PhD project

Ion Transport Phenomena in Structured Colloidal Networks

Harm Wiegerinck (PhD Candidate), Rob Lammertink (promotor), Jeff Wood (supervisor)

Duration: 2020-2024

Funding: NWO Klein

Introduction
In this research ion transport through ion-selective colloidal particle networks will be studied. Colloidal networks offer a versatile platform to study ion transport as both the colloidal particle material as well as the topology of the colloidal networks can be altered, allowing them to be used as mimics for ion-exchange membranes. In order to obtain knowledge on the ion transport through 3D colloidal particle networks, electrical, concentration and flow  measurements will be performed. This research could eventually lead to new and improved water desalination or osmotic power generation methods at the microscale.   

Keywords
Colloidal networks, ion transport, desalination, osmotic power generation
 
Research goals
Fundamental research into the role of heterogeneous interfaces in enhancing ion transport in electric-driven membrane separations.
Understanding the role of topology and surface heterogeneity in the same systems