EG5909 Renewable Energy Individual Project Specifications 2016-17

MSc Renewable Energy – Individual Project Specifications
M.Sc. Renewable Energy Engineering

EG5909 Individual Project Specifications
School of Engineering
March 18, 2017

Contents
Selecting your preferred campus-based MSc projects 3
The MSc project allocation algorithm 4
Specifying your own project 4
Other industry-based projects 5
Individual Projects in Renewable Energy Engineering 6

1.3 Developing energy-efficient windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.2 Maximum Power Point Tracking Techniques for wind energy conversion systems . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.3 Performance Analysis of Voltage Source Converter HVDC under Different Operation Conditions . . 9
7.1 Blue Energy – A Conceptual Case-Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
7.3 Solar-powered fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
15.1 Analysis of the possible inhibition by garlic waste in anaerobic digestion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
15.3 Optimisation of anaerobic digestion at Kelda Water Services plant, Nigg, Aberdeen . . . . . . . . . . 11
19.2 Multi-Scale Flow, Energy and Exergy Analysis of Geothermal Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
21.1 DC fault isolation in offshore DC Grids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
21.3 Wind Energy Harvesting and Integration to Grid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
24.1 Development and design of a flue gas pre-scrubber stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
27.1 Application of Fibre Bragg Gratings Sensors in Renewable Energy Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
27.3 Solar Lighting Through Optical Fibres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
28.6 Umbilical cable thermal analysis simulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
31.1 Process simulation of a biomass pyrolysis plant for the production of liquids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
32.1 Analysis of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems under Uncertainties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
32.2 Design Modification of 5MW Wind Turbine Blade for Enhanced Structural Performance . . . . . . . . 20
34.2 Materials and processes for biogas purification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
40.1 Evaluation of Low Carbon Transport Innovation - Energetica Corridor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
40.2 How green are green transport fuels? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
41.1 Assessment of flow structure around circular cylinders of different sizes embedded into a boundary
layer a laboratory study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
41.2 Design of Hydro-Power Scheme – a feasibility study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
41.3 Effects of a single tidal turbine embedded into a boundary layer on flow structure – a laboratory study 25
41.4 Effects of an array of tidal turbine embedded into a boundary layer on flow structure – a laboratory
study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
41.5 Effects of surface roughness of a circular cylinder embedded into a boundary layer on flow structure
– a laboratory study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
41.6 Effects of the shape of the cylinder embedded into a boundary layer on flow structure – a laboratory
study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
44.1 Optimal scheduling of inspections and monitoring for condition assessment of industrial and infra-
structural assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
49.1 Design of a PCB for networked power sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
54.2 Fracture mechanics for subcritical crack growth in rocks subjected to thermoporomechanical stress
changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
59.1 Density, electrical conductivity, dielectric constant and viscosity of brines at reservoir conditions . . . 32
60.2 Sparse Sampling of Signals: a Study towards Efficient Wind Measurements for Off-shore Wind Farms 33
62.1 Biomass Utilisation using Innovative Catalytic Solutions (I) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
62.2 Biomass Utilisation using Innovative Catalytic Solutions (II) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
List of projects with analytical modelling 36
List of projects involving a design-based study 37
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List of projects with fieldwork 38
List of projects with an industry contribution/input 39
List of projects with laboratory experiments 40
List of projects with numerical modelling 41
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Selecting your preferred campus-based MSc projects

To select your preferred campus-based MSc projects, please follow these instructions:
• Review the Renewable Energy individual project specifications listed in this booklet and select (up to) 6
choices in order of preference. You cannot select campus-based projects from a project specification
booklet belonging to an MSc programme other than your own.
• Projects are listed without the name of the supervisor who has proposed them, so you are required to pick
the projects you would like to work on (rather than particular supervisors).
• Each project has a unique code of the form XX.Y, where XX is a number representing a supervisor and Y is
the Yth project that supervisor has proposed.
• You may not select more than one project proposed by each supervisor. For example if your first choice
project is 12.3, then your remaining projects must be specified by a supervisor other than 12. If you do give
your second choice project as 12.2, then this choice will be ignored, because you will have selected two
projects from supervisor 12.
• Once you have selected and ordered your preferred projects, your choices should be entered in the MyAber-
deen “Project Selection Assignment”, which is available within the Renewable Energy course homepage.
• When you log into the “Project Selection Assignment” you will see a set of questions similar to the ones
shown below:
You should enter the code for your first choice project as the answer to question 1, the code for your second
choice project as the answer to question 2 and so on. Please remember to include the decimal point.
• At the end of the “Project Selection Assignment”, you will be asked to select preferred topic areas for your
project. These will only be used if your choices are no longer available when it comes to assigning your
individual project.
• All selections should be entered before midday on Friday 31 March 2017. It is not possible to change your
selection after this date.
• Students who fail to complete the project selection assignment by midday on Friday 31 March 2017 will be
allocated their project after all the other students have been allocated projects. This will reduce the chances
of you getting one of your preferred projects.
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• Students are required to select their preferred projects even if they have set-up an industry-based project or
have proposed their own campus-based project, in case these alternative projects are unable to go ahead.
• If you have any questions about any of the projects or the allocation procedure, then you should contact the
Renewable Energy individual project coordinator: Dr Masood Hajian (m.hajian@abdn.ac.uk).
The MSc project allocation algorithm

The campus-based individual projects will be allocated algorithmically. This will be done using the following proce-
dure:
1. All students on MSc programmes that involve a full-time project over the summer will be ranked using the
grade point average of their first-half session taught courses.
2. If two (or more), students have the same grade point average for the first-half session courses, then their
ranking (relative to each other), will be determined by a random number generator.
3. The algorithm will then proceed in the following manner:

• The highest remaining project preference of the highest ranked student (across all the MSc program-
mes), who has yet to be unassigned a project will be checked against the available projects.
• If the project is available, then it will be allocated to that student;
• If the project is unavailable, then the algorithm will remove that particular project preference and move
on to the next highest ranked student;
• After attempting to assign a project to the lowest ranked student, the algorithm will then return to the
highest ranked remaining student and will check the availability of that student’s next highest project
preference.
4. If the algorithm fails to match a student with any of their preferred projects, then the course coordinators will
manually assign a project based their stated preferences and favoured topic areas selected in the “Project
Selection Assignment”.
The project selection algorithm is based on the work by Abraham et al. (2003). This algorithm has been used
to allocate undergraduate projects in the School for the last two years. After its most recent implementation, the
percentage of undergraduate project students matched with each of their project preferences is shown below:
Preference 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th Manual assignment

Percentage 53% 9% 9% 5% 3% 18%
References
D. J. Abraham, R. W. Irving, and D. F. Manlove (2003), In Algorithms and Computation, volume 2906 of Lecture
Notes in Computer Science (Editors T. Ibaraki, N. Katoh, and H. Ono). Chapter The student project allocation
problem, pages 474–484. Springer, Berlin Heidelberg.
Specifying your own project

