Project Info
Multiscale characterization of PEM device components
Svitlana Pylypenko
spylypen@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
Multiscale characterization of polymer electrolyte membrane device components is crucial for improving their performance. This project will focus on the characterization of catalyst layers and porous transport layers using a combination of electron and X-ray-based techniques, along with other methods. SEM with EDS will investigate morphology and probe elemental composition. X-ray Micro-CT and nano-CT will be used to investigate larger features in the developed structures. This project will utilize various sample preparation methods and will be heavy on data analysis. This project is in collaboration with the industrial partner.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Not applicable.
contact Prof. Pylypenko
Primary Contacts:
Svitlana Pylypenko, spylypen@mines.edu.
Genevieve Stelmacovich, gstelmacovich@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
basic knowledge of chemistry, materials science or chemical engineering
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
flexible
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
electron microscopy, tomography, data analysis, sample preparation
MENTORING PLAN
The student will participate in the project meetings with the adviser and graduate student on a bi-weekly basis and will attend weekly group meetings (if student's schedule allows)
PREFERRED STUDENT STATUS
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Senior