Pyrolysis is a promising technology to convert mixed plastic waste into oil products, but the plastic pyrolysis oil currently has very limited applications due to its poor quality. This project will develop a novel pyrolysis process to convert mixed waste plastics into high-quality oil.
Aim
This project aims to enhance the oil quality produced from mixed plastic pyrolysis, thereby significantly accelerating the commercialisation of plastic pyrolysis technology for the production of high-quality liquid fuels.
Objectives
This project will understand the fundamental mechanisms during the pyrolysis of various plastics, providing new knowledge on the formation mechanisms of key reaction intermediates and condensable volatiles during plastic pyrolysis. The obtained new knowledge will be applied to design a novel pyrolysis system to enhance the oil quality from mixed plastic pyrolysis.
Significance
The project not only significantly decarbonises Australia’s waste sector, but also offers a sustainable solution for plastic waste management in Australia. This project aligns well with Australia’s target of achieving 80% recovery from waste streams by 2030 and facilitates the transition to a circular economy.
Ideal Candidate
- Full-time PhD (Chemical Engineering) only, enrolled via WA School of Mines (WASM) in the Bentley campus
- Show the capacity to carry out independent research and have adequate training
- Have a Master degree or bachelor degree with first class honours, or close to obtaining the degrees (e.g. in the last semester/final stage of the degree)
- Prior research experience and publication records strongly preferred
- Successful recipients must also not be in receipt of any other scholarship
Scholarship
This scholarship is funded by ARC Discovery Project. This scholarship will support one student to carry out fundamental research related to pyrolysis mechanisms of various plastics. This scholarship includes a living stipend of $38440 p.a. pro rata indexed, based on full-time studies, for up to a maximum of 3.5 years.
Applications close: 31st March 2026. This project is open to domestic applicants only.
Enquiries
For enquires please contact Dr Yun Yu at yun.yu@curtin.edu.au
To apply please submit an Expression of Interest to Dr Yun Yu.