Job University of Twente - PhD Energy from streaming potential using nanotechnology

In this project you will develop devices for the generation of molecular hydrogen and electrical energy from streaming water using the streaming potential. By coupling the generation of electricity to the generation of hydrogen in one process, we aim to increase efficiency as well as provide energy in an alternative storable form. In your Ph.D. project you will be using nanochannels and nanoporous membranes. It will specifically be your task to optimize the pore wall surface to obtain maximal mechanical-to-electrical conversion efficiencies. You will have to identify the optimal wall material and investigate the influence of different chemical functionalizations. For example, there have been reports that the generation efficiency will strongly increase when the liquid slips past the walls, because this decreases the hydrodynamic resistance. Part of your work will therefore be to chemically functionalize the channel walls to introduce liquid slip. At the same time energy generation will increase with pore surface charge density, which is also influenced by the surface functionalization. Influencing the surface charge density will therefore be another goal. In your research it will be important to develop a good theoretical insight in the different processes that influence the streaming potential, because this will guide your research. Possibly you will therefore be using simulation programs like Comsol Multiphysics to model your system. You will be part of a team with another Ph.D. student and a technician.

The candidate should have a background in chemistry, preferably physical and colloid chemistry, or physical sciences. Experience in microfabrication technology will be appreciated as well as affinity with theoretical modelling. A good knowledge of scientific English is required for everyday communication in the group and writing of well-structured reports in that language.

We offer you a PhD position for 4 years. Your starting salary will be € 2042, - gross per month in the first year and up to € 2612, - gross per month in the last year.

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