Cosmin graduated from the University of Notingham in 2023 with an integrated MSc (Hons) in Biochemistry. Before starting his degree, he worked with Johnathan Todd's group to explore osmolyte synthesis in diatoms as part of a Nuffield Research Placement at UEA. During his Masters year, he studied novel ferroelectric materials in Kathrine Inzani's group using Density Functional Theory, a computational method used in solid state chemistry research. His project gave him insights into alternative approaches to practical laboratory research; he aims to use his experience in computational modelling to solve sustainability challenges within the automotive sector.
Cosmin is combining machine learning and multiscale modelling to identify promising nanoporous materials to produce and process low carbon fuels.
Petrol/diesel is not the only fuel we can combust to propel vehicles. Have you considered grey hydrogen? This is a gas that is generated by the carbon-intensive process of 'steam-methane reformation'. The main problem is that when you make grey hydrogen, it's in a mixture of gases that we need to separate. The process can be made low-carbon by carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS) - this is something the government is investing £1 billion up to 2025. There are many porous materials that can separate and store these gases: so many that we would spend all our time testing them to find the few suitable ones. However, we can use computational algorithms to search smartly through huge databases and find the best ones. This will save us time, but how valid is our screening process? In other words, will the computer's selection of the best materials reflect their performance in real life?
© Copyright 2024 AAPS CDT, Centre for Doctoral Training in Advanced Automotive Propulsion Systems at the University of Bath
