Accelerated stress testing and degradation mechanisms in CO2 electrolysis cell

Project description

This project aims to develop efficient and robust electrochemical and photoelectrochemical CO2 reactor cells to convert carbon dioxide to chemicals. We will develop a microflow reactor cell to study catalysts for CO2 conversion to carbon monoxide under controlled conditions of flow, current, and voltage. The project will develop accelerated test methods to study how the reactor performance degrades during operation at industrially relevant conditions, and identify the critical degradation mechanisms for catalysts. The outcomes from the project will help to design better catalysts, electrolytes, and reactor configurations.

Outcomes

Project deliverables and outcomes:
1. A novel microflow reactor design
2. Accelerated CO2 electrolyser stress testing methods
3. Data on performance of CO2 electrolysers under sustained operation
4. Models to describe the degradation of catalysts and reactors under industrial operating conditions

Essential capabilities

Laboratory experience; critical thinker

Desireable capabilities

Python coding skills

Expected qualifications (Course/Degrees etc.)

chemical engineering, chemistry, physics or related disciplines

Additional information for applicants

note: i-students must have own scholarship to apply (CSIR, UCG-NET, etc)