Study » Minithesis
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
Literature Review on the Production of Titanium Powder for Additive Manufacturing from Scrap Using the HDH Process

Background
Recycling titanium scraps through hydrogenation offers a sustainable approach to repurpose valuable material for additive manufacturing applications. The hydrogenation-dehydrogenation (HDH) process is central to this effort, allowing titanium scraps to be converted into usable powder for 3D printing and other AM techniques.
Job Definition
Conduct an extensive literature review covering the hydrogenation-dehydrogenation process as applied to titanium scraps for recycling. The review will explore key aspects such as hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms, powder morphology and quality requirements for AM, and comparative performance of recycled HDH powder Compile findings into a structured report, identifying the key challenges and benefits of using recycled titanium in AM.
Topic
A literature study on the state of the art of pyrometallurgical battery recycling

Background
The development of a robust lithium-ion batteries recycling process is an ongoing process. Despite the various efforts and advancements in technology, challenges remain. This thesis therefore focuses on providing an overview of current research approaches.
Job Definition
A comprehensive literature research has to be conducted, covering the following topics:
• State of the art of research
• A comparison of various pyrometallurgical recycling processes
• Identifying suitable slag system approaches for different input materials
Topic
Direct Gold Recovery from Computer Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs)

Background
Due to the noble nature of gold, targeted recovery from e-waste is a challenge due to the higher reactivity of other metals. Current hydrometallurgical approaches for gold recovery from PCBs always require several steps, resulting in losses. The aim of this study is to find a direct leaching method for the recovery of surface gold.
Job Definition
• Literature research on the state of the art and identification of suitable extraction processes
• Verification of approaches through experimental work
• Independent, responsible and conscientious work
Topic
Design of Fayalitic slags as an oxidic raw material for solar heat absorbers and storage media

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
• Focus: Slag design and doping of fayalitic slags
• Independent, responsible and careful work


