PhD Position High-Fidelity Modelling of Intensified Hydrogen Production from Biomass
- Delft, Zuid-Holland
- € 2.770 per maand
- Tijdelijk
- Voltijds
800°C) in an oxygen-starved environment, to produce syngas from a feedstock like biomass. Many such processes are being experimentally investigated, but variability in yields and overall reactor performances (including fouling) remain a hindrance to scale-up. A viable technology will require for us to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms at the core of the reactors: coupling between fluid flow and chemistry, coupling between solid phase and fluid flow, solid phase decomposition, pollutant formation (including tars), impact of design choices and biomass type, etc. Classical, experimentally based investigation methods, often fall short of providing sufficient details for a deep understanding because of the extreme conditions. Numerical simulations can prove very valuable to help at the design stage and to develop efficient control strategies; but they need to be of sufficiently high fidelity to gain useful input. High-fidelity modelling, while still expensive, is considered more and more due to the continuous development of computational resources. The advent of GPUs, in particular, has recently enabled realistic multiscale simulations of processes ( ) and combustion devices ( ). Indeed, CFD methods are at a more advanced stage in other engineering fields bearing similitudes with the complex multiphase reacting flows at the core of gasifiers.The objective of the present PhD research proposal is to develop and leverage an already existing exa-scale friendly CFD modeling framework to advance the knowledge of novel plasma-enhanced biomass gasification systems. A big part of the thesis will be spent on investigating the best approach for magneto-hydrodynamics (MHD) modelling to include the plasma phase. Open questions related to devolatilization and char oxidation as well as the modeling of the two-way gas/solid coupling could also be investigated. Frequent interactions with another student performing experimental work with an in-house microwave-driven plasma gasification system are expected; and the available data will be used to validate numerical results.RequirementsSpecific Requirements
- We seek a motivated candidate (f/m/x) with strong communication and self-management skills, who is passionate about advancing the state of computational tools in order to help with the energy transition.
- The successful candidate holds a MSc. degree in computational science, applied physics, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering or a similar degree.
- Some experience with coding (Python, Fortran, C++ etc.) is required, affinity with computational methods and fluid dynamics is preferred.
- Curriculum vitae.
- Motivation letter highlighting your relevant research skills and motivation for doing this PhD project.
- Diplomas and transcripts of your BSc. and MSc. studies, including a certified list of grades.
- Name and contact details of two academic referees (preferably someone who supervised you during an academic project, like a MSc. thesis supervisor).
- The selection procedure will start as soon as the vacancy is posted.
- A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
- You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
- Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.
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