The Department Mechanics of Solids, Surfaces & Systems (MS3), part of the faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) is currently seeking an EngD candidate developing advanced sealing solutions for electrolyzer stacks, crucial components in green hydrogen production.
Hydrogen, a key player in the clean energy transition, requires efficient and safe production methods. Electrolysers, which split water into hydrogen and oxygen, rely heavily on effective sealing to contain (and separate) electrolytes, gases, and water within the system. However, current design models often overlook the microscopic details that significantly impact seal performance.
A major challenge is "roughness-induced leakage," where the microscopic surface roughness of materials creates pathways, called percolation channels, for fluids and gases to permeate through seals. This occurs even when seals appear macroscopically intact. This project aims to address this issue by developing tools and guidelines that account for surface roughness during the design process.
Furthermore, the sealing components must be resistant to degradation, as electrolyser stacks should produce hydrogen for a long time. Too frequent safety inspections are very costly, both monetary and laborious, and proper material and design selection for sealing is therefore a crucial component of the initial design phase of an electrolyser stack.
The goal is to improve the long-term performance and reliability of electrolyzer stacks by preventing leaks and ensuring the safe containment of hydrogen. Improved seal design will also minimize the need for frequent and costly inspections, contributing to the overall economic viability of green hydrogen production. By addressing the microscopic details of seal performance, this project aims to enhance the efficiency and durability of electrolysers, ultimately advancing the widespread adoption of green hydrogen as a sustainable energy source.
Your Role
The position will be at the University of Twente, but there will be a strong collaboration with our industrial partner Bosch Thin Metal Technologies in Tilburg. You play a crucial role in developing numerical design tools for roughness induced leakage of these seals and validation of the developed theories. In this, you can build on existing models available within the research group. Based on this, you develop design guidelines for surface roughness of sealing component specifications. You will spend most of your time at the University of Twente, where you will take relevant courses and receive scientific support. The experimental validation will mostly be done in Tilburg.
Information and application
You can apply for this EngD research position until February 28th 2025, by clicking the ‘apply now’ button below.
Please include:
* A cover letter of at most 1 page A4 explaining specific interests, the motivation for the application, and why you qualify for this position
* Your updated CV, including contact information for at least two academic references
* Copies of your academic transcripts from your Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees
* Title and abstract of your Master’s project/thesis
* Any additional supporting documents, such as publications or research experience
Note: The applications that do not include all required materials will not be considered.
The first round of interviews is scheduled between March 17nd and March 21th. A possible second round of interviews will be scheduled when needed.
Note: We reserve the right to close the application process early should we identify a suitable candidate before the deadline.
For more information about the position, you may contact prof.dr.ir. Matthijn de Rooij : m.b.derooij@utwente.nl or +31534891178.
About the organisation
The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor's and Master's students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.
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