Abstract
Electrochemical conversion of CO2 to products revolves around a good selection of the (electro-)catalyst, the cathode electrode, and the chemical environment, e.g. the solid electrolyte, fluid carriers etc. In this project, a reversed fuel cell concept is proposed, which consists of an electrochemical cell equipped with a solid electrolyte, namely a cationic and/or an anionic membrane (conducting cations or anions respectively) resulting in "electrochemical reactors".
Description
The reduction of CO2 to products is thermodynamically unfavourable for both free and solvated CO2. This is not simply, and it is related to the obvious free energy difference between CO2¬ and the final products, though it encompasses significant reaction barriers encountered along the conversion process. Therefore, transforming the CO2 reduction in an economically viable process requires the development of suitable catalysts (tailor selectivity and reduce electrical energy input – "overpotential"), and the development of optimized reactors (scalability) within the presently proposed approaches, which are electrochemistry, photochemistry, and a combination thereof, in electrochemical and photo/electrochemical reactors. Therefore, the present experimental project proposes to develop active and selective catalysts, suitable solid electrolytes and combine them into the photo/electrochemical reactors. Therefore, a topological-parametric optimization is strategically considered in the modelling project towards tailoring the electrochemical or photoelectrochemical reactor, both topologically and parametrically, for maximizing the conversion of CO2 to the targeted reduction product.
Requirements to fill the position
The scholarship is aimed at PhD researchers with proven experience in CO2 converting electrocatalytic systems. Preference will be given to a researcher with a background in chemistry, physics or engineering and specialists in electrochemical reactors. The researcher shall demonstrate mastery of writing scientific publications and fluency in English language.
Funding Notes: This Postdoc studentship is funded by Shell, through the foundation FUSP. The studentship will cover a standard maintenance stipend of R$86,097.60 per annum.
Documents/Information to be Sent:
Ref: 21PDR122
1) Fill-in the application form: https://www.rcgi.poli.usp.br/opportunities-aplication/
2) Send the following documents to rcgi.opportunities@usp.br
- Updated CV (with a link to the Lattes Curriculum, if applicable);
- H index;
- Arithmetic mean of the Impact Factor of all published papers;
- Number of years since PhD was concluded;
- A copy of the academic record/academic transcript of both graduate and undergraduate courses;
- A motivation letter highlighting your background and research interests (in English) to be filled in the application form.
Deadline: 15th March 2021
In case you have any question, please write to rcgi.opportunities@usp.br
