CSIRO Industry PhD Scholarship: Advanced Structured Packing Design for Energy Efficient Distillation and Product Separation in HEFA-Derived Low-Carbon Fuels

Funding and duration

four year scholarship package totalling approximately $48,000 per annum tax exempt (2026 rate); four-year scholarship and research training program.

Project overview

Project title

Advanced Structured Packing Design for Energy Efficient Distillation and Product Separation in HEFA-Derived Low-Carbon Fuels

Project description

This Project will develop and validate advanced structured packing for vacuum distillation and related separation steps in HEFA-derived low-carbon fuels. The research will investigate how packing geometry, surface properties and flow behaviour influence mass transfer efficiency, pressure drop and separation performance for thermally sensitive fuel streams. The Project will combine modelling, prototype fabrication and experimental testing to establish structure-performance relationships and generate practical design rules for improved separation systems. The work is industry-linked and application-focused, with input from the industry partner and access to University and CSIRO capability. Expected outcomes include new packing concepts, validated performance data and guidance for scale-up into industrially relevant fuel processing.

Supervisory team

University

Name of university supervisor | Biao Sun

Name of university | Curtin University

Email address | Biao.Sun@curtin.edu.au

Faculty | WASM Faculty of Science and Engineering

CSIRO

Name of CSIRO supervisor | Roya Rudd

Email address | roya.rudd@csiro.au

CSIRO Research Unit | Energy

Industry

Name of industry supervisor | Tejas Bhatelia

Name of organisation | Spiropak Pty Ltd

Email address | tejas.bhatelia@spiropak.com.au

Further details

Primary location of student | Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley WA 6102, Australia

Industry engagement component location | SpiroPak Pty Ltd, 10 Fargo Way, Welshpool WA 6106, Australia

Other locations | CSIRO Syncat Facility, 26 Dick Perry Avenue, Kensington WA 6151, Australia

Ideal student skillset | Essential skillsA highly motivated student with qualifications in chemical engineering, materials science, or a related field. Strong knowledge of fluid dynamics, mass transfer, and separation processes, along with solid research skills in experimental design, data analysis, and process modelling. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Self-motivated, adaptable, and able to work both independently and within multidisciplinary teams. Desirable skillsHands-on laboratory experience, ideally in distillation, pilot-scale systems, or process intensification, is preferred. Skills in CAD, prototyping, and process or equipment modelling are highly desirable. Familiarity with advanced materials, surface characterisation, or vacuum systems will be advantageous.

Application close date | Open until position filled

Apply | Curtin