Stage | New electrolyser architecture for green hydrogen production

Electrolysers are reactors that can use renewable electricity to 'split' water into oxygen and hydrogen gases. Hydrogen gas can be used as an energy carrier and/or chemical feedstock, leading into a more sustainable society. Among the various electrolysis technologies, Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis (PEMWE) emerges as the most promising for generating green hydrogen from intermittent renewable energy sources. However, the present drawback lies in the large and costly components of current PEMWE stacks as well as the size of the electrolyser device, particularly for hydrogen production with limited space (e.g. off-shore hydrogen production). Manufacturing of PEMWE components should be optimized and scaled-up, while preserving performance and durability. In the ideal case scenario components should be manufactured in such a way that allows integration in more compact electrolysers. The objective of this project is to design a new electrolyser architecture where all components are integrated in a thin-film device. This approach aims to reduce electrolyser footprint, to simplify manufacturing process, while keeping performance and durability.

What will you be responsible for:

• Literature research to provide you with the required background and the state of the art.
• Design / optimize the new electrolyser architecture.
• Design / execute experiments to proof the concept.
• Participate in group meetings to discuss results/drawbacks with the team.
• Write final report of the project.
• Present the outcome results of the project.

Our ideal candidate is someone who:

• Is a student from Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Applied Science, or similar background, resident in the Netherlands.
• Is looking for a project of 6-10 months.
• Is eager to learn about electrochemistry, electrocatalysis, fluid dynamics.
• Is eager to work in the laboratory.
• Is creative.
• Can work both independently and as part of a team.
• Have a good communications skills in English.

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo and mbo-students for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

Important to be aware of before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed. For students at a college or university based in the Netherlands, TNO uses the UNL-template (supplemented with a number of specific agreements from TNO). For students of foreign and MBO educational institutions, the TNO internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign any other internship agreements.
• Before the start of the internship, the educational institution will need to confirm in writing that:
  • 1) you are enrolled at the educational institution during the internship, and;
  • 2) the internship takes place as part of the programme of the study.
• The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. Performance of internship activities from abroad is not possible.