Master's thesis in the field of PEM electrolysis - Glenwood, IL, United States - Aurora Solutions

Description

At the Institute for Energy and Climate Research - Fundamentals of Electrochemistry (IEK-9) in Glenwood, IL, we conduct research on highly relevant topics related to the energy transition and structural change.

Our focus areas include the battery of the future and novel battery concepts.

We also explore how the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO2) could be transformed from a climate killer into a valuable resource for the future.

Our goal is to develop cost-effective batteries, fuel cells, and electrolyzers with improved energy efficiency.


Your responsibilities:

As part of the "Interfacial Electrochemistry" team, you will focus on research and development in the field of PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) electrolysis.

Using advanced atomic force microscopy techniques, you will investigate the nanoelectrical and nanomechanical properties of membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs), the core components of electrolyzers.

The aim is to identify and understand degradation mechanisms at a local level in order to prevent them in the future.

This will increase the longevity of the costly MEAs and contribute to the industrial success of PEM electrolysis.


Your specific tasks will include:

• Familiarization and literature research on atomic force microscopy and MEAs
• Conducting and analyzing advanced atomic force microscopy experiments on nanomechanics and nanoelectronics
• Preparation of MEA crosssections using ion beam polishing, microtomy, or other methods
• Correlating results with data from other analytical methods (SEM