PhD GRANT AT ÉCOLE DOCTORALE SCIENCES EXACTES ET LEURS APPLICATIONS - ED 211 (Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour)
PhD Subject: Selection of natural tracers for monitoring the sub-surface storage of gaseous effluents, including hydrogen
The research topic proposed in this thesis is part of the energy transition and the reduction of the environmental impact of industrial activities.
In line with these objectives, initiatives are ongoing to promote the integration of decarbonized gas energies, such as hydrogen and biomethane, into existing gas infrastructures among others geological storages. This implies the development of new experimental approaches taking into account the specific
mechanisms to which these compounds are subjected.
More precisely, it will contribute to one of the major challenges faced by the gas industry: the detection, identification and reduction of possible diffuse leaks. The work will consist in implementing experimental and analytical techniques to detect, identify and characterize natural geochemical tracers(trace elements, isotopic tracers). The interpretation of these results will take into account the water/gas/rock/bacteria interactions to understand the biological and physico-chemical action mechanisms involved in the migration of gases and thus discriminate the origin of an effluent present in sub-surface storage areas. Depending on the results obtained, a modeling approach could be carried out with the support of TEREGA
The PhD will take place in the UPPA Laboratories in close relation with the joint laboratory SENGA (TEREGA-UPPA).
Required competences:
- The candidate must hold a master or equivalent degree with majors in analytical chemistry, solution chemistry, environmental chemistry, chemical engineering
- Experimental skills / hands on activities
- Data analysis skills
- Sense of initiative, autonomy, organization and thoroughness, good relational qualities.
- Good knowledge in English and good writing skills are a plus.