PhD Studentship : Modeling of Fine Biochar Formation in Fast Pyrolysis Reactors

Project Description Fast pyrolysis of forest biomass is a promising pathway to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions by producing bio‑oil, syngas, and biochar. However, a major barrier to producing high‑quality bio‑oil is the presence of very fine biochar particles generated during the process. These particles are difficult to remove completely and often remain in the final liquid product, where they reduce its purity, stability, and overall quality. This PhD project aims to address this challenge by identifying the mechanisms governing the formation and entrainment of fine biochar particles and by optimizing pyrolysis operating conditions to minimize their generation. The work will rely on an integrated approach combining computational modeling and experimental validation. A CFD‑DEM model will be developed to describe the hydrodynamics, thermal behavior, and particle interactions occurring in a fast pyrolysis reactor. This model will be calibrated and validated using data from a laboratory‑scale pyrolysis unit. Once validated, it will serve as a diagnostic and predictive tool to: • understand the mechanisms driving fine particle formation and transport, • identify the operational factors influencing these phenomena, • support the optimization of pyrolysis conditions to improve bio‑oil purity and stability. The project will also establish the technical foundation for parametric studies exploring broader operating conditions, including particle size distribution, feed rates, and residence time, to determine optimal operating ranges for industrial applications. The insights generated through this research will contribute to improving large‑scale pyrolysis operations, enhancing bio‑oil yield, purity, and stability, and advancing the development of renewable liquid fuels. Doctoral Research Tasks As a PhD candidate, you will develop advanced expertise in both reactor modeling and experimental pyrolysis. Your activities will include: • Characterizing biomass feedstocks and analyzing their thermal behavior. • Developing a CFD‑DEM model describing particle behavior, heat transfer, and reaction environments in fast pyrolysis. • Validating the model using laboratory‑scale experimental data. • Identifying the mechanisms responsible for fine biochar particle formation and entrainment. • Optimizing pyrolysis operating conditions to reduce fine particle generation and improve bio‑oil quality. • Conducting parametric studies to evaluate the influence of particle size, feed rate, and residence time. This interdisciplinary project provides opportunities to work closely with both academic and industrial collaborators, offering exposure to real‑world pyrolysis operations and applied research environments. Required qualifications • Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, with a solid foundation in reaction engineering, chemical kinetics, transport phenomena, and numerical analysis. • Demonstrated research experience in kinetic modeling, thermal decomposition, or pyrolysis (e.g., through academic reports, theses, or scientific publications). • Strong programming skills (Python, MATLAB, or similar) for kinetic model development, parameter estimation, and data analysis. • Demonstrated experience in numerical modeling and simulation using COMSOL Multiphysics and/or ANSYS Fluent. • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment where experimental and simulation activities are closely integrated. • Strong communication skills and proficiency in written and spoken English; knowledge of French (written and spoken) is an asset. Application This is a fully funded PhD position with a required starting date of April/May 2027. Interested applicants are invited to submit the following documents to Professor Maha Bhouri at Maha_Bhouri@uqar.ca: • A detailed CV • Academic transcripts • A cover letter describing your background and research interests • Names and contact information of two references • A valid English (TOEFL, IELTS) or French language test certificate (Bright Language, DALF, TCF, or TEF) email maha_bhouri@uqar.ca