Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology ICTModeling electrolysis systems
- Master thesis
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Motivation
Electrolysis processes play a significant role in the development and implementation of the hydrogen industry in Germany. They enable the production of green hydrogen using renewable energy sources. To enhance the efficiency and sustainability of these processes, a detailed modeling and simulation of the underlying physical processes is necessary. Advances in the simulation of electrolysis processes can significantly contribute to the optimization of systems and thus pave the way for widespread industrial application.
Aims
The objective of this Master's thesis is to create or further develop new or existing models for the simulation of electrolysis processes. Depending on the interests and prior knowledge of the student, various focal points can be selected:
- System Models: Investigation and further development of comprehensive models (AWE and PEM electrolysis) that depict the entire electrolysis process, including peripheral systems and process dynamics.
- Physical or Data-Driven Cell Models: Detailed modeling of individual cells and stacks to simulate and optimize their behavior under various operating conditions. Either physical models based on fundamental principles or data-driven approaches based on measurement data can be employed here.
- Physical Single-Channel Models: Development and refinement of models that simulate the transport of ions, electrons, and gases in a single channel of the electrolysis cell in detail, to enable a better understanding of the local processes.
This Master's thesis offers you the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge, application-oriented research on electrolysis processes and make a significant contribution to the energy transition.
Tasks
- Familiarization with the fundamentals of electrolysis and existing modeling approaches or software.
- Selection of an appropriate modeling approach (system model (Modelica), cell model (Python), single-channel model (COMSOL Multiphysics)).
- (Further) development of the simulation model and execution of optimization trials and parameter studies.
- Analysis and interpretation of the simulation results.
- Documentation of the results and derivation of optimization proposals for real electrolysis processes.
Requirements
- Studies in the fields of engineering, physics, chemistry, computer science, or a comparable discipline.
- Basic knowledge of physical system modeling, the mentioned software, and/or machine learning is advantageous but not required.
- Interest in electrochemical processes, energy systems, and their mathematical modeling.
- Ability to work independently, along with strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
- Good command of the English language.