PhD position on the thermoacoustic dynamics of can-annular hydrogen combustors in Zürich

The Laboratory of Combustion and Acoustics for Power & Propulsion Systems (CAPS) in the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering invites applications for a PhD position on the thermoacoustic dynamics of can-annular hydrogen combustors.

The goal of this research is to understand and model thermoacoustic instabilities in future can-annular hydrogen combustors. These combustors will enable clean combustion of green hydrogen in large gas turbines that will be used to balance intermittent electricity production of renewable sources. These thermoacoustic instabilities result from the constructive interaction of the unsteady combustion process and the combustor acoustics. They are strongly undesirable because they severely restrict the operating range of the engine. In this context, the development of special, more compact, can-combustors for hydrogen necessitates significant research effort to predict and prevent thermoacoustic instabilities.

This work will be performed through theoretical modelling and experiments, and possibly numerical simulations. The modelling tasks will deal with coupled stochastic differential equations, which will be derived to describe the complex nonlinear thermoacoustic interactions in compact can-annular combustors. Lab-scale experiments will be setup to reproduce the main features of the thermoacoustic dynamics of practical can-annular system. Experimental techniques for acoustics, combustion and fluid mechanics will be used to characterize the collective flame dynamics and the coupling between adjacent cans. The research outcomes are expected to be published in major specialized and broad-audience journals.

You are expected to have an excellent MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering or Physics. Very solid background in math and physics is required. Ideally, you have experience and a proven record in one or more of the following:

• nonlinear dynamics
• acoustics
• fluid dynamics
• combustion

We are looking for highly motivated, committed, and creative individuals, able to work in a team and with excellent communication skills. Working in a top-level research environment with advanced laboratory infrastructure, you will have a unique opportunity to develop your research abilities.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.