Masterthesis: Combustion Kinetics & Numerical Simulation 1

As one of the oldest and largest Fraunhofer institutes, the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology ICT has special expertise: by linking the diverse research fields of polymer engineering, chemical processes, explosives technology, safety and security, and energy and drive systems, it achieves decisive breakthroughs. Examples can be found in lightweight construction for mobility, in environmentally friendly chemistry, in applications for the aerospace and military sectors as well as in life-cycle assessments, recycling and sustainability concepts – which you could soon help to create!

The combustion of solid propellants in energetic systems is a highly dynamic thermal process. It is strongly influenced by geometry, chemical composition, temperature, and pressure. In the Interior Ballistics & Detonics research group at Fraunhofer ICT, we focus on the modeling, simulation, and experimental characterization of these processes across different length scales.

The data obtained is used to continuously validate and further develop our models. The focus of this project lies on combustion kinetics. The objective is to develop a mesoscale description of solid propellant combustion based on global chemical kinetics. This description is mathematically modeled, simulated, and parameterized. The parameterization is carried out using experimental results generated within our group.

You will have the opportunity to apply computational methods, numerical simulations, and modeling in a practical research environment. In doing so, you will gain insights into thermodynamic and chemical processes in energetic systems. You will actively contribute to realistically representing highly complex processes and advancing simulation approaches in line with the latest state of research.

Be part of change

• Familiarization with the mathematical combustion modeling of solid propellants based on global kinetics
• Introduction to numerical solution methods for the corresponding models
• Implementation of a solver (preferably in Python or Julia)
• Parameterization of the model using experimental data

What you contribute

• Studies in (techno-)mathematics, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, process engineering, physics, computational engineering science, or a comparable field
• Knowledge in the numerical solution of differential equations
• Knowledge of mathematical modeling of chemical kinetics is advantageous
• Basic programming skills in Python, Julia, C++, or similar
• Good language skills in German or English
• A high level of motivation and a strong degree of independence

What we offer

• a demanding, attractive, interdisciplinary, and international working environment
• a supportive and appreciative working atmosphere
• opportunities for individual development
• flexible working hours through a flexitime arrangement
• parking spaces, cafeteria, and library on campus
• … and much more

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

Contact department:

Daniel Tomaschewski
[email protected]

Contact HR:

Laura Kühn

[email protected]

Telefon: +49 721 4640- 201

Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology ICT

Requisition Number: 83553Application Deadline: