PhD Position - Electro-chemo-mechanical optimization of ceria-based solid oxide electrolysis cells...

Work group:

IEK-1 - Werkstoffsynthese und Herstellungsverfahren

Area of research:

PHD Thesis

Job description:

At the Institute of Energy and Climate Research - Materials Synthesis and Processing (IEK-1), we work in a dynamic and international team of over one hundred materials scientists, chemists, physicists, mechanical engineers and technical staff on the development of advanced energy converters and high-performance storage devices (in particular oxide ceramic fuel cells, solid-state batteries, thermal barrier coatings for gas turbines and gas separation membranes). The focus is on inorganic materials processed as functional layers from powders or via the gas phase. For this purpose, we use scalable, industry-relevant processes that ensure rapid transfer of our research results to industry. Thus, our work contributes significantly to closing the gap between basic science and application.

Your Job:

The processing and improvement of next-generation solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOEC) is the core of a project funded by the Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung (BMBF) coordinated by IEK-1. A particular focus is on the electro-chemo-mechanical stresses in the cell during electrolysis operation. In this project, the primary goals are to improve the processing and performance of the cells, as well as the characterization of the chemical expansion of doped ceria under relevant operational conditions. The latter demands complex experiments to quantify the chemical expansion of doped ceria under the influence of temperature, oxygen partial pressure and electrical potential with non-destructive techniques. In cooperation with our project partners, this data will supply the foundation for a 3D model of the electrolysis cell that will allow the analysis of mechanical stresses during operation, and supply the basis for optimization of the cell.The tasks in the project fall broadly into two distinct categories. Which tasks is performed by the respective employees in this project will depend on the candidates experience and interests. A successful applicant must be able to cover at least one of the categories outlined below.Category 1: Manufacturing

• Fabrication and characterization of ceramic multilayer-systems (SOEC) as well as dense and porous ceramics via ceramic / colloidal shaping routes (e.g. pressing, screen printing)
• Adaptation of paste- and powder characteristics for the co-sintering of a three-layer system
• Analysis of the processing route with regards to the rheology of pastes, powder pre-processing and sintering procedures
• Ideal optimization of the fuel electrode microstructure (thickness, particle size distribution, porosity, tortuosity)
• Fabrication of full cells for testing by the project partner

Category 2: Characterization

• Microstructural characterization of porous ceramics using X-ray tomography methods with laboratory or synchrotron sources
• Conceptualization and design-of-experiment for non-destructive characterization of ceramics under controlled conditions (temperature, atmosphere, electrical potential)
• Possibly design of a sample holder for in operando experiments (and assembly together with the mechanical workshop)
• Planning, preparation and execution of in operando experiments (X-ray diffraction, absorption) at a synchtrotron

Your Profile:

• You have successfully obtained a degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in the area of Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry or Physics
• You have a solid background in the area of inorganic, non-metallic materials
• You enjoy hands-on tasks in a laboratory
• A background in ceramics processing, electrochemistry or x-ray methods at a synchrotron is desirable, but not mandatory
• You show initiative and work independently
• You enjoy working in a team and have good communications skills
• You are fluent in English (oral and written), knowledge of the German language is a plus

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change.

• You work on a diverse and challenging topic in an interdisciplinary and international team
• You obtain industry-relevant knowledge about the synthesis and characterization, as well as manufacturing and processing of ceramic materials
• You are a part of a dynamic collaboration with another Institute in Jülich as well as partners in Karlsruhe in a BMBF-funded project
• You participate in project meetings and present your work on national and international scientific conferences
• You participate in the graduate school of the IEK (HITEC)
• Your dissertation will be located at the excellence university RWTH Aachen

Your further development of your personal strengths is secured, e.g. through an extensive range of training courses; a structured program of continuing education and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral researchers via JuDocS, the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors: www.fz-juelich.de/judocs

• You will receive (if needed) targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service

The employment of doctoral researchers at Jülich is governed by a doctoral contract, which usually has a term of three years. Pay in line with 50% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) and additionally 60 % of a monthly salary as special payment („Christmas bonus“). Pay higher than the basic pay may be possible. Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich including our other locations is available at: www.fz-juelich.de/gp/Careers_DocsForschungszentrum Jülich promotes equal opportunities and diversity in its employment relations.We also welcome applications from disabled persons.

This research center is part of the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers. With more than 42,000 employees and an annual budget of over € 5 billion, the Helmholtz Association is Germany's largest scientific organisation.