David Potter

Background

Studied an Mchem at University of Leeds, undertaking a project involving the characterisation of a FAGE instrument, and the investigation of dimethyl ether combustion chain-branching, with chemical activation modelling in homogeneous charge compression ignition engines.

Research Interests

I am primarily interested in using laser flash-photolysis - laser-induced fluorescence techniques to study the low temperature combustion chemistry of potential biofuel ethers, such as dimethyl ether and diethyl ether. The mechanism by which these species chain-branch is important to the optimisation of novel engines that may run on these biofuels.

Why I chose the CDT in Bioenergy

I wanted to continue research in a similar area to my undergraduate degree and gain experience working in industry. The first year mini-projects gave a great indicator of the kind of PhD projects that were on offer.