Rex Thorpe

Rex Thorpe is a Professor of Chemical Engineering at the University of Surrey's School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. His work spans multiphase flow analysis, energy optimisation in wastewater treatment, and innovative chemical recycling technologies. Former Head of Chemical and Process Engineering (2008-2015), he has pioneered research in anaerobic digestion flexibilisation and membrane technology for water treatment.

• Key research areas: multiphase flows in industrial systems
• Energy recovery from sewage sludge
• Advanced plastic recycling methods
• Volatile organic compound (VOC) abatement

His recent publications focus on direct contact heat exchangers, dynamic biogas systems, and salinity effects on membrane permeability. The studies frequently combine experimental validation with mathematical modelling across scales from pilot plants to full municipal operations.

Scientific accolades include:

• Fellow of the Institution of Chemical Engineers (FIChemE)
• Chartered Engineer (CEng)
• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)

As an educator, he teaches Energy and Industrial Systems and Process Equipment Design modules. His legacy includes foundational work on pipe bend forces, fluidised bed conveying, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) calibration techniques.