Study » Master Thesis
IME offers students of engineering, materials science and chemistry with a background in process technology many topics for theses or student research projects such as bachelor, project, minor or master theses, as well as seminars. Below you will find a selection of current work topics for which the corresponding scientific staff can be contacted. You are also welcome to express your own ideas for supervised work and to initiate them in consultation with the scientific staff. We will find an interesting and exciting topic for everyone.
Other Topics
Topic
Development of self-learning optimization algorithms for pyrometallurgical process development using the case study of electronic scrap recycling
Description
Master Thesis
Duration
6 month(s)
Start
Immediately
Contact
M.Sc. Joscha Kortmann
Background
Development of intelligent, sequential algorithms for the synthesis and optimization of pyrometallurgical processes based on thermochemical data. The aim is to develop a self-learning algorithm that automatically determines process sequences under defined, process-related restrictions and an intelligent optimization search.
Job Definition
– Design of an efficient search strategy
– Literature review to identify technical limitations
– Implementation of the algorithm
– Evaluation through comparison with the state of the art
Requirements
• Good knowledge of Python and Scikit-Learn
• Ability to work independently and responsibly
• Interest in computational metallurgy
Topic
Recycling of NMC Lithium-Ion Batteries: Validation of IME Reference Process
Background
In the recent years, unconnected researches with interesting results were carried out at IME related to LIBs recycling. After a battery group brainstorming, an IME reference process was envisioned. The goal is to validate this recycling process, starting from a discharged battery cell and finishing with metals precipitated salts.
Job Definition
• Carry out experiments in each process step (inert shredding, thermal treatment, lithium first recovery, Ni-Co hydrometallurgy)
• Assessment of mass balances and efficiencies for every step and the whole process
• Defining best parameters
Topic
Study of Fluorine Volatilization and Its Impact on Lithium Recovery in the Pyrolysis of LIB Black Mass
Description
Master Thesis
Duration
6 month(s)
Start
Immediately
Contact
M.Sc. Thanu Velmurugan
Background
Efficient battery recycling not only reclaims valuable materials but also minimizes environmental impact. Understanding the thermal breakdown of Li-ion battery components is vital, influencing gas composition and revealing insights into material behavior during recycling.
Job Definition
This master’s thesis focuses on investigating the pyrolysis of lithium-ion battery black mass under various operational conditions.
• Conduct laboratory-scale pyrolysis experiments to analyze solid and gaseous products.
• Apply simulations to predict fluorine compound behavior and optimize lithium recovery efficiency.
• Utilize TG to monitor weight loss, phase transitions, and heat flow, identifying key thermodynamic properties during pyrolysis.
Topic
Calibration set-up for the quantitative analysis through Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)
Description
Master Thesis
Duration
6 month(s)
Start
Immediately
Contact
Dr.-Ing. Daniel Munchen
Background
LIBS is a type of atomic emission spectroscopy for the qualitative and quantitative chemical multi-elemental analysis in real time for a wide range of applications. Quantitative analysis is based on calibration with reference materials containing different analyte concentrations. Depending on the analyte-matrix, element concentrations in the low ppm-range can be measured.
Job Definition
• Perform the calibration and quantification of solid samples
• Create different programming scripts for specific types of analysis (knowledge of Python language is required)
Topic
Design of slag systems of fayalitic by-products as an oxide raw material for solar heat absorber and storage media
Description
Master Thesis
Duration
6 month(s)
Start
Immediately
Contact
M.Sc. Dorothea Schneider geb. Kenn
Background
Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technology is becoming increasingly important due to the need for sustainable and resource-efficient energy. This work aims to evaluate the current status of absorbers and storage media, as well as research approaches using fayalitic slags as the basis for new systems.
Job Definition
• Literature research and definition of the state of the art of CSP heat absorbers and storage media
• Familiarization with slag design and doping of slags via FactSage and initial experimental implementation
• Developing and conducting test series
• Independent, responsible and careful work
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