In addition to selecting from the projects listed below, it is also possible to define and specify your own individual
project. There are two possibilities for individual projects that you specify yourself:
1. a campus-based project with a named staff member;
2. an project with industry involvement from a named company.
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If you are unable name either a company or a staff member who is prepared to support and supervise your project,
then it will not possible for your project to go ahead. Further details about the requirements of the individual project
are given in the individual project course handbook, which is available on MyAberdeen.
In order to specify your own individual project you should download the individual “Project Specification and
Description” form from within the Renewable Energy individual project section of MyAberdeen. This project spe-
cification form should be completed, signed and returned to the Renewable Energy programme secretary: Lyn
Magee
(l.magee@abdn.ac.uk) in the postgraduate office. If you would like to propose your own campus-based project,
then this form should be submitted before midday on Friday 31 March 2017. If you would like to propose your
own project with industry involvement, then this form should be submitted before midday on Monday 24 April
2017. Student proposed individual projects received after these date will only proceed at the discretion of the
project coordinator.
Please note that:

• If you only wish to select individual projects from the list of campus-based projects, then you do not have to
complete and return this form;
• A campus-based project with a nominated staff member will only go ahead if that staff member’s supervision
quota still has spaces available when the algorithm reaches your ranking;
• You should additionally select projects from the list of campus-based projects, in case it is not possible for
the project you have specified to go ahead;
• If you have any questions about the suitability of a possible industry-based project, then you should contact
the Renewable Energy individual project coordinator: Dr Masood Hajian (m.hajian@abdn.ac.uk) in order to
discuss your proposed project;
• The individual project coordinator may ask you to modify your proposed individual project, in order to make
it satisfy the requirements of the MSc. If it is not possible to make the necessary changes, then a student-
proposed project will not be able to ahead and a campus-based project will be assigned instead.
• If you propose a project that project coordinator deems suitable for the Renewable Energy individual project,
then this will become your first preference project. In this case, the first five project preferences you state in
the MyAberdeen “Project Selection Assignment” will all be relegated by one space, while your sixth and final
project preference will be ignored.
Other industry-based projects

The Renewable Energy programme and the wider University will work to secure industry-based projects in addi-
tion to those outlined in this booklet. Depending on how these projects are sourced they may be advertised via
MyAberdeen or offered directly to suitable students. The allocation of these industry-based projects will depend
on the requirements of the companies involved. However, if you would like to apply for any of these projects, then
you should follow the instructions given either on MyAberdeen or by the course coordinator.
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Individual Projects in Renewable Energy Engineering

1.3 Developing energy-efficient windows
Supervisor number: 1
Project number: 3
Methodology/approach: Analytical modelling, Numerical modelling, Design-
based study
Maximum number of students: 3
Project Description:
Windows and doors are required in residential and commercial buildings for well-known reasons. However, they
are also the major source of energy inefficiency either due to poor insulation or poor isolation. In these masters
projects students will choose at least one major aspect that affects the design of windows (and doors)
1. Developing energy-efficient windows: using better filling materials for multi-pane windows The filling gas in
the space between two (or more) panes of the window should be: having low thermal conductivity, Inert,
stable, non-toxic, transparent, non-condensable, and economical. Finding and filling these materials will be
the subject of the research. The student will conduct literature review and model thermal performance of
different materials and propose a criterion to choose a better option. See the references at the end of this
section for more details.
2. Developing energy-efficient windows: using vacuum glazing One of the interesting areas here is maintaining
a vacuum seal between two (or more) panes of glass instead of filling an insulating materials between multiple
panes of the windows (see project 1). The student will study the advantages and various approaches are
currently used to maintain vacuum, each with certain advantages and drawbacks. Challenges in developing
metal-glass bonding sealants or other alternatives to seal will be investigated based on literature review,
modelling and simulation. See the references at the end of this section for more details.
3. Developing energy-efficient windows: the design of pillars The design of the window requires the study of
multiple glass panes and managing spaces between two panes to fill with a suitable insulation material (see
para 1 and 2). In this project, the student will conduct literature review and conduct heat transfer calculations
to study different design configuration and materials of construction for the pillars of the windows. See the
references at the end of this section for more details.
4. Developing energy-efficient dynamic windows While multi-pane windows (projects 1, 2, 3 described above)
are most often used in modern buildings, the multi-functional dynamic windows are a ‘hot’ research topic.
Reducing the cost of dynamic windows is a major challenge. The student will study available approaches
to dynamic windows and focus on the electrochromic glazing. Student will compare alternatives in terms
of advantages and limitations of various options and conduct heat transfer calculations. The student is
expected to provide new ideas for the cost reduction and efficiency enhancement in dynamic windows. See
the references at the end of this section for more details.
Available tools and techniques and further studies: In collaboration with colleagues from UoA Engineering
School specializing in materials and those from Windows & Envelope Materials Group at the Lawrence
Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) US will provide occasional support in these projects. The students will
conduct comprehensive literature review on the topic of their choice. They will also use available tools and
techniques for modelling and simulation of different properties using several customized computer programs
and software developed by LBNL researchers and available for further research.
Further readings: https://buildings.lbl.gov/publications (several publications) http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/energy
https://windows.lbl.gov/software/default.htm (Window software is available for free) https://windows.lbl.gov/software/comfen
https://windows.lbl.gov/software/window/7/TechnicalDocs.html
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2.2 Maximum Power Point Tracking Techniques for wind energy conversion systems
Project number: 2
Methodology/approach: Design-based study
Different techniques for maximum power point tracking of wind energy conversion systems have been discussed
in literature. These methods vary in complexity, sensors required, convergence speed, cost, range of effective-
ness, implementation hardware, popularity, and on other respects. They range from the almost obvious (but not
necessarily ineffective) to the most advanced (not necessarily most effective). In fact, some methods have been
developed that it has become difficult to adequately determine which method, newly proposed or existing, is most
appropriate for a given wind energy conversion system. Given the large number of methods for maximum power
point tracking, a survey of the methods would be very beneficial to researchers and practitioners in wind energy
based systems. The project should cover a wide variety of methods with a brief discussion and categorisation of
each. Avoid discussing slight modifications of existing methods as distinct methods. Also the project must include
a discussion on the different methods based on their implementation, the sensors required, their ability to detect
the global maximum point, their costs, and applications they suit. The reader of the project work should be able to
configure which the best method for such wind energy based application.
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2.3 Performance Analysis of Voltage Source Converter HVDC under Different Operation
Conditions
Project number: 3
Methodology/approach: Analytical modelling, Design-based study
With the conventional means of energy generation being seen as unsustainable and having an impact on global
warming. There is thus the need to be able to feed the generated energy into the grid with need for better efficiency
and less losses over long distance and with renewable energy fluctuating in terms of generation making it difficult
to pass it into the grid directly and cost effectively. VSC-HVDC has been seen as the solution to solve the current
problems and improve the stability of the grid as well long distance distribution on and offshore. The project studies
2-level VSC-HVDC operation during normal and abnormal conditions. The project objectives are as follows:
1. Survey existing HVDC systems especially in the UK.
2. Study the main features, performance, and operation of VSC HVDC especially different converter topologies
including multi level converters.
3. Develop a simulation model of two terminals VSC HVDC system to simulate the system under different
operation scenarios.
4. Analyse the two terminal two level VSC-HVDC response under fault conditions.
7.1 Blue Energy – A Conceptual Case-Study
Project number: 1
Blue Energy or Osmotic Power is the energy generated due to the salinity gradient between seawater and river
water. This is a relatively less-discussed source of renewable energy that Scotland might specifically benefit from.
This thesis will start by describing in detail the underlying chemistry that generates Blue Energy. Various blue
energy generation schemes will be critically analyzed and compared. Aspects limiting a more popular adoption of
this form of energy will be discussed in detail. Using realistic data, a conceptual blue energy plant mock-up will be
presented with a full operational analysis and ROI study.
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7.3 Solar-powered fan

