Polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEMFCs) are an intriguing technology for clean power production instead of fossil fuel-based generation and, hence, an integral part of the energy transition. Ionic liquids, especially protic phosphonium-based ionic liquids, emerge as promising candidates as electrolytes for the IT-PEMFC due to their high ionic conductivity at elevated temperatures and anhydrous conditions. In this master thesis, the influence of water content and temperature on the electrochemical behavior of the PPILs will be investigated using electrochemical and physicochemical methods in the Physicochemical Laboratory of the Institute of Energy Technologies – Electrochemical Process Engineering (IET-4). Here, you can find more information about our mission and projects: go.fzj.de/pcl.

Starting June 1, 2025, we offer you an exciting

Master Thesis – Electrochemical Investigation of Ionic Liquids for IT-PEMFC

The centerpiece of PEMFCs is the polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM), which should provide sufficient ionic conductivity and mechanical stability. However, the state-of-the-art PEMs Nafion and H3PO4 / PBI either require sufficient hydration for good ion conductivity or lead to catalyst poisoning. This makes it necessary to look for alternatives with good ion conduction, even in the anhydrous state. Ionic liquids, especially protic phosphonium-based ionic liquids (PPILs), are promising candidates due to their high ionic conductivity at elevated temperatures and under anhydrous conditions. With this background, we need you to electrochemically characterize PPILs under different conditions. Your tasks in detail will be:

• Determination of electrochemical and physicochemical properties of the ionic liquids with various methods: conductivity via Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), Walden plot for the determination of the proton conduction mechanism, electrochemical stability via Linear Sweep Voltammetry (LSV), Oxygen Solubility and Oxygen Diffusion Coefficient via Chronoamperometry (CA), thermal stability via Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-IR)
• Electrode preparation via polishing
• Close collaboration with internal and external cooperation partners
• Detailed evaluation and procession of measurement data

• Enrolled in a master’s program in chemistry, physics, materials science, or a related discipline
• Experience in practical lab work
• Theoretical knowledge of electrochemistry and electrochemical techniques is advantageous
• Strong analytical skills and a willingness to engage in experimental research
• A proactive and independent working attitude
• Good written and oral communication skills in English and/or German

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:

• Ideal conditions for gaining practical experience alongside your studies
• An interesting and socially relevant topic for your thesis with future-oriented themes and potential applications in energy storage and electrochemical systems
• A large research campus with green spaces, offering the best possible means for networking with colleagues and pursuing sports alongside work
• An interdisciplinary collaboration on projects in an international, committed, and collegial team
• The chance to prepare and work on your tasks independently
• Access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and the latest analytical techniques
• Guidance and mentorship from experienced researchers
• A stimulating environment that fosters independent research and critical thinking
• Flexible working arrangements, e.g., working from home
• The opportunity for a PhD position at the IET-4 might be offered to you following your master thesis, subject to sufficient skills and available job funding
• The position is for a fixed term of six months

In addition to exciting tasks and a collaborative working atmosphere at Jülich, we have a lot more to offer: https://go.fzj.de/benefits.