Status
Scientific disciplines
Research direction
Catalysis, Biocatalysis and Separation
Affiliate site
Lyon
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) represent a family of over 4,000 compounds synthesized since the 1950s, used in various industrial sectors for their exceptional properties (non-stick, waterproof, and heat-resistant). However, their extreme chemical stability and toxicity at low concentrations make them "eternal pollutants" that are difficult to eliminate from the environment. PFAs are found at concerning levels in drinking water, often well above safety thresholds. To address this issue, this thesis aims to develop innovative materials capable of effectively capturing these toxic molecules.
To do so, a new method for functionalizing porous solids will be developed to enhance structure–PFAs interactions. Then, the impact of this surface modification and the materials synthesis itself will be evaluated through simplified tests and in real conditions. These results, combined with a complete characterization of our modified solids and supported by theoretical modeling, will enable us to understand the adsorption phenomena involved and to identify the key properties that will boost adsorption capacities of future materials.
Keywords: Porous materials, Functionalisation, Adsorption, PFAs, Water treatment.
- Academic supervisor PhD Alain METHIVIER, IFPEN.
- Doctoral School ED206 CHEMISTRY, Université de Lyon.
- IFPEN supervisor PhD Alexandre SODREAU, ORCID : 0000-0003-2374-9105.
- PhD location IFPEN, Lyon, France.
- Duration and start date 3 years, starting in the fourth quarter of 2025 (3rd November)
- Employer IFPEN
- Academic requirements University Master degree in chemistry, chemistry of materials.
- Language requirements English level B2 (CEFR) and willingness to learn French.
- Other requirements
- Solid knowledge in chemistry, chemistry of materials and/or adsorption
- Experience in characterization techniques
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Join us to contribute to innovative and relevant research to tackle the environmental pollution by PFAs.
To apply, please send your cover letter and CV to the IFPEN supervisor indicated here below.