Graham Stevenson

Centre for Doctoral Training Doctoral Researcher

Graham Stevenson

Address

School of Chemical Engineering
Imperial University College
London
SW7 2AZ

Email

g.stevenson15@imperial.ac.uk

 

Lead Supervisor

Professor Nigel Brandon

Research Summary                                                                          

Graham Stevenson joined the Centre for Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Research in September 2015 as part of the CDT. Prior to this, he graduated from the University of Strathclyde in July 2015 with a masters degree in Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering.

The aim of his current research is to investigate the properties of lanthanum strontium titanate anodes in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and investigating the ex-solution phenomena that occurs in these materials. As well as this, investigations into the processing capabilities and effects of microstructure on electrochemical performance are a research focus.

Graham is funded through the EPSRC CDT  in Fuel Cells and their fuels: EP/L015749/1.

Qualifications

MSci: Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (accredited by RSC, IChemE), University of Strathclyde, 2015.

Biography

Graham graduated from his MSci degree in 2015. During the degree, he was taught both chemistry and chemical engineering in order to gain an understanding of both. He has completed research projects in the production of APA as part of pharmaceuticals investigations and also studied the all-vanadium redox flow battery as his masters thesis.

Research

Graham’s area of research focuses specifically on the anodes of SOFCs. By capitalising on A-site deficiencies in titanate perovskites, dopant metals can be ex-solved onto the surface of the material as disperse nanoparticles. These nanoparticles are incredibly resistant to environmental conditions and can be catalysts.

As well as this, the material is mechanically and chemically tough and so is desirable for use in a SOFC. Investigations into the properties such as particle size, microstructure, porosity and synthesis conditions and the effects these have on the electrochemical, catalytic and mechanical properties are areas of interest. This is backed with an investigation into the lifetime and effects of environments on these materials, with a focus on the 3D microstructure as a function of operating time and conditions.

Other activities

Graham is currently helping new students integrating into Imperial College London by undertaking warden duties in halls. He has a massive interest in public perception of science and how scientists can ultimately disseminate knowledge to a wider audience. As well as this, he is a keen pianist and saxophonist

Publications