Flexible textile-based self-powered energy harvesting and storage system for smart wearable electronics

Outline

Smart wearable electronics that are fabricated on fabrics or textile substrates are of importance for next-generation portable electronic device systems. Ideal wearable and portable applications not only require the device to be integrated into the various platform but also desire a self-powered feature. At present, most of all self-powered wearable electronics are designed to be connected with energy generation and storage devices separately. In this project, a hybrid smart fibre that exhibits a spontaneous energy generation and storage process within a single fibre device that does not need an external electric circuit/connection will be introduced. This is achieved through the employment of asymmetry coaxial structure in an electrolyte system of the supercapacitor that creates potential difference upon the creation of the triboelectric charges or photoelectrochemical cells. This project can provide great opportunities to establish the competence of students not only in fibre/textile-based self-powered wearable electronics but also in photovoltaic, electrochemistry and triboelectric devices.

What is funded

Self-Funded PhD Students Only

Duration

4 years full-time.

Eligibility

Candidates should hold a good bachelor’s degree (first or upper second-class honours degree) or a MSc degree in Physics or a related subject.

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).

How to Apply

How to Apply:

Applicants should submit an application for postgraduate study via the Cardiff University webpages (https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/programmes/programme/physics-and-astronomy) including:

• an upload of your CV

• a personal statement/covering letter

• two references

• Current academic transcripts

Applicants should select Doctor of Philosophy, with a start date of October 2020

In the research proposal section of your application, please specify the project title and supervisors of this project and copy the project description in the text box provided. In the funding section, please select the ’self -funding’ option.