Job Delft University of Technology - PhD: Metal Membranes for Hydrogen Separation

In many of the hydrogen production processes (gasification, natural gas) hydrogen needs to be separated from the reaction mixture. The energy efficiency of hydrogen gas production processes is improved considerably by using membrane reactors. Large-scale, commercial application of membrane reactors is hindered by the limited lifetime of the membrane material. In this research new metal alloys will be developed and tested to obtain mechanically, thermally and chemically stable membranes.
Modelling and experimental routes will be pursued. The new metal alloys will be designed using predictive physical-chemical modelling based on (statistical) thermodynamics. The actual membranes will be produced with sputter deposition techniques. Their microstructure, properties and performance will be studied with state-of-the-art analytical instruments (such as XRD, FEG-SEM, XPS and STM/AFM). Experiments are foreseen to observe both in- and ex-situ the membrane microstructural changes and surface contamination when exposed to the process conditions.

The PhD candidate must hold a Master degree in Physics, Chemistry or Materials Science. The candidate must have the ambition to do scientific work at a high level and be fluent in English and experienced in writing. In addition, the candidate must have outstanding experimental competence and a strong affinity for physical-chemical modelling. Good communication skills and the ability to work in a team with academics and technicians are additional requirements.

TU Delft offers an attractive benefits package, including a flexible work week, free high-speed Internet access from home, and the option of assembling a customised compensation and benefits package (the 'IKA'). Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

For more information about this position, please contact Dr. Amarante J. Böttger, phone: +31 (0)15-2782243, e-mail: A.J.Bottger@tudelft.nl. To apply, please e-mail a detailed CV along with a letter of application by 15 February 2011 to: application-3mE@tudelft.nl. When applying for this position, make sure to mention vacancy number 3ME10-18.

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools. 

The research takes place in the framework of the Advanced Dutch Energy Materials Innovation Lab (ADEM).
The programme focuses on fundamental and applied materials research for sustainable energy technologies. Materials research is key to the sustainable energy future: use of renewable energy sources and conversion technologies, better use of existing sources through efficient production processes, and use of sufficiently available, environmentally sound materials.

Dr. Amarante J. Böttger
+31 (0)15-2782243
A.J.Bottger@tudelft.nl
Technische Universiteit Delft