Postdoctoral expert (M/F) in experimental characterization of hydrogen flames

Job Description

Thesis Subject

Experimental characterization of hydrogen flames

Your Work Environment

The use of metal particles as energy additives in solid, liquid and hybrid propellants is a rapidly expanding strategy for improving the performance of propulsion systems. Metals, such as aluminum, magnesium or boron, offer a higher energy density than conventional hydrocarbons and can reach high temperatures (>3000 K). However, combustion of these particles generates condensed products that can affect overall engine efficiency, foul exhaust systems, induce instabilities and influence optical and thermal signatures.
The nature of the metal/alloy used determines the combustion regime involved (gas-phase or surface heterogeneous), and therefore the particle size of the oxides produced. In addition, depending on the conditions encountered in the combustion chamber (pressure, temperature, gas composition), combustion products can be nanometric and/or micrometric in size. In addition, the nature and proportion of gases present influence the composition of combustion products.
The aim of this project is to characterize the size and composition of metal oxides produced under conditions representative of rocket engines, for a selection of metals. After meticulous experimental characterization, the unique database obtained will be exploited to enhance the modeling tools currently available.
The candidate will be responsible for conducting and analysing combustion tests using metal particles in order to identify and characterise the combustion products
The activities will be as follows:
- Identify and characterize condensed combustion products from burning metal particles.
- Analyze the influence of combustion parameters (temperature, pressure, gaseous atmosphere) on the nature and morphology of solid residues.
- Predict the formation and transport of combustion products.
The planned progression over the 36-month period is shown below:
- Year 1: Literature review and experiments on operational systems. Analysis of results and drafting of an interim report. Implementation of new characterization systems.
- Year 2: Experimentation and analysis of newly developed systems. Analysis of results and drafting of a progress report.
- Year 3: Work on modeling tools. Overall interpretation of results and drafting of manuscript.
The candidate must possess the following skills:
Professionnal skills:
- Solid grounding in reactive fluid mechanics and materials
- Ability to analyse complex phenomena and interpret experimental results
Personal skills :
- Ability to adapt to changing project requirements and willingness to contribute to collaborative research.
- Ability to work as part of a team, with limited travel to attend project meetings.
Desired educational background
- Engineering degree with experience in one of the following fields: Fluid Mechanics, Combustion, Energetics, Materials
- Proven ability to work on research projects.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

2300 € gross monthly

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

The research professions