My PhD project is investigates the safety issues related to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in the context of human factors. It will look at how safety concerns could be overcome through effective design of the car itself, establishing requirements for structures intended for storage, and best practice for refuelling and the repair of these vehicles. The ultimate goal is to understand the potential impacts of HFCV usage on the future transport system, from a human factor perspective.
The main challenge that we are facing right now is differences between the Engineers, Public and Policymakers understanding and view of the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle. On one side, the technology developers believe most of the concerns have been solved technically already. On the other side, the Public would like to think of how much we will trust these new technologies.
I hope that my research outcomes will help to better understand and accept the concept of hydrogen economy, and help engineers better understand what kind of hydrogen vehicles and supporting services users need, and help policymaker better control all aspects in the contextual of hydrogen transport so as to promote the green and sustainable transportation system more smoothly. Hence, contribute to the "Net Zero Emission".
I was previously an automotive engineering student at Loughborough University and interested in the optimisation of the internal combustion engine. Towards the end of my studies, there was a strong voice from the environmental sector to the automotive industry regarding Green House emissions. This made me think and reconsider my career path.
I was exposed to the concept of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles (HFCVs) by chance, and since then I have been interested in the research relevant to the HFCVs. Amongst all topics, the safe 'retrofitting' of fuel cells into areas with little prior experience of hydrogen, especially cars, is the one that will raise a multitude of new issues. My supervisors were really approachable and can always help me spot the certain points that I haven't even noticed myself, and it is great to be in such a supportive research team full of opportunities.
As a PhD student in the School of Design and Creative Arts, I really enjoy our working environment and the research culture in our research group. We have a mixture of PhD students from various research teams in my office. Everyone is friendly and has the willingness to share their knowledge with others. This provides the opportunity for us to enjoy multidisciplinary work and enhance our research to the next level.
I am glad I applied for Loughborough University and still consider this to be a wise choice. I was given a warm welcome from the student community and support team, especially the reception staff. I knew nothing about Loughborough at the time, but security staff kindly drew me a map and patiently described where to find the shops. Although my English was not very good, I started to build up the confidence to talk to others. A friendly and supportive first impression helped me to settle down and gradually became part of the Loughborough family.