Description du sujet de thèse

The topics of the thesis are the synthesis, structural and electrochemical characterisation of catalysts for the anode of fuel cells operating with an anion conducting polymeric membrane. The studies will be performed in the frame of the European project SUSTAINCELL, involving laboratories in France and from six other European countries.
The objectives of the thesis are the exploration and improvement of the activity and stability of anode catalysts free of precious metals, establishing structure-property correlations and understanding their behavior in operando conditions by appropriate characterization techniques (large instruments such as synchrotron radiation facility). This PhD project leans on know-how and knowledge in the host laboratory, which allowed us reaching a power density of 600 mW cm-2 in fuel cell with a precious metal free anode.
The synthesized catalysts will be powders with high specific surface area that will be characterised with appropriate methods (X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, physi- and chemi-sorption methods, etc). The prepared catalysts will be systematically investigated with a rotating disk electrode setup in order to establish correlations between synthesis, structure, electrochemical activity and stability.
The most promising catalysts developed in this PhD thesis project will be integrated and measured in hydrogen fuel cells, combining them with membranes and ionomers developed by other partners of the SUSTAINCELL project.

Contexte de travail

The thesis will be carried out within the Institut Charles Gerhardt de Montpellier, a mixed research unit between CNRS, Montpellier University and ENSCM. The cluster "Electrochemistry for Energy" investigates and develops key materials for various electrochemical energy conversion devices, including batteries, electrochemical supercapacitors, fuel cells and electrolysers. Regarding fuel cells, the laboratory is internationally recognized for its work on novel membranes and catalysts for proton and/or anion exchange membrane fuel cells, spanning from the synthesis of novel materials to their integration in fuel cell.

Le poste se situe dans un secteur relevant de la protection du potentiel scientifique et technique (PPST), et nécessite donc, conformément à la réglementation, que votre arrivée soit autorisée par l'autorité compétente du MESR.

Contraintes et risques

A good level in English is required. Regular travels (at least twice a year) will take place to participate and present the obtained results at meetings of the SUSTAINCELL project.