PhD in Degradation Mechanisms of Cement/Steel-Cement Interfaces with Novel Cementitious Materials in Simulated Carbon Capture/Storage Wellbore Conditions University of Leeds in United Kingdom

Geological Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is a vital technology for reducing global CO₂ emissions and achieving net-zero targets. A major challenge in CCS is ensuring the long-term integrity of injection wells, which are constructed with steel casings and cement sheaths to isolate stored CO₂ from surrounding rock formations. Over time, exposure to high-pressure, high-temperature environments and supercritical CO₂ can degrade both the cement and the steel-cement interface, potentially compromising well integrity and creating leakage pathways.

This PhD project at the University of Leeds, in collaboration with industry partner SLB and the Institute of Functional Surfaces, will investigate the degradation mechanisms affecting cement and steel-cement interfaces in simulated CCS wellbore environments. The research will focus on developing and evaluating novel cementitious materials and additives to enhance chemical resistance and long-term durability under CO₂-rich conditions.

The project involves experimental studies of cement carbonation, corrosion processes, and interface stability under conditions representative of CCS wells. The influence of CO₂ impurities, fluid chemistry, and material composition on degradation rates will be systematically examined. Advanced characterisation techniques will be used to monitor microstructural changes, corrosion behaviour, and phase transformations at the cement/steel interface.

Students will benefit from the expertise of the Institute of Functional Surfaces in corrosion science and materials degradation, as well as the opportunity to collaborate with SLB, including a potential placement at their Research and Development facilities in Aberdeen. This placement offers hands-on experience with industrial wellbore testing systems and exposure to cutting-edge CCS technologies.

The successful candidate will receive a highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award (Industrial Competition) Studentship, covering full tuition fees, a tax-free maintenance grant of £21,805, and an additional top-up of £4,000 per year for 3.5 years. Training and support are provided, and the opportunity is open to all applicants, with selection based on academic merit.

This research will provide fundamental insights into degradation processes in CCS well materials and contribute to the development of more durable cement systems for subsurface energy infrastructure. The outcomes will support safe and reliable CO₂ storage, reduce environmental risks, and help enable the large-scale deployment of CCS technologies.

Applicants should have a strong background in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline, with experience in experimental research or materials characterisation considered advantageous. English language requirements must be met as per University of Leeds guidelines.

For further details and to apply, visit the project page or contact the supervisor for informal enquiries.