PhD (4 years) on numerical simulation of composite hydrogen tanks (Belgium) Full-time NEW

[Net salary (after taxes) starting from 2600 EUR/month]

Belgium has been taking a leading position in the transition towards a hydrogen economy thanks to many companies and research institutes active in hydrogen technologies. In addition, Belgium has currently the second largest hydrogen pipeline network in the world and has a strategic position in Western Europe as an import and transit hub for renewable H2 molecules.

In the context of these global and local evolutions, Ghent University (UGent) focuses on an important link in the future hydrogen economy, being the storage of hydrogen in pressurized composite tanks, both in the vehicle itself as in refueling stations. Indeed, the success of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles depends both on the development of safe storage options in the vehicle, as well as a supporting refueling infrastructure.

UGent-MMS is partner in a large new research project with several leading companies in the automotive industry. This research project aims at developing composite solutions for future hydrogen storage tanks. This PhD vacancy is focused on the finite element modelling and design of the pressurized composite tank, in different operational conditions (pressurization, depletion, thermomechanical loads). The research will be done in close collaboration with the involved industrial partners.

The PhD researcher will also closely work together with the other doctoral and postdoctoral colleagues that work on composite hydrogen tanks, to form a strong and complementary team for this highly challenging research topic.

Only candidates with a Master degree should apply. The candidate should have a strong interest in computational mechanics of composite materials, and should be enthusiastic to work in a collaborative project between industry and academia.

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Tagged as: Engineering