Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology ICTOperation and Testing of PEMEL Short Stacks
Assistant
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Background
Polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolyzers (PEMEL) have been identified as a key component in a decarbonized large-scale energy system, as they can produce high-purity hydrogen from renewable electricity sources for the chemical industry or energy storage. However, the long-term durability and performance of PEM electrolyzers remain a major challenge, with degradation being a critical factor that limits their lifespan and efficiency. Recent studies have focused on developing accelerated stress test (AST) protocols for PEM electrolyzers to better understand the conditions and mechanisms that lead to degradation.
Aims
The aim is the operation of a commercialized test bench equipped with a 5 kW 6-cell stack at the Fraunhofer ICT in Pfinztal for long time degradation testing. The measurements are part of a larger research project named “hyBit” (hydrogen for Bremens industrial transformation) aiming to find operation strategies for large PEMEL plants. The tests will provide a better understanding of the various degradation phenomena and the recovery of reversible effects across PEMEL stacks. Among other things, the experimental methods will include high-frequency measurement and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy of the stack. The stack must operate continuously during these long-term test protocols. Other tasks consist of literature work and evaluation of the obtained data.
Tasks
- Operation and testing of PEMEL short stacks
- Data analysis
- Reviewing literature
Requirements
- Degree in the field of chemistry, chemical engineering or equivalent.
- Basic knowledge of electrochemistry, experience in operating small experimental plants and prior work in programming languages like python is an advantage.
- Good language skills in German or English.
- High level of motivation and high degree of independence.
- Teamwork and communication skills