Project number: 3
In many African countries, the poor infrastructure leads to large periods of power cuts where no mains power is
available to the public. On the other hand, these countries also experience oppressive heat during the night and
an unfettered amount of direct sunlight during the daytime. This project aims at designing a table-fan that will run
on a solar-power charged battery. The solar-panel needs to incorporate a solar-tracking module if necessary. The
harvested solar energy should be stored in a battery capable of powering a table-fan for at least six hours. A full
circuit diagram, list of components and efficiency analysis should be presented.
15.1 Analysis of the possible inhibition by garlic waste in anaerobic digestion
Project number: 1
A food company based in England is in the process of setting up an anaerobic digester for their food waste. Among
their feed for the digester, garlic waste causes concern because of the presence of sulphur compounds which may
inhibit microbial activity in the digester. This project requires a desk study covering the following topics: literature
review of inhibition in anaerobic digesters, with main focus on sulphur species, mass balances for different fractions
of garlic waste in the feed, calculation of the concentration of sulphur in the digester, analysis of the effect of pH
on the distribution and toxicity of sulphur species. The project will be carried out at University of Aberdeen, with
regular online meetings with the industrial partner.
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15.3 Optimisation of anaerobic digestion at Kelda Water Services plant, Nigg, Aberdeen
Project number: 3
Methodology/approach: Industry contribution/input
This project will be mainly based at Kelda Water Services plant in Nigg, Aberdeen, Plant Coast Road, AB12 3LT.
The plant is located a few hundred meters from the nearest bus stop. The plant processes most of the municipal
wastewaters from the Aberdeen area and has two anaerobic digesters which treat the sludge produced in most of
Aberdeenshire. The anaerobic digesters convert the sludge into methane, which is then converted into renewable
energy in a CHP plant. The aim of this project is to optimise the performance of the anaerobic digestion plant by
using appropriate mass and energy balances. Successful completion of the project would entail: maintaining and
enhance biogas production or reduce overall power and chemical usage whilst maintaining or increasing sludge
throughput through the digesters. There is flexibility on the project aims and extensive support from the site team.
The Kelda Water Service team to support the student would include the operations manager, process engineer,
process team leaders. Support will also be provided by the academic supervisor, with whom the student will have
periodic meetings.
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19.2 Multi-Scale Flow, Energy and Exergy Analysis of Geothermal Systems
Project number: 2
Methodology/approach: Numerical modelling
1. Overview Geothermal energy systems can be broadly divided into two semi-independent systems: extraction
of thermal energy from subsurface environment system and transformation of heat into power. The former
involves injection of cold water/brine into variable depths with partial or complete vaporisation of water/brine
and further extraction in production wells.
Depending on the heat source (i.e., temperature gradient) thermal energy can be directly transformed into
mechanical energy (in steam turbines) or used in the vaporisation of organic Rankine fluids (low grade heat).
Therefore, simulation of geothermal systems is based on multi-fluid flow dynamics and heat transfer, on
quantitative information (petrology) about geothermal reservoir properties, and on the thermodynamics and
thermophysical properties of reservoir fluids (brine in particular).
2. Objectives a) Study the different geothermal energy conversion systems (dry-rock, flash-steam, binary and
EGS); b) Assess the mass, energy and exergy balances in EGS and organic Rankine cycle fluids; c) Design
of coupled algorithms for thermo-fluid balance of the whole system; d) Investigate the relationship between
enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) and enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and the associated technological
challenges (e.g., HPHT fields) ; e) Formulate strategies to assess the sensitivity of the system (i.e., how the
generated power would oscillate with increasing/decreasing of extracted water/brine flow rate, temperature
and density).
After initial review of the relevant topics on geothermal and oil recovery technologies (Weeks 1-2), the student
MUST choose one/two topic(s) and undertake an in-depth analysis and simulation (using either programming
language, i.e., Matlab, Python, C or Fortran, or an appropriate simulation tool) on this/these stage(s).
3. References:
- S.K. Sanyal (2003) ‘One Discipline, Two Arenas – Reservoir Engineering in Geothermal and Petroleum
Industries’, Proceedings of the 28th Workshop on Geothermal Reservoir Engineering, SGP-TR-173;
- R. DiPippo (2012) ‘Geothermal Power Plants’; Butterworth Heinemann;
- E. Barbier (2002) ‘Geothermal Energy Technology and Current Status: An Overview’, Renewable & Sustai-
nable Energy Reviews 6:3-65;
- G. DeBruijn et al. (2010) ‘High-Pressure, High-Temperature Technologies’, Oil Field Review, 46-60;
- H.N. Pollack, S.J. Hurter, J.R. Johnson (1993) ‘Heat Flow from the Earth’s Interior: Analysis of the Global
Data Set’, Reviews of Geophysics 31:267-280;
- G.S. Bodvarsson, P.A. Witherspoon (1989) ‘Geothermal Reservoir Engineering Part 1’, Geotherm. Science
and Technology 2:1-68;
- H.K. Gupta (1980) ‘Geothermal Resources: An Energy Alternative’, In: Developments in Economic Geology
12, Chapters 3-5;
- K. Pruess (2002) ‘Mathematical Modelling of Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer in Geothermal Systems – An
Introduction in Five Lectures’, United Nations University;
- L. Georgsson (2010) ‘Geophysical Methods used in Geothermal Exploration’, Short Course V on Explora-
tion for Geothermal Resources, Kenya;
- X. Wang (2012) ‘The Hot Water Oil Expulsion Technique for Geothermal Resources’, Geomaterials 2:42-48.
- Z. Chen (2006) ‘Computational Methods for Multiphase Flows in Porous Media’, SIAM, Chapters: 1-3,
11-13.
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21.1 DC fault isolation in offshore DC Grids

