Master Thesis: Process development for the continuous hydrogenation of γ-butyrolactone
Within the large-scale research project „Oxo-LOHC-Autotherme und ultratiefe Wasserstoff-Freisetzung aus LOHC-Systemen“ alternative process concepts and LOHC systems are investigated with the aim of specifically increasing the efficiency of hydrogen release and the usable hydrogen capacity. Due to its significantly lower reaction enthalpy, the LOHC system γ-butyrolactone (GBL) / 1,4-butanediol (BDO) has proven to be particularly promising. Currently, only a limited number of studies are available in the literature on the use of the GBL/BDO system as a hydrogen storage medium. Therefore, both the hydrogenation of GBL and the dehydrogenation of BDO will be comprehensively investigated from a process-engineering perspective.
The focus of this master’s thesis is the experimental investigation of the continuous hydrogenation of GBL. The objective is to understand the dependence of the key performance indicators conversion and selectivity on the process parameters pressure, temperature, and residence time. Based on these investigations, a model will be developed to identify an optimal set of operating conditions with respect to energy efficiency. Using this model, it will also be assessed whether higher overall conversion is more favorably achieved by applying more severe operating conditions or by implementing downstream separation processes.
Type of jobs:
- Operation of a continuous hydrogenation unit at laboratory scale
- Analysis, evaluation, and visualization of experimental data
- Literature review of processes for the separation of organic multicomponent mixtures
- Development of a model to evaluate the hydrogenation of GBL
Necessary qualifications:
- You are enrolled in a master’s program in chemical engineering, process engineering, or a comparable field and are close to completing your degree.
- You have very good knowledge of chemical reaction engineering, chemical reactors, and thermal separation processes.
- You work independently and in a structured manner.
- You are confident in using MS Office.
- You are fluent in either German or English.
Desirable qualifications:
- Solid experience in process modeling using Aspen or comparable process simulation software
Comments:
- The experimental work will be conducted in Nuremberg; the conceptual work can be carried out either in Nuremberg or from a home office.
- The master’s thesis will be supervised by Prof. Peter Wasserscheid and Dr.-Ing. Michael Geißelbrecht.
