Green hydrogen will likely become a very important ingredient in realizing the energy transition, by storing large amounts of electricity and as a base chemical. In alkaline water electrolysers, hydrogen can be conveniently generated from water and renewable electricity. To aid commercial viability, the energy efficiency at high production rates will have to be increased significantly, to reduce the relative cost of electrolyzers.

A significant energy loss is associated with the hydrogen and oxygen gas that is produced, first in dissolved form and then as bubbles. Presently, there are no validated models that can be used to optimize electrodes and cell configurations with respect to gas evolution. In this project we aim to gain insight into the complex interplay between dissolved gas, bubbles, electrolyte flow, and electrochemical reactions. Depending on the interests and skills of the candidate this can be through experiments and/or simulations. High-speed images, flow measurements, and electrochemical measurements can be analyzed in a variety of different cell configurations, which are either already available or can be developed. Computational fluid dynamics simulations combined with mass transport and electrochemistry, in software like COMSOL, may be used to optimize electrodes and cells.

The research will be supervised by dr.ir. Willem Haverkort and collaboration is foreseen with several other researchers at the Process & Energy department and within the wider e-refinery community at Delft University of Technology. Collaboration with external partners is encouraged. The desired starting date is as soon as possible. 

We seek a self-motivated critical thinker (f/m) with good communication and self-management skils.

An MSc degree in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, (applied) physics, or equivalent will be required. Having taken courses in (computational, multiphase) fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, and/or electrochemistry will be desirable.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers PhD-candidates a 4-year contract, with an official go/no go progress assessment after one year. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2395 per month in the first year to € 3061 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts 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.

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.