About the Project
This project is one of a number that are in competition for funding from the Red-ALERT CDT, hosted by Bangor University for entry in September 2025.
Overview of the Research:
This project aims to develop a Far-Infrared (FIR) detection system for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in Combined Sewage Overflow (CSO) monitoring. Operating at longer wavelengths than traditional IR methods, FIR technology targets specific rotational transitions of molecules that do not overlap to IR vibrational transitions offering superior selectivity, deeper penetration, and reduced interference from water vapor and atmospheric gases. Additionally FIR allows penetration through opaque materials and pipes that are difficult to reach through present approaches.
The project will involve designing an FIR antenna array integrated with a CMOS imaging chip. The antenna array will be constructed using advanced nano-tip based architectures and materials like Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) to maximize FIR absorption and minimize loss. The CMOS imaging chip will be optimized for high quantum efficiency in the FIR range, incorporating advanced photodetector technologies to ensure high sensitivity.
The project roadmap includes these key milestones:
1. Design and Simulation: Using electromagnetic simulation software to model and optimize the FIR antenna array and CMOS chip.
2. Fabrication: Employing advanced microelectronics manufacturing techniques, in collaboration with Cornell University, to construct the antenna array and integrate it with the CMOS chip.
3. Calibration: Calibrating the system using known concentrations of key pollutants (e.g., benzene, toluene, and xylenes) and other volatile biomarkers to establish baseline sensitivity and detection limits.
4. Validation: Validating the system’s performance by comparing its results with conventional Gas Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS/MS), Thermal Desorption-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (TD-GC-MS), and Headspace Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (HS-GC-MS).
5. Deployment: Sensors will be placed on the influent and effluent lines of the wastewater treatment plant to continuously monitor VOC levels. Multiple FIR sensors will support Internet of Things (IoT) integration for autonomous real-time data collection ensuring accurate monitoring and contributing to improved environmental management.
BU’s SCSE will provide training in CMOS array design, high frequency measurements, and flexible electronics for integration in curved pipe structures. Training will also be provided in VOC detection using GC-MS based approaches. The studentship will also gain training from Welsh Water in the fundamentals of wastewater treatment processes.
Project Keywords: CMOS Imaging, Far-Infrared (FIR) Detection, Nano-Antenna Arrays, Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), Water Monitoring.
Industrial Partner:
This project is supported by academics from Cornell University and EPFL, Switzerland, and Drapers Educational Charity.
Candidate Requirements:
Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a First Class or good Upper Second-Class UK Honours degree (or the equivalent) in a relevant subject. A master’s level qualification would also be advantageous.
Given the interdisciplinary nature of the project, the ideal candidate should have: Electronic Engineering Expertise: knowledge in CMOS design and high-frequency electronics. Experience in sensor technologies and signal processing would be advantageous.
Electromagnetic Simulation and RF Design: Hands-on experience with electromagnetic modeling tools (e.g., CST, COMSOL, Keysight ADS) for designing antennas or photonic structures.
Micro/Nano-Fabrication Understanding: Familiarity with fabrication techniques used in microelectronics. Ability to surveying and resource commercial integrated circuits.
Programming and IoT Systems: Skills in data acquisition, automation, and IoT integration for real-time monitoring. Familiarity with Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICS) control techniques and Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA).
Molecular Sensing Knowledge: Basic understanding or motivation to acquire principles of VOC sensing technologies or analytical techniques (e.g., GC-MS, TD-GC-MS).
Interdisciplinary Interest: Motivation to engage in cross-disciplinary research, particularly in environmental sensing, agritech, and biomedical applications.
*Non-UK applicants must meet the programme’s English language requirement prior to a formal offer being made.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion:
We value a diverse research environment and aim to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated and respected. We welcome and encourage applications from under-represented groups.
If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement.
Enquiries and Applications:
Formal applications should be submitted via the Red-ALERT CDT online application form prior to the closing date of this advert.
Funding Notes
Candidates may be considered for a NERC Red-ALERT studentship tenable for 3.5 years. Funding covers tuition fees, a stipend (ÂŁ19,237 p/a in 2024/5) and access to a training support budget.
Register your interest for this project
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