Many chemical processes rely on catalysts to enhance reaction rates and their development from a Material Science and Chemistry standpoint is constantly improving, this PhD (or MSc by Research – MRes) will investigate developing porous catalytic foams using novel methods, with cheap precursors, via sustainable and resource efficient routes. These foams have the advantage of addressing the heat and mass transfer limitations of conventional reactors and materials. The application of these foams is envisioned to be focused around hydrogen production but avoiding the use of rare earth elements.<br>Catalysts are an utterly vital tool in chemical processes and are used extensively in industry, however many commercial catalysts are made cheaply and as such have poor heat and mass transfer properties. The student working on this project will develop new porous catalytic foams, which thus far have been too expensive to use in industry because of their manufacturing process.