Description of the thesis topic

Develop new or optimise available synthetic approaches for the preparation of zeolite nanoparticles with variable pore openings.
Functionalisation of zeolite nanoparticles by direct synthesis or post-synthesis approaches towards improved VOC detection and selectivity.
In situ IR characterisation of adsorption and desorption of single VOCs and mixtures in zeolite and MOF thin films deposited on sensors.
In situ XRD characterisation of adsorption and desorption of single VOCs and mixtures in zeolite and MOF powders.
Brief description of the work and expected results:
The best performing nanoscale zeolites will be identified for selective VOC adsorption. The nanoscale zeolites must meet the requirements for VOC detection under realistic operating conditions. The efficiency of the nanozeolites will depend on (i) capacity; (ii) kinetics; (iii) selectivity; and (iv) stability/regeneration, as well as on the green method of their preparation.

Work Context

The work will take place at the LCS - Laboratoire Catalyse & Spectrochimie (https://www.lcs.ensicaen.fr; https://clear.cnrs.fr,) and the GREYC Laboratoire de recherche en sciences du numérique https://www.greyc.fr/ located in Caen (Normandy).
The LCS has built its reputation on the preparation of porous materials and catalysis.
This project will take place in the framework of the Centre for Zeolites and Nanoporous Materials, European Project MSCA (HE) of the CNRS led by Dr. Svetlana Mintova (Director of Research, CNRS, LCS UMR 6506, Caen) and Dr. Denoual (Greyc Laboratory).

Constraints and risks

Double diploma in Univ. Caen & Tech. Univ. Dublin