FEM simulation and practical validation of the mechanical stability of nanostructured electrodes for use in electrochemical cells

Advancements in healthcare, biotechnology, and sustainable energy require an influx of cost-competitive and highly effective 3D materials with specialized chemistries and a high surface-to-volume ratio. Electrodeposition can play a significant role in addressing challenges in biotechnology and sustainable energy by offering a route to scale-up manufacturing of advanced 3D materials with high performance and durability. In the healthcare industry, such 3D materials are highly desired as a platform for state-of-the-art DNA sequencing and analysis to help scientists better understand the functional aspects of DNA, screen for rare diseases, and uncover mysteries behind genetic mutations. Electrodeposited 3D materials are also essential to our transition into a greener future. They will become building blocks for next-generation high-capacity batteries and will be a key for providing a competitive edge for green hydrogen and CO₂-reduction over fossil fuel-based technologies.

In this Master’s thesis you will use a finite element model (FEM) to understand the mechanical characteristics of a nanostructured mesh electrode that is monolithically integrated with a microstructured support. Finding where stress concentrations happen under different loads will allow you to guide the further development of these materials. The modification of both, the nanostrucutres and the support, will be part of this study.

In a second step, your model can be validated with suitable practical experiments. Therein, a variety of electrodes will be subject to a defined load with subsequent analysis of the failure mechanisms.

For more information on this topic, please contact Houman.Zahedmanesh@imec.be or Rico.Rupp@imec.be.