PhD student positions in Experimental studies on dynamics and combustion of ultra-high pressure hydrogen jet

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We are looking for two

PhD student positions in Experimental studies on dynamics and combustion of ultra-high pressure hydrogen jet

The work will be completed at the Department of Mechanical Engineering in the Energy Conversion and Systems research group. The research work will be completed as part of a multidisciplinary team focusing on internal combustion engine relevant studies, including optical diagnostics in the constant volume chamber, full-metal and optical research engines.

The following topics are available for two PhD students:

Topic 1: Visualization of the dynamics and combustion of the ultra-high pressure H2 jet: Using optical tools (Schlieren, PIV and PLIF) to visualize the characteristics of the ultra-high pressure (>300 bar) H2 jet in an optical spray and combustion chamber.

The project focuses on studying ultra-high-pressure hydrogen jets under engine-like conditions using advanced optical diagnostics. Experiments will primarily utilize cutting-edge techniques such as two-color Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), two-color Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence (PLIF), and high-speed schlieren imaging within an optical spray and combustion chamber. The primary objective is to characterize jet dynamics, ignition behavior, and the combustion process, with the resulting data serving as crucial input for Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) validation. Prior experience in optical diagnostics for spray and combustion systems would be particularly advantageous.

Topic 2: Experimental studies on engine performance using ultra-high pressure H2 jet: Full-metal and optical engine studies.

The engine studies will be conducted using both a single-cylinder full-metal engine and an optical engine. To address challenges like low power density, limited operating range, intake flashbacks, and the high tendency for knock and pre-ignition, extremely high injection pressures (>300 bar) will be employed in internal combustion engines (ICEs). Initial performance and emissions assessments will be carried out in the full-metal engine. Subsequently, more in-depth, fundamental studies will be conducted in the optical engine, utilizing techniques such as UV-enhanced natural flame luminosity, OH* chemiluminescence, Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), and Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence (PLIF).

Requirements

The applicant should have a good experimental track-record with additional background knowledge in some of the following topics:

• Knowledge in internal combustion engine, fluid dynamics, and combustion
• Matlab, Python, and other programming languages
• Machine learning or deep learning in image post-processing
• Experience using optical tools, e.g., high-speed cameras, intensifiers, spectrometers, lasers, etc.

The applicant for the position of a Doctoral Candidate must have a Master’s degree and must fulfill the requirements for doctoral students at the Aalto University School of Engineering.

Employment

The employment is full-time and fixed-term. The annual workload for research and teaching staff at Aalto University is 1612 hours. The expected duration of doctoral studies is four years, but the first contract is a two-year fixed-term contract, and the extension depends on candidate’s advancement in her/his studies and research. The salary is according to the salary system of Aalto University, starting around 2700€/month.

How to apply

Please, submit the applications online through the link provided below no later than September 29th 2024 including

1. Motivation letter

2. CV

3. Certified copies of the completed degrees certificates and official transcripts of records, and their translations, if the originals are not in Finnish, Swedish or English

4. Proof of proficiency in Finnish, Swedish or English if the applicant is not a native speaker of them

5. Copy of Master thesis and 2 most important publications (Max file size 10 Mb).

Further information

For additional information on funding and contents of work, please contact Associate Professor D.Sc.(Tech.) Ossi Kaario or Staff Scientist Qiang Cheng. In questions regarding the recruitment process, contact HR GeneralistnElmeri Martikainen. E-mails: firstname.lastname@aalto.fi.

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