At TNO, Thin Films for Energy

Research Fields: Fluid dynamics, Engineering, Electrochemistry

Electrolysers are reactors that can use renewable electricity to 'split' water into oxygen and hydrogen gases. Hydrogen gas can be used as an energy carrier and/or chemical feedstock, leading into a more sustainable society. Among the various electrolysis technologies, Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis (PEMWE) emerges as the most promising for generating green hydrogen from intermittent renewable energy sources. However, the present drawback lies in the large and costly components of current PEMWE stacks as well as the size of the electrolyser device, particularly for hydrogen production with limited space (e.g. off-shore hydrogen production). Manufacturing of PEMWE components should be optimized and scaled-up, while preserving performance and durability. In the ideal case scenario components should be manufactured in such a way that allows integration in more compact electrolysers.

The objective of this project is to design a new electrolyser architecture where all components are integrated in a thin-film device. This approach aims to reduce electrolyser footprint, to simplify manufacturing process, while keeping performance and durability.

What will you be responsible for:

• Literature research to provide you with the required background and the state-of-the-art

• Design / optimize the new electrolyser architecture

• Design / execute experiments to proof the concept

• Participate in group meetings to discuss results/drawbacks with the team

• Write final report of the project

• Present the outcome results of the project

Who are we looking for:

Our ideal candidate is someone who:

• Is a student from Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Applied Science, or similar background, resident in the Netherlands

• Is looking for a project of 6-10 months

• Is eager to learn about electrochemistry, electrocatalysis, fluid dynamics

• Is eager to work in the laboratory

• Is creative

• Can work both independently and as part of a team

• Has good communication skills in English

• Preferred start date: 02/09/2024

Are you already triggered by the project and would you like to help us advance the manufacturing of electrochemical devices for energy applications?

Please reach out to Oscar Diaz Morales (oscar.diazmorales@tno.nl) and/or Cássia Sidney Santana (cassia.sidneysantana@tno.nl).