Green hydrogen is becoming an important ingredient in realizing the energy transition, by storing large amounts of intermittent electricity and as a base chemical. Water electrolysis is a convenient way to create hydrogen from water and renewable electricity. To aid commercial viability membraneless electrolysers, like those described in https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpowsour.2020.229364, are promising innovations to increase the energy efficiency. Small inter-electrode gaps decrease resistance so that water of lower conductivity can be used. This project will be part of a European consortium of several universities and a microfluidics company. High volume microfluidics will be used to treat wastewater and create hydrogen at the same time.

Avoiding bubble formation requires a homogeneous flow distribution so that dissolved gas cannot accumulate in regions of low flow velocity. The transport of dissolved gas and bubbles will be modelled using COMSOL or CFD software like Ansys. Validation will be possible using the experimental results from a PhD project within the same consortium, see the vacancy "PhD position in membraneless water electrolysis" (TUD02324). The simulations will be used to improve and optimize the design of the porous electrodes and flow channels.

The research will be supervised by dr.ir. Willem Haverkort at the Process & Energy department and is embedded in both the wider e-refinery community at Delft University of Technology and the European project consortium. The earliest starting date is October 1st, although a later starting date may be possible. 

We seek a self-motivated conscientious researcher (f/m) with good communication and self-management skills.

A PhD degree in engineering or applied science and experience with computational fluid dynamics will be required. Knowledge of electrochemistry and experience with COMSOL is beneficial.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (salary indication: € 3.561 - € 4.490 per month). The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

This position is a temporary assignment for 18 months.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The Faculty of 3mE carries out pioneering research, leading to new fundamental insights and challenging applications in the field of mechanical engineering. From large-scale energy storage, medical instruments, control technology and robotics to smart materials, nanoscale structures and autonomous ships. The foundations and results of this research are reflected in outstanding, contemporary education, inspiring students and PhD candidates to become socially engaged and responsible engineers and scientists. The faculty of 3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with an international scope and high-tech lab facilities. Research and education focus on the design, manufacture, application and modification of products, materials, processes and mechanical devices, contributing to the development and growth of a sustainable society, as well as prosperity and welfare.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? This video will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.