Master's Thesis »Optimization of the production of sugar-based, mesoporous carbon materials«

As one of 76 institutes of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft we show how to not only master crises, but grow from them. Pushing boundaries. Always trying something new. Not just thinking, but thinking ahead. We turn research into the future.

We want an earth that is worth living on. With our research in the divisions of climate-neutral energy systems, resource-efficient processes and circular products, we make concrete contributions to achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. Our employees conduct research in the fields of energy, environment, safety, health, communication and mobility.

Mesoporous carbons are a promising alternative to commercially used graphites and carbon blacks in energy storage applications. The synthesis of carbons from sugar via an ionothermal route was developed at UMSICHT and is now to be further optimized and prepared for scale-up as part of this master's thesis. The possibility of recovering salts from the washing solution for reuse will also be investigated experimentally for the first time.

What you will do

• Literature research on the basics, especially in membrane technology
• Developing a concept for scaling up the individual process steps
• Optimization of the washing step, e.g. by using a dead-end membrane test cell
• Production of mesoporous carbons, if possible using recovered salts
• Independent work in the laboratory and pilot plant, interpretation and presentation of results

What you bring to the table

• Studies in natural sciences or engineering (chemistry, mechanical engineering, environmental/process engineering or similar)

• Ideally practical experience, e.g. laboratory work or conducting experiments on technical systems

• Independent and conscientious scientific way of working

• Strong communication skills and enjoy working in a team

What you can expect

• As part of a dynamic team, you actively drive sustainable solutions for a resource-efficient future
• Opportunity to combine your knowledge from your studies with practical experience at the interface between business and science and to integrate your own ideas
• New Work, diversity and cooperative interaction are important components of our strategic orientation
• Flexible working hours - we know that your studies come first 
• Flexible work locations that fit your studies - mobile work and on-site work are combined as needed
• Intense support for the preparation of your final thesis
• Health and mindfulness programs for good balance
• You can find even more attractive benefits here: Fraunhofer UMSICHT as employer

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. 32884

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future. 

Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding this position:

Kimberley Matschuk
+49 208 8598-1544
bewerbung@umsicht.fraunhofer.de

Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety, and Energy Technology UMSICHT

Requisition Number: 75585