Project number: 1
Offshore renewable energy, including offshore wind and marine (wave and tidal), is a potential sustainable supply
to the future energy demand. To integrate offshore renewable energy, subsea DC grids are necessary and highly
in demand. However, protection of such grids against any low impedance DC fault is a challenging task and is
dependent on developing reliable DC circuit breaker (DCCB). Different types of DCCBs have been studied to date
including Mechanical DCCBs, fast Semiconductor based DCCBs, Hybrid, and Superconductor cable embedded
DCCBs. The mechanical DCCBs are capable of interrupting very high DC currents within several tens of millise-
conds, but they are too slow to fulfil the requirement of a reliable DC grid. Semiconductor based and hybrid DC
breakers can easily overcome the limitations in operation speed but generate large transfer losses (in particular for
pure solid state DCCB), and have not been commercialised yet. The last solution employs fault current limiters ba-
sed on superconductor cables and slow mechanical circuit breakers to form a Superconducting Cable embedded
high power DC Circuit Breaker (SCCB). This project studies the different types of DC circuit breakers and inves-
tigates their performance in DC fault isolation in a multi-terminal DC grid. The challenges against each breaker
in secure, fast and discriminative fault isolation in a large DC grid are identified. Suitable models for breakers are
developed in Simulink to support theoretical study by simulation results.
21.3 Wind Energy Harvesting and Integration to Grid
Project number: 3
Electrical energy generation using renewable resources benefits from sustainability in feedstock and much lower
environmental issues compared to convention fossil based resources. On the down side, it suffers from less mature
technology leading to more expensive produced power and intermittent availability of the renewable resources too.
The former implies more complex systems for energy integration to the grid and the latter implies the requirement
for linked storage systems, combination of different renewable resources, or renewable resource with a conventio-
nal energy source. This project studies wind energy harvesting and integration of the generated electrical power
into the AC grid. Both onshore and offshore wind energy systems are to be considered and suitable generators
used so far with wind turbines will be explored. Power electronic converters employed for wind energy transmis-
sion and integration to national grid including AC/DC, DC/AC, and DC/DC converters will also be investigated.
Matlab/Simulink models will be developed to study the performance of such systems and support theoretical study
by simulation results.
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24.1 Development and design of a flue gas pre-scrubber stage
Project number: 1
Methodology/approach: Analytical modelling, Numerical modelling, Laboratory
experiments, Design-based study
Coal combustion, for example in a coal-fired power plant, produces heat that is used to generate electricity and
exhausts flue gas that is eventually discharged to atmosphere. The flue gas typically contains a mixture of gaseous
CO2 and other pollutants such as NOx , SOx , Particulate Matter (PM) and trace quantities of heavy metals such as
Hg. A research team at the University of Aberdeen is building a prototype Carbon Capture Machine to convert the
CO2 into useful solids that can be used in a variety of industrial applications. The proposed project is to develop
and design a pre-scrubber stage to remove the other pollutants from the flue gas before it is fed to the CCM.
27.1 Application of Fibre Bragg Gratings Sensors in Renewable Energy Systems
Project number: 1
Fibre Bragg gratings (FBGs) are utilised for systems like optical fibre communication, fibre lasers, optical pulse
compression, optical sensors, etc. Transmission and reflection characteristics of FBG get influenced by many
external physical facts and chemicals. To sense these affecting physical facts and chemicals, FBGs are widely
used as optical sensors. In this project the student is required learn the basics of FBG, its properties, how to
fabricate and all its applications related to renewable energy systems. This project involves the following:
• Basics of fibre Bragg gratings (FBGs)
• Working principle of FBG sensors

• Various types of sensors used in renewable energy systems
• Use of FBG sensors for renewable energy systems
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27.3 Solar Lighting Through Optical Fibres
Project number: 3
Solar energy is abundant. Most of the time energy from Sun is derived as electrical energy through Photo-Voltaic
Cells. Thus produced DC electricity is converted to AC and supplied through grid for domestic and industrial
consumption. Some of the use of the electrical energy is lighting and heating. Solar energy already has the light
and heat. Conversion of solar energy to electrical energy and then use it for lighting and heating will not be very
efficient. There are different ways to use the solar energy directly for lighting and heating. One such is solar lighting
through optical fibres. This project involves the following:
• Basics of optical fibres and technology
• Transmission of sunlight through optical fibres (mode of operation)

• Hybrid lighting with LEDs
• Cost factors
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28.6 Umbilical cable thermal analysis simulation

