Project title: Photodegradation and adsorption of polystyrene (PS) microplastics using biochar decorated with Fe-doped TiO₂ and Co-doped CeO₂
Project: Double Degree Doctorate Program, ITB – Coventry University
Eligibility: Indonesian nationals
Duration: Full-Time – between three and four years fixed term
Application deadline: 29 May 2026
Interview date: 1 June 2026
Start date: September 2026
For further details contact: Dr. Damar Rastri Adhika and Dr. Thais Tasso Guaraldo
Contact: damar@itb.ac.id
Introduction
The widespread accumulation of microplastics in aquatic environments has emerged as a critical global concern due to their persistence, ecological impacts, and potential risks to human health. Among various types, polystyrene (PS) microplastics are particularly problematic because of their chemical stability, low biodegradability, and extensive use in packaging and consumer products. The development of effective and sustainable remediation strategies for microplastic mitigation is desirable, such as advanced oxidation processes combined with adsorption techniques. Photocatalysis offers a promising pathway for degrading polymeric pollutants into smaller, less harmful molecules through the generation of reactive oxygen species under light irradiation. Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is one of the most widely studied photocatalysts due to its strong oxidative potential, chemical stability, and low cost. Doping TiO₂ with transition metals such as iron (Fe) has been shown to enhance charge separation efficiency and extend light absorption into the visible region, thereby improving photocatalytic performance. Similarly, cerium oxide (CeO₂) is a versatile material known for its oxygen storage capacity and redox properties, which are beneficial for catalytic applications. The incorporation of cobalt (Co) as a dopant can further enhance its catalytic activity by increasing oxygen vacancy concentration and facilitating electron transfer processes. To optimize the system, biochar serves as an ideal supporting matrix due to its high surface area, porous structure, and abundant functional groups. Derived from biomass, biochar not only provides a sustainable and low-cost platform for catalyst dispersion but also contributes to the adsorption of microplastics, thereby increasing the local concentration of pollutants near active catalytic sites.
Project details
This project proposes a dual-functional system (adsorption + photocatalysis) to improve the efficiency of Polystyrene microplastic removal and degradation. This project aims to develop a multifunctional composite material based on biochar decorated with Fe-doped TiO₂ and Co-doped CeO₂ for the simultaneous adsorption and photodegradation of Polystyrene microplastics. By integrating adsorption capacity with enhanced photocatalytic activity, the proposed system seeks to address the limitations of existing treatment methods and provide an effective, scalable solution for microplastic remediation.
Possible research objectives include:
• Fabricate Biochar decorated Fe-doped TiO₂ and Co-doped CeO₂ nanoparticles.
• Characterisation of biochar decorated Fe-doped TiO₂ and Co-doped CeO₂ nanoparticles (morphological and structural).
• Investigate adsorption behaviour and photocatalytic degradation performance of Polystyrene microplastics on biochar-based materials.
• Elucidate degradation mechanisms and chemical reactions involved.
• Optimize system parameters (pH, catalyst loading, pore size, microplastic size and concentration, light intensity and wavelength, treatment time).
• Assess reusability, stability, and environmental safety.
Funding
Tuition fees and bursary from LPDP, PDDI or potentially ITB/CU
Benefits
The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training including technical, personal, and professional skills. All researchers at Coventry University (from PhD to Professor) are part of the Doctoral and Researcher College, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.
Entry requirements
• A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average.
PLUS
• The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within 3.5 years.
• A minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS academic overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component) or TOEFL iBT®/TOEFL iBT® Home Edition (Online) demonstrating achievement of an overall score of 95 or higher with no component below 21.
Academic Requirements
Applicants should have a Master’s degree in a relevant field is desirable, including but not limited to:
• Physics and Applied/Engineering Physics
• Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Environmental Science and Engineering
• Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
Applicants should demonstrate:
• Skills in chemical synthesis and laboratory work experience.
• Materials Characterization Techniques and Interpretation.
• Ability to work with interdisciplinary research
• Strong analytical and writing skills
• Motivation to contribute to academic publications
Skills and experience in one of the following methods is desirable:
• Data analysis tools (e.g., Origin, ImageJ, Profex)
• Academic writing skill