Stillingstittel:
PhD scholarship: Modelling of reacting multi-phase flow for biomass gasification applications (IVT - 32/16)

Stillingsbeskrivelse:

NTNU - kunnskap for en bedre verden

Ved NTNU, Norges teknisk-naturvitenskapelige universitet, skapes kunnskap for en bedre verden og løsninger som kan forandre hverdagen. 

Jobbnorge ID: 121051

A PhD scholarship within "Modelling of reacting multi-phase flow for biomass gasification applications" is available at the Department of Energy and Process Engineering, The Norwegian University of Science and Technology. The appointment has a duration of 3 years.

 

Topic: Gasification is a thermochemical process where carbonaceous fuels are converted into combustible gases often referred to as syngas. The syngas can further be transformed into liquid hydro-carbons through a Fischer-Tropsch process. However, future production of second generation biofuels requires a detailed understanding of the thermochemical conversion (pyrolysis and gasification) of various types of biomass. There is particular interest in using a diverse range of feedstock, from relatively clean wood to low-grade forestry and agricultural residues, partly to increase economic efficiency and since these types of feedstock will be available in substantial amounts. However, there are several critical challenges associated with using a wide range of feedstock types, and technological improvements are needed both related to the gasification process as well as the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis.

 

The objective of the PhD work is to develop a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools for numerical studies of the thermochemical conditions in a gasification reactor. The work furthermore involves studies of the interactions between the turbulent flow and chemical processes for the purpose of optimizing state-of-the-art gasification technology. Special emphasis will be on complex interaction between temperature, particle/gas velocity distributions within the gasifier, reaction kinetics of solid fuels, and particle interaction dependent on fuel characteristics.

 

The PhD work is part of the competence building research project Gasification and FT-Synthesis of Lignocellulosic Feedstock, supported by the Research Council of Norway and industrial partners. During the PhD study the candidate will work closely with and be co-advised by staff both at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and SINTEF Energy Research in Trondheim, Norway.

 

The successful candidate should hold an MSc in chemical engineering or engineering sciences and qualify for enrollment in the PhD program of NTNU. Motivation for fundamental scientific research of practical relevance is essential. Genuine interest in mathematical modelling and knowledge of programming of CFD such as OpenFOAM is a prerequisite, but direct experience with gasification technologies (either experimental or theoretical) will be prioritized.

 

Further details may be obtained from Professor T. Løvås, e-mail: terese.lovas (at) ntnu.no.

 

Conditions of appointment:

PhD Candidates are remunerated in code 1017, and are normally remunerated at wage level 50, gross NOK 430 200 before tax. There will be a 2 % deduction to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund from gross wage.

 

Engagement as a PhD Candidate is done in accordance with "Regulation concerning terms and conditions of employment for the posts of post-doctoral research fellow, research fellow, research assistant and resident", given by the Ministry of Education and Research of 19.07.2010. The goal of the positions is to obtain a PhD degree. Applicants will engage in an organized PhD training program, and appointment requires approval of the applicants plan for a PhD study within three months from the date of commencement.

 

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