Project number: 6
Umbilical cables carry significant amount of electrical power and one of the qualification design checks involves
the prediction of the max operating temperature of their cross section. This is particularly important for cables
operating in hot regions exposed to solar radiation and sections of the cable that is not cooled by seawater or is
heavily insulated by the presence of the thermoplastic bend stiffener cone. Such examples are the balcony hang off
arrangement of spread moored FPSOs in west Africa where the Umbilical is hung outside the water and surrounded
by the insulating bend stiffener cone or sections of the cable buried in a subsea trench adjacent to a production
pipeline operating at high temperatures and insufficiently cooling potential within the trench. Temperature can be
an important factor for material failure of several thermoplastic components within the cable such as hoses, tube
coatings and fiber optic cables and thus the exact prediction of the temperature gradient across the cross section
is important to ensure components stay within their design specifications. The project will model the conduction of
heat from the electrical cables outwards within the cross section. A choice of hang off or seabed trench location will
be decided and the particular conditions will be taken into account, i.e. solar radiation and conduction within the
seabed and/or neighbouring pipelines. No natural convection effects due to air circulating between BSR/Umbilical
gaps will be modelled at present but could be future extension to the model based on progress. The study is
intended to use COMSOL Multiphysics software which is a powerful coupled physics package and a great addition
to the student’s skills.
17
31.1 Process simulation of a biomass pyrolysis plant for the production of liquids
Project number: 1
Biomass for fuels and chemicals production is believed to play a crucial role in meeting Europe’s “202020” targets.
Rising energy prices, due to dwindling fossil resources, further force industry to diversify their energy input from a
purely economic point of view. Biomass can, indeed, offer a renewable and sustainable source of raw materials
that can either lead to the production of biofuels or biochemicals and, in fact, among the various sustainable energy
options (solar, wind, geothermal) only biomass is a direct source of carbon-based fuels and chemicals. From the
main biomass conversion technologies (combustion, gasification, pyrolysis) only pyrolysis converts biomass to
high energy density liquids (bio-oils) at high yields and, hence, is the most suitable to fulfil the high future de-
mands for biofuels and biochemicals. Successful development of such biomass conversion technologies requires
the development of appropriate simulation tools that can greatly facilitate the investigation of process conditions,
alternative process layouts and deployment scenarios, e.g. refinery co-feed strategies. In the current project, an
appropriate kinetic model, describing the pyrolysis of major biomass building blocks (cellulose, hemicellulose and
lignin), will be adopted. This kinetic model will be implemented in a commercial process simulator in order to con-
duct an elaborate plant wide process simulation. Various process aspects of biomass pyrolysis will be evaluated,
such as heat integration, process layouts, etc.
18
32.1 Analysis of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems under Uncertainties
Project number: 1
Methodology/approach: Analytical modelling, Numerical modelling
Size optimisation of standalone hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) is a multi-objective optimisation problem
with two conflicting objectives of cost and reliability. Uncertainties in the renewable resources and the demand load
affect both reliability and the levelised cost of energy produced by a HRES.
In design of systems subject to uncertainties both deterministic and nondeterministic design approaches are
very popular. In a deterministic design approach, applicable to systems with low level of uncertainties, the designer
considers the presence of uncertainties and incorporates them indirectly into the design by applying safety factors,
identifying the worst-case-scenarios and conducting the design based on these scenarios, or a combination of the
two. Standalone HRES, however, are subjected to high level of uncertainties and hence applying the classical
deterministic optimisation methods for design of standalone HRES leads to overdesigned solutions with unreliable
performance. On the other hand, nondeterministic optimisation methods rely on time-consuming analysis methods
such as Monte Carlo simulation, in which hundreds of thousands of evaluations are required to find the optimum
solution. The aim of this project is to find a suitable variance reduction technique to improve the efficiency of Monte
Carlo simulation for standalone HRES.
More information on the topic can be found in: Maheri, A. (2014). ‘A critical evaluation of deterministic met-
hods in size optimisation of reliable and cost effective standalone hybrid renewable energy systems’. Reliability
Engineering & System Safety, vol 130, pp. 159-174, and Maheri, A. (2014). ‘Multi-objective design optimisation of
standalone hybrid wind-PV-diesel systems under uncertainties’. Renewable Energy, vol 66, pp. 650-661.
Keywords: hybrid renewable energy systems, optimisation, nondeterministic analysis, Monte Carlo simulation,
MATLAB
19
32.2 Design Modification of 5MW Wind Turbine Blade for Enhanced Structural Perfor-
mance
Project number: 2
Wind turbine blades are designed in two phases. In aerodynamic design phase, blade aerodynamic topology
is designed with the objective of achieving the highest efficiency in extracting wind power. In structural design
phase, the blade internal structure and material is designed to withstand steady, cyclic and stochastic aerodynamic,
gravitational and inertial loads. Design criteria in structural design phase of a blades include weight, fatigue life,
maximum tip deflection, aeroelastic stability (flutter and divergence) and structural stability (buckling). Improving
the structural performance of a blade for one of the abovementioned design criterion is normally accompanied with
an increase in the weight of the blade, and possible reduction in the performance of the blade with regards other
design criteria. Adopting NREL 5MW wind turbine as the case for study, this project aims at investigating means
of improving the structural performance of a blade with minimal effect on its weight and other design criteria.
Keywords: wind turbine, blade design, composite materials, ANSYS
20
34.2 Materials and processes for biogas purification
Project number: 2
Methodology/approach: Analytical modelling
Project Background:
The sustainable production of energy is presently under extensive research as the principal aim is to produce low
carbon energy. Developing cost-effective materials aiming at separating CO2 from different gas mixtures is a real,
and necessary challenge for the energy industry. CO2 is the greenhouse effect gas present in post-combustion
flue gas, which growing concentration in the atmosphere needs to be stopped in order to avoid further global
environmental problems such as climate change. Moreover, CO2 is the major impurity in biogas (CO2 -CH4 ) and
bio-hydrogen (CO2 -H2 ) generated from the dark fermentation. By removing the CO2 as impurity in these mixtures,
there will be a potential use of methane and hydrogen as renewable sources of energy, with zero or even negative
emissions.
Objectives:
The MSc candidate will study:
• Create an up-to-date list of most suitable materials for the separation of the above mentioned gas mixtures.
• Develop a critical and comparative analysis of the suitability of these materials, based on their separation
performance (e.g. uptake, selectivity, heat of adsorption, requirements for the material development, costs,
gas-material interactions...).
• Current technologies, employed or under study, for the purification of these mixtures (e.g. separation of
CH4 -CO2 ).
• Write a final report summarizing the knowledge gathered and the results obtained with a critical and com-
prehensible approach.
21
40.1 Evaluation of Low Carbon Transport Innovation - Energetica Corridor
Project number: 1
Methodology/approach: Fieldwork
The Energetica Corridor in North East Scotland is promoted as a high growth, sustainable corridor, focussed on
the energy sector, quality of life, and connectivity benefits, linking Aberdeen, Dyce, Ellon, and Peterhead. There
is also a key freight linkage between Peterhead Harbour and Aberdeen Harbour. The study will design an evalu-
ation methodology for deployment of high quality, reliable, transport solutions based on clean fuels / low emission
vehicles. There is potential for development and implementation of both impact and evaluation methodologies and
suitable data collection methodologies should be devised.
40.2 How green are green transport fuels?
Project number: 2
The popular consensus is that urban passenger rail is more environmentally friendly than urban bus. This position
is largely associated with the key energy source for each mode, respectively electricity and diesel, where electric
vehicle use will typically result in local air quality improvements away from the electricity generation source. Howe-
ver, there is a general lack of awareness of the resource base of much of electricity generation in some countries.
This project takes a close look at the greenhouse emissions that are associated with urban rail and bus to establish
the environmental advantage, or otherwise, of green transport fuels.
22
41.1 Assessment of flow structure around circular cylinders of different sizes embed-
ded into a boundary layer a laboratory study
Project number: 1
Methodology/approach: Laboratory experiments
Project Background:
Due to the momentum sink at the object surface, a wake downstream a subsea structure, e.g. cylinder, is de-
veloped. To select a suitable layout for an array of cylinders (e.g., to maximise/minimise the overall drag), it is
important to understand the nature of the wake structure and to quantify the wake extent. Previous studies have
shown that the velocity reduction in the wake of a single cylinder depends on the cylinder shape, the cylinder
surface roughness and the Reynolds number. The studies have also shown that the mixing between the wake
and surrounding flow affects the rate of recovery of the wake velocity. In marine currents, due to the presence
of bounding surfaces (e.g., subsea structures, sea bed), the velocity around a submerged object will be altered.
Furthermore, the velocity of the surrounding flow is likely to be affected by the wakes of adjacent objects for a case
of a group of objects, e.g., cylinders.
Project Objectives:
The main goal of the present study is to investigate the influence of a circular cylinder size on the wake turbulence
structure for a range of flow conditions (Reynolds numbers, upcoming turbulence). The project goal will be achieved
through pursuing the following objectives:
• To conduct a laboratory study of boundary layer flows with submerged circular cylinder of different sizes.
• To assess effects of the cylinder size and flow conditions on the wake turbulence structure (i.e., spatial
distributions of velocity statistical moments around the cylinder) and on the drag coefficient.
• To attempt to develop quantitative empirical models/relationships for predicting effects of the cylinder size
and flow parameters on the wake turbulence structure.
23
41.2 Design of Hydro-Power Scheme – a feasibility study
Project number: 2
Project Background:
For many centuries water power has been used as an energy source. The earliest (around 600BC) water power
devices were mainly used for irrigation purposes, while the modern devices are mainly used to generate electricity.
Now days the hydro energy is one of the key renewable energy sources. It has been supplying the input for hydro
power stations for more than 100 years. In present-days hydroelectricity delivers around 17% of the world’s annual
electricity supply (Boyle, 2012). With continuous demand for electricity it is likely that the interest in new hydro
power plants may be further growing. Indeed, available data show that from 1980 to 2010 annual production of
the world’s total electricity increased by around 75% (Boyle, 2012). Furthermore, potential environmental benefits
(e.g., no CO2 is released, no particulates or chemical compounds, no radioactivity, no significant health hazards,
flood control, etc.) of hydroelectricity compared to other types of power plants may also be in favour of further
growth of hydro power plants’ construction.
Project Objectives:
The main goal of the present study is to carry out a preliminary overall design of Hydro-Power Scheme for a given
level of exploitation of the available water resource. The project goal will be achieved through pursuing the following
objectives:
• To review existing practices related to renewable hydro energy.
• To review existing hydro-power schemes identifying the key engineering elements.

