Today, The von Karman institute is looking for a PhD student in the Environmental and Applied Fluid Dynamics Department who would perform experimental analysis of two-phase flows in water electrolysis cells on a micro-scale.

Duration: 4 years

Deadline submission: 2nd of August 2024

About the Research topic: Green hydrogen is emerging as a versatile energy carrier for sustainable energies such as wind and solar energy. Green hydrogen can be produced by electrolysis of water, where electricity from a renewable source is used to split water into oxygen and hydrogen gas. This process takes place in an electrolyzer. This PhD project aims to analyze the multiphase/multi-species phenomena that occur in electrolyzer cells and develop experimental tools helping to analyze them and improve their performance. In an electrolyzer cell, multiphase flow occurs at different scales, from macroscales to nanoscales. A proper understanding of multiphase/multi-species flow at each scale is essential for the optimization of the flow in electrolyzer cells.
The objective of this PhD project is to produce experimental data to validate numerical results, as well as developing meaurement techniquesto characterize multiphase flow in porous microstructures. The proposed work includes also the design and manufacturing of a versatile experimental setup that will allow the study of multiphase/multi-species flow in porous media of different characteristics.

RESEARCH FOCUS:

• Understanding the effect of different parameters on the multiphase flow transport on porous media.
• Design and construction of an experimental setup for multiphase flow visualization in microporous media, focusing on the use of refractive index matching materials.
• Development of measurement techniques for flow visualization in micrometer size complex geometries.
• Provide a large experimental benchmark for the validation of numerical codes.

Requirements:

• You have a Master’s degree in a relevant field for the research project.
• You are analytical, a problem-solver, and eager to learn.
• You have good scientific writing and speaking skills in English.
• You can take initiative and work good independently, as well as in a team.
• Previous experience in the laboratory, as well as basic knowledge in multiphase flows is a plus.
• General VKI eligibility criteria

Benefits:

• Employed by the von Karman Institute for Fluid Dynamics in one of the most attractive areas of central Europe in the neighborhood of Brussels.
• Work at the internationally renowned von Karman Institute in a key role advancing technologies for future energy systems.
• Work in close collaboration with Belgian universities as well as an industry network.
• Become part of the VKI network with global access to industry experts and academics in the field of fluid dynamics, aerospace, propulsion, and energy conversion.
• Experience the unique international workshop character of the VKI working environment.
• Access to specialized seminars and lecture series and to world-unique facilities.

Eligibility Criteria:
As the von Karman Institute for Fluid Dynamics maintains an equal opportunities and diversity policy, everyone who meets the eligibility criteria below is encouraged to apply for this position.

1. meet the requirements for the duties concerned.
2. be a citizen of one of the VKI partner countries (see link): https://www.vki.ac.be/index.php/home-v16/eligibility

von Karman Institute Site Location: Close to Brussels @ Rhode-Saint-Genèse (Flemish-Brabant)