ZEFIRA is proud to sponsor a new PhD project at The University of Manchester focused on the development of next-generation electrified membrane reactors for chemicals production.

The project, titled “Next-generation electrified membrane reactor for chemicals production,” will be supervised by Dr Vincenzo Spallina in the Department of Chemical Engineering. It aims to advance innovative reactor technologies that combine process electrification, selective membrane separation, catalysis, and process modelling to support more sustainable chemical manufacturing.

The research will focus on the production of chemicals starting from green hydrogen and carbon dioxide, with particular attention to intensified modular reactor units and the synthesis of carbon-neutral olefins. These chemicals are essential building blocks for polymers and fuels, making this research highly relevant for the transition toward a carbon-neutral chemical industry.

A key objective of the project is to develop and test an electrified reactor configuration that integrates membranes and catalysts, supported by renewable electricity. The work will also include proof-of-concept testing, reactor modelling, energy analysis, flowsheet simulation, and techno-economic and environmental assessment.

The PhD project is also connected to ongoing Horizon Europe activities in which The University of Manchester and ZEFIRA BV are partners, working together with more than 25 organisations across Europe to demonstrate membrane-based technologies at pre-commercial scale.

By sponsoring this project, ZEFIRA reinforces its commitment to supporting young researchers and accelerating the development of breakthrough technologies for sustainable chemicals production, industrial decarbonisation, and the transition to a carbon-neutral economy.

We look forward to seeing the impact of this exciting research and wish the future PhD candidate and the University of Manchester team every success.