• To review methods used in the design of a hydro-power scheme.
• To design the main engineering elements of a hydro-power scheme: reservoir design; design of the low
pressure tunnel from the dam to the high pressure pipeline(s); design of the surge tower; design of the high
pressure pipeline(s) to the power station; turbine and turbine house specifications.
24
41.3 Effects of a single tidal turbine embedded into a boundary layer on flow structure
– a laboratory study
Project number: 3
Methodology/approach: Laboratory experiments, Design-based study
Project Background:
Due to the momentum sink at the object surface, a wake downstream a subsea structure, e.g. a tidal turbine, is
developed. To select a suitable layout for an array of turbines (e.g., to maximise/minimise the overall drag), it is
shown that the velocity reduction in the wake of a single tidal turbine depends on the turbine characteristics (e.g.
size, structure, number of rotor blades) and the Reynolds number. The studies have also shown that the mixing
between the wake and surrounding flow affects the rate of recovery of the wake velocity. In marine currents, due
to the presence of bounding surfaces (e.g., various subsea structures, sea bed), the velocity around a single tidal
turbine will be altered. Furthermore, the velocity of the surrounding flow is likely to be affected by the wakes of
adjacent objects for a case of a group of objects, e.g., tidal turbines.
Project Objectives:
The main goal of the present study is to investigate the influence of a single tidal turbine on the wake turbulence
structure for a range of flow conditions (Reynolds numbers, upcoming turbulence). The project goal will be achieved
through pursuing the following objectives:
• To design a model tidal turbine that will be used to conduct a laboratory study of boundary layer flows with a
single tidal turbine.
• To assess effects of the turbine and flow conditions on the wake turbulence structure (i.e., spatial distributions
of velocity statistical moments around the turbine) and on the drag coefficient.
• To attempt to develop quantitative empirical models/relationships for predicting effects of the turbine and flow
parameters on the wake turbulence structure.
25
41.4 Effects of an array of tidal turbine embedded into a boundary layer on flow struc-
ture – a laboratory study
Project number: 4
Project Background:
Due to the momentum sink at the object surface, a wake downstream a subsea structure, e.g. an array of tidal
turbines, is developed. To select a suitable layout for an array of tidal turbines (e.g., to maximise/minimise the
overall drag), it is important to understand the nature of the wake structure and to quantify the wake extent.
Previous studies have shown that the velocity reduction in the wake of a single tidal turbine or array of tidal
turbines depends on the layout of the turbines, turbine characteristics (e.g. size, structure, number of rotor blades)
and the Reynolds number. The studies have also shown that the mixing between the wake and surrounding flow
affects the rate of recovery of the wake velocity. In marine currents, due to the presence of bounding surfaces
(e.g., adjacent tidal turbines, various subsea structures, sea bed), the velocity around an array of tidal turbines
will be altered. Furthermore, the velocity of the surrounding flow is likely to be affected by the wakes of adjacent
turbines for a case of a group of turbines.
Project Objectives:
The main goal of the present study is to investigate the influence of an array of tidal turbines on the wake turbulence
structure for a range of turbine layouts and flow conditions (Reynolds numbers, upcoming turbulence). The project
goal will be achieved through pursuing the following objectives:
• To design a model tidal turbine to conduct a laboratory study of boundary layer flows with an array of tidal
turbines.
• To assess effects of an array of tidal turbines and flow conditions on the wake turbulence structure (i.e.,
spatial distributions of velocity statistical moments around the turbine) and on the drag coefficient.
• To attempt to develop quantitative empirical models/relationships for predicting effects of the turbine layout
26
41.5 Effects of surface roughness of a circular cylinder embedded into a boundary layer
on flow structure – a laboratory study
Project number: 5
Project Background:
Project Objectives:
The main goal of the present study is to investigate the influence of a circular cylinder with a range of surface
roughness on the wake turbulence structure for a range of flow conditions (Reynolds numbers, upcoming turbu-
lence). The project goal will be achieved through pursuing the following objectives:
• To conduct a laboratory study of boundary layer flows with submerged circular cylinder with a range of surface
roughness.
• To assess effects of the cylinder surface roughness and flow conditions on the wake turbulence structure
(i.e., spatial distributions of velocity statistical moments around the cylinder) and on the drag coefficient.
• To attempt to develop quantitative empirical models/relationships for predicting effects of the cylinder surface
roughness and flow parameters on the wake turbulence structure.
27
41.6 Effects of the shape of the cylinder embedded into a boundary layer on flow struc-
ture – a laboratory study
Project number: 6
Project Background:
Project Objectives:
The main goal of the present study is to investigate the influence of a cylinder shape (circular and square) on the
wake turbulence structure for a range of flow conditions (Reynolds numbers, upcoming turbulence). The project
goal will be achieved through pursuing the following objectives:
• To conduct a laboratory study of boundary layer flows with submerged cylinder (circular and square).
• To assess effects of the cylinder shape and flow conditions on the wake turbulence structure (i.e., spatial
distributions of velocity statistical moments around the cylinder) and on the drag coefficient.
• To attempt to develop quantitative empirical models/relationships for predicting effects of the cylinder shape
28
44.1 Optimal scheduling of inspections and monitoring for condition assessment of

industrial and infrastructural assets
Project number: 1
Methodology/approach: Analytical modelling, Numerical modelling, Design-
based study
Any industry always tries to ensure its assets meet, better still exceed, their expected design life spans while
operating within safe and sustainable levels. However, deterioration, such as fatigue and corrosion, often conspires
against these goals. To extend the useful life of assets, appropriate inspection and monitoring must be conducted
to assess their condition. However, such actions must be cost effective and to that end this project will explore how
to schedule inspections and deploy monitoring systems for condition assessment of industrial and infrastructural
assets. This project will ideally suit a collaborating group of students, each focused on a different class of assets
(e.g. subsea, offshore, energy, bridges) and deterioration process (e.g. fatigue, corrosion). Synergies leading
to the development of a comprehensive, all-hazard inspection and maintenance strategy are expected to emerge
from such collaboration that could be applied across a range of assets. (The project is also suitable for a single
student, in which case the scope and focus will be suitably adjusted.) You will describe your findings in a report
including:
• Background and motivation for the research.

• Review of typical causes, types and forms of structural deterioration sustained by your selected asset class
(e.g. pipelines, wind turbines, bridges, etc.).
• Review of approaches to modelling, inspection, monitoring and assessment of asset condition focusing on
your selected deterioration mechanisms (e.g. fatigue, corrosion, etc.).
• Design of an optimal inspection and monitoring schedule (including conceptual design of a sensing system)
for a case study.
• Critical appraisal of the proposed methods including their advantages and disadvantages.
This project will suit students with strong numeracy skills and background and interest in materials, structures, and
technical safety and reliability, and knack for conceptual and rigorous thinking about complex systems and issues.
Intellectual curiosity, an open mind, creativity, can-do attitude, independence and resourcefulness and persever-
ance in face of challenges are desirable personal traits.
49.1 Design of a PCB for networked power sensors
Project number: 1
Methodology/approach: Laboratory experiments, Design-based study
29
The possibility to interconnect tools and devices to create intelligent networked systems in Internet is dominating IT
R&D. This trend, also known as Internet of Things (IoT), aims to exploit new affordable short-range communication
technologies to control and monitor remotely a wide-range of devices. IoT allows to connect to the Internet any
device, from mobile phones, home appliances, wearable devices, vehicles, tools, communication devices, and
more in general “any” electric device with an ON/OFF switch. An important application of IoT is the control/monitor
of power sources, estimate power consumption and identify wastes.
This project aims to design a microcontroller board able to perform voltage/current measurements in a non-
invasive way and report the measurements to a data store on the Internet. The student should design the electronic
components needed to perform voltage/current measurement and to communicate the measurement to the central
repository through a data bus (e.g. serial line or wireless). The board design aims to be as flexible as possible
to adapt to different type of power sources and cabling, and adopt fail-safe procedure. The design should be as
complete, possibly including its PCB prototype, ready for production.
30
54.2 Fracture mechanics for subcritical crack growth in rocks subjected to thermopo-
romechanical stress changes
Project number: 2
Subcritical crack growth in rocks is characterised by slow propagation of cracks at stresses lower than those com-
puted by linear elastic theory. The crack initiation and propagation also depends on the state of the rock including
imperfections and the environment. Similar to mechanical fatigue, repeated temperature cycles will induce thermal
stresses resulting in modification of localised stress intensity factors, which is exacerbated by the presence of
mineral heterogeneity. An example of thermal degradation of rocks is its weathering in natural and built environ-
ment from seasonal variation in the temperature.The aim of this work is to develop a theoretical model, following
total energy approach, to quantitatively assess the growth of pennyshaped cracks in rocks subjected to cyclic tem-
perature variation. The developed model will be verified using available laboratory and field data. Applications:
Impact of hydrocarbon production, water injection on state of reservoir rocks, Impact of cold water injection in
geothermal wells. The student selecting this project must have a first degree in Mathematics/Applied Mathema-
tics/Physics/Applied Physics/Civil/Mechanical engineering.
31
59.1 Density, electrical conductivity, dielectric constant and viscosity of brines at re-
servoir conditions
Project number: 1
The candidate will gain practical and scientific knowledge on the behaviour of one of the most important reservoir
fluids, salty aqueous solutions. Enhanced oil and gas recovery, carbon capture and storage, supercritical fluid
technology, the formation of gas hydrates, seawater desalination and waste-water treatment involve processes
where salty aqueous solutions play a key role. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) has the potential to contribute
to the development of a low-carbon economy. This technology also depends greatly upon models for dissolution
equilibria since it is solubility trapping of CO2 in deep saline aquifers that accounts for 90 % of the total capacity
storage solubility being the principal trapping mechanism in the medium term (100 to 102 years). A good know-
ledge of key properties upon temperature and pressure on basic brines as NaCl (aq), KCl (aq), KI (aq), CaCl2
(aq), MgCl2 (aq), BrCl2 (aq), NaHCO3 (aq), Na2SO4 (aq) and their mixtures is required. Electrical conductivity
may yield a sensible technique to measure brine’s viscosity The objectives are to:
• Identify main anions present in reservoir brines.
• Carry out a literature review of density, electrical conductivity, dielectric constant and viscosity of brines at
reservoir conditions of principal monovalent and divalent salty aqueous solutions, and their mixtures.
• Understand the physical chemistry of some particular brines
• To correlate whether possible Density, electrical conductivity, dielectric constant and viscosity of brines at
reservoir conditions
• To write a final dissertation summarizing the knowledge gathered and the results obtained with a critical and
comprehensible approach.
32
60.2 Sparse Sampling of Signals: a Study towards Efficient Wind Measurements for
Off-shore Wind Farms
Project number: 2
Project Background:
In order to efficiently design and deploy large wind farms it is vital to log extensively wind vector data. These
record wind intensity and direction over time, at different locations and altitudes in the area of interest. These
measurements are important both during the design stage (to gauge the potential for generation) and during the
deployment stage (to assess the modifications to the wind patterns induced by the installed turbines). However,
performing frequent measurements with high spatial density over a large area is a considerable challenge. This
project studies two technological advances that can be combined to obtain a system capable of addressing this
challenge. On the one side, the project considers remote sensing technologies for wind measurements [1]. On
the other, the project studies signal processing techniques that allow reconstructing a signal from a sparse set of
samples [2][3]. The combination of these two sides is then considered with the aim to design an efficient wind
measurement system.
Project Objectives:
This project reviews established and upcoming techniques to measure the wind vector, with focus on off-shore
deployment. The Project expands on the following steps:
1. Critical review of the challenges that off-shore locations pose to wind vector measuring. Literature review
on wind measuring techniques. These may include established techniques and then focus on approaches
based on remote sensing, as explored in the Windscanner Project [1].
2. Review of Compressing Sensing [2] and Sparse Sampling [3]. Study of a mathematical model for sparse
sampling of the wind intensity field. The study may start in a simple 1D or 2D domain and considering a
scalar signal; the study then progressively includes additional features before addressing the vectorial signal
in a 3D domain. A mathematical description, a Matlab simulation, or a combination of the two, is envisaged
as a tool to study the problem and the proposed solution.
3. Outline the design of a system that uses remote sensing technology based on sparse sampling approach to
measure the wind vector. Discuss the limitations and potential as a tool in the design and deployment stages
of wind farms.
References:
[1] Windscanner Project (EU FP7): Official Webpage: http://www.windscanner.eu/

[2] E.J Candes, M.B. Wakin, “An Introduction To Compressive Sampling, ” IEEE Signal Processing Maga-
zine, vol 25, no 2, pp 21-30, March 2008.
[3] T. Blu, P. Dragotti, M.Vetterli, P. Marziliano, L. Coulot, “Sparse Sampling of Signal Innovations”, IEEE
Signal Processing Magazine, vol 25, no 2, pp 31-40, March 2008.
33
62.1 Biomass Utilisation using Innovative Catalytic Solutions (I)
Project number: 1
The increasing demand for energy and the consequent high consumption of natural resources has resulted in the
environmental degradation and the depletion of fossil energy reserves. Use of biomass resources is imperative for
industrial society because they have been considered renewable and carbon dioxide neutral.
Furfuryl alcohol finds widespread application in the manufacture of resins, rubbers and fibres and as a chemical
building block for drug synthesis and can be produced by (a) selective reduction of furfural, a biomass (corncob
and sugar cane bagasse) derived heterocyclic aldehyde that can serve as a renewable, non-petroleum based raw
material; or (b) selective oxidation of (bioderived) 2-methylfuran [1]. Selectivity to the target product is crucial as
furan ring reduction/opening, hydrogenolysis and decarbonylation can generate a range of by-products that require
energy/cost intensive downstream separation.
This project will exploit the feasibility of process (a) mentioned above, i.e. selective reduction of furfural using
biocatalysis (enzymes). We will look at critical process parameters and engineering the catalytic process by
the integration of reactions. It is expected that the project student will contribute to both experimental work and
scientific paper writing.
Reference:
[1] X. Wang, et al. Harnessing the selective catalytic action of supported gold in hydrogenation applications. In
Heterogeneous Gold Catalysts and Catalysis, RSC Catalysis Series, Royal Society of Chemistry, Cambridge,
(2014) 424–46
(a) http://dx.doi.org/10.1039/9781782621645-00424
34
62.2 Biomass Utilisation using Innovative Catalytic Solutions (II)
Project number: 2
The increasing demand for energy and the consequent high consumption of natural resources has resulted in the
environmental degradation and the depletion of fossil energy reserves. Use of biomass resources is imperative for
industrial society because they have been considered renewable and carbon dioxide neutral.
Furfuryl alcohol finds widespread application in the manufacture of resins, rubbers and fibres and as a chemical
building block for drug synthesis and can be produced by (a) selective reduction of furfural, a biomass (corncob
and sugar cane bagasse) derived heterocyclic aldehyde that can serve as a renewable, non-petroleum based raw
material; or (b) selective oxidation of (bioderived) 2-methylfuran [1]. Selectivity to the target product is crucial as
furan ring reduction/opening, hydrogenolysis and decarbonylation can generate a range of by-products that require
energy/cost intensive downstream separation.
This project will exploit the feasibility of process (b) mentioned above, i.e. selective oxidation of 2-methylfuran
using biocatalysis (enzymes). We will look at critical process parameters and engineering the catalytic process by
the integration of reactions. It is expected that the project student will contribute to both experimental work and
scientific paper writing.
Reference:
[1] X. Wang, et al. Harnessing the selective catalytic action of supported gold in hydrogenation applications. In
Heterogeneous Gold Catalysts and Catalysis, RSC Catalysis Series, Royal Society of Chemistry, Cambridge,
(2014) 424–46
(a) http://dx.doi.org/10.1039/9781782621645-00424
35
List of projects with analytical modelling

2.3 Performance Analysis of Voltage Source Converter HVDC under Different Operation Conditions
32.2 Design Modification of 5MW Wind Turbine Blade for Enhanced Structural Performance
34.2 Materials and processes for biogas purification
44.1 Optimal scheduling of inspections and monitoring for condition assessment of industrial and infrastructural
assets
54.2 Fracture mechanics for subcritical crack growth in rocks subjected to thermoporomechanical stress changes
59.1 Density, electrical conductivity, dielectric constant and viscosity of brines at reservoir conditions
60.2 Sparse Sampling of Signals: a Study towards Efficient Wind Measurements for Off-shore Wind Farms
36
List of projects involving a design-based study

2.2 Maximum Power Point Tracking Techniques for wind energy conversion systems
2.3 Performance Analysis of Voltage Source Converter HVDC under Different Operation Conditions
15.1 Analysis of the possible inhibition by garlic waste in anaerobic digestion
27.1 Application of Fibre Bragg Gratings Sensors in Renewable Energy Systems
27.3 Solar Lighting Through Optical Fibres
31.1 Process simulation of a biomass pyrolysis plant for the production of liquids
41.2 Design of Hydro-Power Scheme – a feasibility study
41.3 Effects of a single tidal turbine embedded into a boundary layer on flow structure – a laboratory study
assets
60.2 Sparse Sampling of Signals: a Study towards Efficient Wind Measurements for Off-shore Wind Farms
37
List of projects with fieldwork

40.1 Evaluation of Low Carbon Transport Innovation - Energetica Corridor
38
List of projects with an industry contribution/input

15.3 Optimisation of anaerobic digestion at Kelda Water Services plant, Nigg, Aberdeen
39
List of projects with laboratory experiments

41.1 Assessment of flow structure around circular cylinders of different sizes embedded into a boundary layer a
laboratory study
41.3 Effects of a single tidal turbine embedded into a boundary layer on flow structure – a laboratory study
41.4 Effects of an array of tidal turbine embedded into a boundary layer on flow structure – a laboratory study
41.5 Effects of surface roughness of a circular cylinder embedded into a boundary layer on flow structure – a
laboratory study
41.6 Effects of the shape of the cylinder embedded into a boundary layer on flow structure – a laboratory study
62.1 Biomass Utilisation using Innovative Catalytic Solutions (I)
62.2 Biomass Utilisation using Innovative Catalytic Solutions (II)
40
List of projects with numerical modelling

19.2 Multi-Scale Flow, Energy and Exergy Analysis of Geothermal Systems
21.1 DC fault isolation in offshore DC Grids
21.3 Wind Energy Harvesting and Integration to Grid
28.6 Umbilical cable thermal analysis simulation
32.2 Design Modification of 5MW Wind Turbine Blade for Enhanced Structural Performance
40.2 How green are green transport fuels?
assets
54.2 Fracture mechanics for subcritical crack growth in rocks subjected to thermoporomechanical stress changes
59.1 Density, electrical conductivity, dielectric constant and viscosity of brines at reservoir conditions
41

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MSc Renewable Energy – Individual Project Specifications

M.Sc. Renewable Energy Engineering

March 18, 2017

The MSc project allocation algorithm 4

Specifying your own project 4

Other industry-based projects 5

Individual Projects in Renewable Energy Engineering 6

List of projects with analytical modelling 36

List of projects involving a design-based study 37

List of projects with fieldwork 38

List of projects with an industry contribution/input 39

List of projects with laboratory experiments 40

List of projects with numerical modelling 41

Selecting your preferred campus-based MSc projects

The MSc project allocation algorithm

3. The algorithm will then proceed in the following manner:

Preference 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th Manual assignment

Specifying your own project

2. an project with industry involvement from a named company.

Please note that:

Other industry-based projects

Individual Projects in Renewable Energy Engineering

7.1 Blue Energy – A Conceptual Case-Study

7.3 Solar-powered fan

15.1 Analysis of the possible inhibition by garlic waste in anaerobic digestion

19.2 Multi-Scale Flow, Energy and Exergy Analysis of Geothermal Systems

21.1 DC fault isolation in offshore DC Grids

21.3 Wind Energy Harvesting and Integration to Grid

24.1 Development and design of a flue gas pre-scrubber stage

27.1 Application of Fibre Bragg Gratings Sensors in Renewable Energy Systems

• Working principle of FBG sensors

27.3 Solar Lighting Through Optical Fibres

• Transmission of sunlight through optical fibres (mode of operation)

28.6 Umbilical cable thermal analysis simulation

32.1 Analysis of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems under Uncertainties

34.2 Materials and processes for biogas purification

40.1 Evaluation of Low Carbon Transport Innovation - Energetica Corridor

40.2 How green are green transport fuels?

41.2 Design of Hydro-Power Scheme – a feasibility study

• To review existing hydro-power schemes identifying the key engineering elements.

44.1 Optimal scheduling of inspections and monitoring for condition assessment of

• Background and motivation for the research.

49.1 Design of a PCB for networked power sensors

[1] Windscanner Project (EU FP7): Official Webpage: http://www.windscanner.eu/

62.1 Biomass Utilisation using Innovative Catalytic Solutions (I)

62.2 Biomass Utilisation using Innovative Catalytic Solutions (II)

List of projects with analytical modelling

List of projects involving a design-based study

List of projects with fieldwork

List of projects with an industry contribution/input

List of projects with laboratory experiments

List of projects with numerical modelling

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