Product Accelerator’s researcher Dr. Jingjing Liu and the team at the University of Auckland have been awarded Marsden Fast Start funding 2021. This research will crucially inform strategies for eliminating the thermal strain of water electrolyser, substantially extending the lifespan of electrolyser components and their capability for continuous operation. This will improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of electrolytic hydrogen production.
Global climate change prompts an urgent transition to a new low-emission future and the adoption of sustainable green energy. Water electrolysis is promising for “green” hydrogen production using electricity generated from renewable energy.
If you are interested in following up with any of the content discussed here, please get in touch with the lead investigator, Dr. Jingjing Liu, by email (jingjing.liu@auckland.ac.nz).
We are recruiting:
Position: PhD student
Project details:
Electrode surface dynamics in water electrolysis for green hydrogen production (Marsden FS funded project, Year 2022-2025)
Water electrolysis is the leading process for “green” hydrogen production using electricity generated from renewable sources. This hydrogen can then be applied as a form of green energy to replace fossil fuels. However, poor energy efficiency and degradation of water electrolysers over their operating lives remain major drawbacks for electrolytic hydrogen production. In this research, you will address a key challenge in efficient water electrolysis in a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) water electrolyser under intermittent power supply conditions. The electrode/catalyst surface dynamics will be investigated through experimental and mathematical modelling. This research will crucially inform strategies extending the lifespan of electrolyser components and their capability for continuous operation. The medium-term objective is to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of electrolytic hydrogen production.
Eligibility
This PhD project will be conducted at the University of Auckland in collaboration with the University of Canterbury. The ideal candidate will have a degree in either Chemical and/or Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Materials Chemistry. Experience in the fabrication and characterization of materials or in multiphysics modelling would be an advantage. This project will involve a significant amount of experimental work in New Zealand, so students located in New Zealand are prioritised, depending on the restrictions at the New Zealand border. Candidates should satisfy the requirements for admission as a PhD candidate at University of Auckland.
Total value and tenure of the scholarship
This project is funded by a prestigious research grant – Marsden Fast Start from New Zealand Royal Society.
NZD$35,000 per annum (not taxed), for three (3) years, 2022-2025. The project starts immediately when the student is available.
How to apply
To apply, please send a CV, academic record, and the names and contact details of two referees to Dr Jingjing Liu, jingjing.liu@auckland.ac.nz with “Water electrolysis PhD” in the subject line.
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