Are you fascinated by the challenge to de-fossilize shipping? Ammonia is a sustainable, carbon-free fuel that could take-up that challenge. In the AmmoniaDrive project an innovative combination of a Fuel-Cell (SOFC) and an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) is introduced.

However, using ammonia efficiently in such an application has many challenges. In this PhD project the focus is on optimizing the ICE using NH3/H2 by Computation Fluid Dynamics (CFD).

Background

Ammonia is considered by many as an effective hydrogen carrier and future fuel for sea-going vessels. This is mainly because of its cost-effectiveness, scalability, energy-density, and the simple fact that it is carbon-free.

Overall Project Objective

The main objective of the AmmoniaDrive research project is to increase both the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) and Societal Readiness Level (SRL) of AmmoniaDrive power plants. The consortium will aim to achieve this with nine PhD researchers and a Post-Doctoral researcher. The PhD researcher sought for this vacancy is expected to collaborate with the fellow researchers in the AmmoniaDrive project and the project partners (6 Dutch universities, 3 knowledge institutes and 15 companies).

PhD Project Objective

Work package 1 (WP1, 4PhD's) focuses is on the performance of NH3 in the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE)/Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) combination. NH3 might not burn efficiently enough (too slow) even in slow-running marine-size engines. However, the SOFC may be used to generate H2 and increase the burning velocity considerably. To study this in detail a numerical model (CFD) will be developed to predict the behaviour of NH3-fueled engines and the effect of adding H2 from the off-gas of a Solid-Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC).

The following challenges are identified for this PhD project:

• Implement and validate an efficient combustion model for baseline NH3 engine experiments. Close collaboration with PhD3 (engine-experiments) from WP1.
• Predict effect of synthetic AOG (H2 mostly) on the efficiency of the engine. Interaction with PhD1 (SOFC experiments) for a realistic AOG composition and PhD2 for accurate chemistry model for NH3/H2 mixtures.
• Investigate advanced technologies to (further) increase efficiency, e.g. Turbulent Jet Ignition, High-Pressure DI, RCCI concept. Co-operate with PhD3.
• Investigate the application of NH3/AOG in a large two-stroke marine size engine.

She/he will be in Eindhoven. Daily supervisor of the PhD researcher will be dr.ir. L.M.T. Somers and dr.ir. X.L.J. Seykens (TU/e-TNO).

• A master's degree (or an equivalent university degree) in Mechanical Engineering, Physics or Numerical Mathematics or alike
• A research-oriented attitude with an interest in numerical modelling
• Background in CFD and combustion is appreciated.
• Ability to work in a team of fellow researchers and industrial partners.
• Fluent in spoken and written English.

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate evaluation (go/no-go) after nine months. You will spend 10% of your employment on teaching tasks.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. €2,770 max. €3,539).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.