Getting the bubbles out of the way of green hydrogen
Dominik Krug, Faculty of S&TBubbles can reduce the efficiency of gas-evolving processes, such as water electrolysis, which is used for making green hydrogen. If this issue can be solved, green hydrogen can be produced more easily and at a lower cost. This is crucial to meet the projected hydrogen demand in a net-zero world. Dominik Krug wants to study passive ways that work without external energy input to mitigate bubble effects in the process. The general idea to achieve this is to bring the gas-liquid interface close to the reaction site, but to do this in a controlled manner to avoid blocking the electrode. This can help reduce or potentially entirely eliminate detrimental bubble effects and improve performance.
"I will try two methods to do this. First, I will focus on controlling the bubbles so they form in the right places and leave at the right time. This concept has the advantage that it can easily be integrated in current technology. Second, I will study how capillary effects can be exploited to remove the gas from the electrode before bubbles even form. The potential gains are even higher for this approach, but it also is more challenging.", says Krug. However, building on his earlier research in this area, Krug also expects the project to improve our understanding of the relevant bubble physics.
Tightly packing topological insulators
Dr Pantelis Bampoulis, Faculty of S&TTwo-dimensional topological insulators are special materials. They have an inside that does not conduct electricity, but their edges do. This means electricity can flow along the edges without losing energy. Because of this, they are great for low-power electronics. However, there is a problem. The number of edges and the number of topological states is limited. To advance their practical use, we need a higher density of these topological states without sacrificing their special properties.
"In my research, I will look at how topological states behave when they are close together. I will create and study many topological states by using two methods. First, I will place very thin ribbons next to each other. Second, I will stack and twist layers of these materials," says Bampoulis. For his research he will use a material called germanene, which has the right properties for this research. This work will improve our understanding of these topological states and could lead to new energy-efficient technology in the future.
About NWO VIDI
Vidi is a funding instrument from the NWO Talent Programme. The aim of the NWO Talent Programme is to provide creative space for adventurous, talented, pioneering researchers to do research of their choice, develop their own line of research and further develop their talent. The Vidi target group consists of researchers in transition to leadership. They also have academic qualities that clearly transcend what is usual and demonstrate development of leadership and mentoring qualities.Prospective students
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