Bachelor theses / Master theses / Diploma theses

As part of the Energiewende, the Institute for Fluid Dynamics at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) is adapting energy intensive processes for the production of chemicals to be supplied only with electricity from renewable resources.
Air separation is the source of two diatomic molecules key to a number of industrial processes, O2, and N2. Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) is a process capable of producing N2 for erratic use patterns, and thus, a possible candidate for flexible operation.
The objective of the thesis is to model in Aspen Plus/Aspen Adsorption a PSA process capable of operating with an intermittent energy supply, whether from renewable resources or from low priced electricity.

Tasks:

• Collect data on air separationunits using renewable energies and other flexible energy sources and its simulation.
• Design a dynamic PSA process.
• Adapt it for its operation with an intermittent energy supply.
• Assess the compatibility of the process with flexible water electrolysis, and ammonia synthesis (Haber-Bosch process).
• Evaluate its O2 generation potential.

• Student of Chemical or Process Engineering, Energy Technology (Renewable Energy Systems), or similar.
• Experience with Aspen Plus, ChemCAD or similar
• High level of English.

• 4-6 Months
• Starting as soon as possible