2D materials-reinforced multifunctional coatings for built environments (PhD Engineering) Ref: 5554

Supervisors

Primary Supervisor - Dr Ievgeniia Kovalska - Department of Engineering - University of Exeter

Secondary Supervisor - Dr Raffaele Vinai - Department of Engineering - University of Exeter

Porous construction materials, such as concrete, brick, or wood, are widely utilised in built environments due to their structural strength, durability, and thermal mass. However, their susceptibility to water ingress can lead to issues such as surface degradation, internal cracking, frost damage, and biological colonisation. Prolonged exposure to moisture makes these materials particularly vulnerable to mould growth, which accelerates structural decay, compromises indoor air quality, and poses significant health risks to building occupants. Moisture exposure to outdoor surfaces can also cause aesthetic damage, which gradually reduces the overall performance of the building and leads to significant maintenance and restoration costs. While traditional surface treatments are often applied, many conventional formulations rely on harmful chemicals, such as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which raise environmental and regulatory concerns. As the construction sector increasingly prioritises sustainability, occupant health, and long-term durability, there is an urgent need for innovative, non-toxic protective coatings capable of preserving porous materials in both interior and exterior applications.

The research project aims to explore the integration of 2D materials, such as graphene and post-graphene structures, into PFAS-free formulations to develop multifunctional coatings for porous construction materials that provide hydrophobicity, breathability and anti-mould properties. The project will involve synthesis and functionalisation of 2D materials, development and optimisation of coating formulations & application methods, and comprehensive performance tests, including water contact angle measurements, breathability tests, absorption tests, biological resistance assays, and environmental chamber tests. This comprehensive testing will evaluate the coatings' effectiveness in improving moisture resistance, preventing mould growth, and enhancing the durability of porous materials in both indoor and outdoor environments.

This position is eligible for Home students and it will cover tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend of £21,805 per year for 3.5 years full-time. Students will be based at the Streatham Campus in Exeter.

The conditions for eligibility of home fees status are complex and you will need to seek advice if you have moved to or from the UK (or Republic of Ireland) within the past 3 years or have applied for settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

The studentship will be awarded on the basis of merit.

Entry requirements

Applicants for this studentship must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in an appropriate area of Materials Chemistry, or a closely related natural science discipline, including Materials Science or Nanotechnology. 

If English is not your first language you will need to meet the English language requirements and provide proof of proficiency. Click here for more information.

How to apply

Apply now

To apply, please click the ‘Apply Now’ button above. In the application process you will be asked to upload several documents:

• CV

• Letter of application (outlining your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake the project).

• Transcript(s) giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained (this should be an interim transcript if you are still studying).

• Two references from referees familiar with your academic work. If your referees prefer, they can email the reference direct to PGRApplicants@exeter.ac.uk quoting the studentship reference number 5554.

• If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country you will need to submit evidence of your proficiency in English.

The closing date for applications is midnight on 2nd November 2026. Interviews will be held virtually in the following weeks.

All application documents must be submitted in English. Certified translated copies of academic qualifications must also be provided.

Please quote reference 5554 on your application and in any correspondence about this studentship.

Summary