The large-scale carbon neutral production of ‘solar’ fuels and base
chemicals like hydrogen and syngas, ammonia, and methanol using only
renewable electricity, water, and air will play a pivotal role in the
transition towards a sustainable energy system. This can be done efficiently
in electrochemical reactors, similar to electrolysers, fuel cells, and redox
flow batteries.
The aim of these PhD projects is to make a step in our quantitative
understanding of the evolution of gasses inside porous electrodes, including
the effect of liquid flows. These gases may be the desired products, but
their presence can also adversely impact the performance.
The PhD positions focus on, respectively:
1) The pore level: using advanced 3D multiphysics simulations in COMSOL and
in-house code. Based on the continuum Poisson-Nernst-Planck equations, often
overlooked electrokinetic effects as well as bubble nucleation and evolution
will be included. By contributing to ongoing and future PhD projects there
will be ample opportunity to be involved in various applications.
2) The electrode level: using a powerful combination of multiscale
simulations, experiments, and imaging for optimal understanding. The
important effect of gas bubbles on the energy losses is the primary concern
in this project, which focuses on hydrogen production through alkaline
electrolysis. There are already various experimental efforts ongoing in this
direction that can be benefited from.
3) The cell level: the electrochemical conversion of CO2 is a promising
avenue for sustainable production of liquid hydrocarbons. The efficiency of
this process can be strongly improved using properly applied liquid flows.
Using hydrodynamic understanding, prototyping, and physical and possibly
microkinetic modeling, an optimized state-of-the art overall design is the
goal of this PhD research.
Common to all projects are (multiphase) fluid dynamics, physical transport
phenomena, and some electrochemistry. Depending on the project and the
background of the candidate, part of these topics may be learnt or refined
during the course of the PhD. Given the multi-disciplinary nature and
societal relevance, these projects are expected to provide a challenging but
stimulating and rewarding learning experience.
We are looking for highly motivated and assertive candidates with a sharp
mind for critical and creative thinking and good communication skills in
English.
An MSc in an applied science or an engineering discipline like applied
physics or mathematics, mechanical-, aerospace-, or chemical engineering or
equivalent is required as well as a proven affinity with and skill for
mathematical and computational modelling or experimental skills
respectively, depending on the position applied for.
To apply, please e-mail a motivation letter, a detailed CV and the names and
contact details of three or more references before April 1st 2019 to
J.W.Haverkort@tudelft.nl. Please clearly indicate your preference, if any,
for projects 1, 2, or 3.
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