Masterthesis: Numerical Investigations in Solid Propellant Combustion

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!

How does a solid propellant burn under extreme conditions?
In our research group “Interior Ballistics & Detonics” at Fraunhofer ICT, we investigate exactly this question. We combine experiments with computational simulations to understand the combustion of solid propellants across different scales.

You will further develop an existing simulation code based on the discontinuous Galerkin method. In doing so, you will implement various numerical methods and analyze how they influence the stability, accuracy, and efficiency of the calculations. Different model assumptions for propellant combustion will be varied, and the results will be compared with existing experimental data.

You will learn how complex thermodynamic processes are modeled and simulated, develop an understanding of computational methods in practice, and contribute to realistically representing physical processes in energetic systems.

Be part of change

• Familiarization with the mathematical combustion modeling of solid propellants
• Familiarization with the (extended) discontinuous Galerkin method
• Familiarization with the programming language Julia
• Implementation of different numerical fluxes and discretization of modified mathematical models
• Evaluation of the numerical results

What you contribute

• Studies in (techno-)mathematics, aerospace engineering, computational engineering science, or a comparable field
• Knowledge in the numerical solution of partial differential equations
• Knowledge in mathematical modeling is advantageous
• Basic programming knowledge in Python, Julia, Matlab, C++, or comparable languages
• Good language skills in German or English
• High level of motivation and a high 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: 83555Application Deadline: