Master's Thesis – Electrochemical Investigation of Catalysts for Anion Exchange Membrane Electrolysis (AEM Electrolysis)

Research for a society in change: This is our drive at the Jülich Research Centre. As a member of the Helmholtz Association, we are presenting great social challenges of our time and exploring options for the digi­tali­sated society, a climate-saving energy system and related services. Work together with some 7,600 colleagues: in one of the largest research centres in Europe and shape the change with us! In the Institute of Energy Technologies – Basics of Electrochemistry (IET-1) we are researching highly topical topics about the energy transition and structural change. For example, we focus on the battery of the future and explore new battery concepts. How to make the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO2) from the climate killer a raw material of the future is another exciting topic that we are dealing with. The aim of the research and development work is to provide low-cost batteries, fuel cells and electrolyzers with improved energy and performance density, longer life and maximum safety! Find out more about our mission and future projects: go.fzj.de/iet-1. We offer you an exciting Master thesis – Electrochemical investigation of catalysts for anion exchange membrane electrolysis (AEM electrolysis)

AEM electrolysis is a key technology for the production of water, since it combines the advantages of competing electrolysis processes, such as alkaline and proton exchange membrane electrolysis, through the use of noble metal-free and cost-effective catalysts with current densities in operation. Currently, nickel-based catalysts are mainly used in AEM electrolysis. These are to be reduced or replaced by less critical raw materials. As part of this work, alternative catalysts for use in AEM electrolysis are to be used by the use of various electrochemical characterization methods, e.g. linear and cyclic voltammetry (LSV, CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and rotating disk electrode (RDE) as well as further analysis methods, are extensively investigated. Your tasks in detail: carrying out a detailed literature research into catalyst materials in AEM electrolysis and electrochemical characterization methods Conducting experiments for the determination of electrochemical base variables such as the electrochemically active surface area, catalytic activity and kinetics of various catalysts and mixtures Analysis of the chemical tendency to corrosion and electrochemical stability Analysis of structural and surface-specific properties by means of accompanying analysis, for example particle size distribution of the catalysts used and contact angle measurement Results report in presentations and possible through a scientific publication in a journal

Continuous master's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, physics or material sciences and a similar field Work experience found in a chemical laboratory Knowledge of inorganic chemistry and electrochemistry Basic knowledge of catalysis, corrosion or water electrolysis desirable Interest in electrochemical characterization methods and analytical work Motivation, high quality laboratory work, data analysis and interpretation of results Very good knowledge of English in word and writing; German knowledge of advantage

We work on highly topical socially relevant topics and offer you the opportunity to actively shape the change! We support you in your work: Sensual tasks: Their final work deals with a future-oriented, socially relevant issue with indeterminable practice in an international environment. Scientific environment: You expect excellent scientific equipment, modern technologies and qualified support from experienced colleagues. Successful entry: It is important to us that you arrive quickly in the team and are structured into your tasks. In addition, we will accompany you from the start and facilitate the start of our Welcome Days and our Welcome Guide: go.fzj.de/willkommen. Work-life balance: The possibility of (ort-)flexible work is given in principle after consultation and in accordance with the tasks and (on-site) appointments. Flexibility: Flexible working hours make it easier for you to join your studies. Health and well-being: Your health is at our heart. It offers comprehensive health management with a variety of offers – e.g. through a beach volleyball court, running groups, yoga courses and much more. In addition, you will be able to help you with our occupational health service and an experienced team of social counselling. Fair remuneration: Your final work will be appropriately rewarded with us. In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial team, we offer you a lot more: go.fzj.de/Benefits. .