High temperature heat pumps for waste heat recovery

(ref. BAP-2022-933)

The waste heat potential in Europe is huge and about 20% of thermal energy demand has a temperature between 100-200°C. Waste heat recovery is recommended to increase energy efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions of energy intensive industrial sectors. High temperature heat pumps that can reach temperatures up to 200°C find an interesting application potential in such heat recovery in industrial processes. Our research group, belonging to the Mechanical Engineering Department and located at the KU Leuven campus in Geel, works on these topics and strive to continuous innovation in the field. It is also linked to the research activities in Energyville.

The research project (UpHeat-INES_2) is aimed to propose a new design concept for high temperature heat pumps, based on innovative refrigerants (i.e. a mixture of water and ammonia). The present project presents a combined design, control and operation strategy taking into account the variability of the heat source on multiple time scales. Therefore, the candidate will have to develop a detailed model of a high heat pump system to be used for design and control of the considered heat pump prototype.

·       PhD in a relevant field for the project content

·       Proficient knowledge of English (possiblyproved by TOEFL, CAE of equivalent certificates)

·       Experience with programming languages is considered beneficial (software used in the project: Python, C++,…)

·       Willingness to cooperate in an open and multi-disciplinary environment, creative mind set and ability to take initiatives

We offer up to 2 years contract as postdoc, starting in early 2023 (to be agreed).

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Alessia Arteconi, tel.: +32 14 72 14 68, mail: alessia.arteconi@kuleuven.be.

KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us at diversiteit.HR@kuleuven.be.