experience in process design and economic feasibility analysis. The project will also provide an opportunity for the student to collaborate with other research students, gaining valuable interdisciplinary experience. The knowledge and data generated will contribute as input to industry stakeholders and will result in a publication in a scientific journal.
Reference Material Links:	[1] Gunawan, D. et al. (2024). Materials Advances in Photocatalytic Solar Hydrogen Production: Integrating Systems and Economics for a Sustainable Future. Adv. Mater. 36, 42, 2404618. [2] Wang, Q. et al. (2021). Strategies to improve light utilization in solar fuel synthesis. Nat. Energy 7, 13-24. [3] Pinaud, B. A. et al. (2013). Technical and Economic Feasibility of Centralized Facilities for Solar Hydrogen Production via Photocatalysis and Photoelectrochemistry. Energy Environ. Sci. 6, 1983-2002.
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	The electrochemical production of hydrogen peroxide
Name of Supervisor:	Dr. Ding Zhang
Email of Supervisor:	ding.zhang@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Rose Alam
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Resources Engineering
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Hydrogen peroxide is widely used across industries, including paper bleaching, water treatment, food disinfection, mining, and semiconductor etching. However, the conventional anthraquinone-based production method is both energy-intensive and generates significant waste. In contrast, electrochemical hydrogen peroxide production uses only water, air, and electricity, enabling efficient, on-site, and on-demand generation.
Research Environment:	The student will have the opportunity to work in the Particles and Catalysis Research Group (PartCat) under the guidance of Scientia Professor Rose Amal and Dr Ding Zhang.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The student is expected to acquire skills in synthesising electrocatalysts and operating electrolysis systems for hydrogen peroxide production.
Reference Material Links:	"https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S136970212300024X https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-57116-x"
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Projects offered by other Engineering Schools that may be of interest are:

Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering