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Process Intensification

We are reducing the impact of process technology in chemical plants.

Our research

Process Intensification makes dramatic reductions in the size of unit operations within chemical plants.

ICI pioneered the concept in the late 1970s. At that time, the primary goal was to reduce the capital cost of production systems.

The main plant items involved in the process include reactors, heat exchangers, and separators. But they only contribute around 20% of the cost of a given plant. Installation costs make up the balance. These include pipework, structural support, civil engineering, and so on.

process intensification student makes notes during research project in white coat and safety glasses.

Taught programmes

From day one, our Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Programmes give students a path to become a professional engineer addressing major global challenges.

Our Postgraduate Taught (MSc) Courses equip students with the advanced skills and expertise to help shape the world.

Read more about Sustainable Chemical Engineering MSc

female chemical engineering conducting testing with goggles.

Postgraduate Research (PGR)

Below you can find titles and details of potential PhD projects within our group. We also welcome candidates to bring along their own ideas for projects.

To apply in the first instance, you should email the relevant first supervisor. We will also be happy to discuss general enquires.

Most of these are not funded projects. Chances of funding vary with nationality.

  • UK students: Full funding for UK students is available but spaces are limited
  • EU students: Payment of fees is available but spaces are limited
  • Non-EU students should have an idea of a source of funding for your studies, usually your own government

You may be eligible to apply for a variety of studentships:

Potential PhD projects

We regularly update out PhD Projects page with the most recent activities and opportunities.

Collaborations and reach

Industry applications

A major reduction of equipment size is often coupled with integration of equipment function. For example, we can combine:

  • reactors with heat exchangers, or
  • condensers with distillation equipment and re-boilers

This can generate significant cost savings. It eliminates support structure, expensive column foundations, and long pipe runs.

We have developed novel approaches to equipment design and process synthesis. We miniaturise process plants, making them environmentally friendly. Miniaturised plants are flexible in their manufacturing capabilities. They provide rapid response to market demand.

Our work has applications in many industries:

  • from fine chemicals, polymers, and food
  • to bio-medical, medical, and offshore
  • to pharmaceuticals, electronics, transport, and energy 

Our Networks

Process Intensification Network (PIN)

Membership of the Process Intensification Network is open to all interested parties. It is open to individuals as well as organisations, regardless of size. Companies, research laboratories, and academic institutions belong to the network. We welcome all who see benefits from taking part. Our interests lead to further development, use and exploitation of process intensification.

PIN is a bridge between academia and industry. Its principal roles include technology transfer, education and promotion of awareness.

Our current membership is about 350. Around 50% are from industry. The balance is divided between research institutes and Universities. A large proportion of members are from overseas, predominantly from Continental Europe.

We hold annual meetings at various locations around Europe.

Find out about the Process Intensification Network

Heat EXchanger Action Group (HEXAG)

HEXAG is a group of organisations with an interest in heat exchangers. Members are:

  • involved in the manufacture and use of heat exchangers
  • interested in the development of heat exchanger technology

There are some 300 members from a range of organisations.

We provide a regular forum for the interchange of information on all aspects of advances in heat exchanger technology. This encourages collaboration between manufacturers, users and researchers in developing advanced exchangers. It also helps to stimulate the industrial use of the technology.

The group provides industry with information. This enables informed decision making on:

  • supporting development activities
  • the application of advanced exchangers

The group contacts members through regular meetings, the newsletter, and a newsgroup. Meetings usually coincide with the annual PIN meetings, forming a two-day event.

Find out more about HEXAG

Contact us

Group head - Adam Harvey
Email: adam.harvey@newcastle.ac.uk

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