High-performance magnesium hydroxide polymer composites for low carbon footprint, fire-resistant construction materials

Combustible building cladding represents a significant safety risk in densely populated urban areas and regions prone to bushfires. Conventional fire safety strategies reliant on limiting vertical fire spread through compartmentation have been challenged by the emergence of novel materials with limited understanding of fire risk.1 These emerging composite panels, comprised of metal oxides, hydroxides and carbonates, are receiving focused attention.2 Additionally, deriving the construction materials from low carbon waste sources, aligning the built environment with a circular economy framework, is increasingly becoming a requirement. 

Our Industry Partner, EcoMag Ltd has developed a propriety process for recovering high purity magnesium compounds from a Mg-rich waste brine stream. The PhD project will examine the capacity of these magnesium compounds as the foundation of high-performance building cladding composite materials, integrating both carbon capture and utilisation and agri-waste strategies into the process.

Scholarship

• $37,684 per annum (2024 rate)
• Tuition fees scholarship for International candidates

Eligibility

• Domestic and International candidates
• PhD

How to Apply

Please email a copy of your CV to Jason Scott at jason.scott@unsw.edu.au.