Student paper

Life cycle analysis (LCA) as an important component in H2 pressure vessel development

Bachelor thesis or Master’s thesis

Make a contribution to establishing the fuel cell in the transportation sector!

In your thesis, you will use the LCA method to develop the evaluation of different process routes for the production of type IV hydrogen pressure vessels. The emissions generated by fiber composite components for hydrogen mobility and the potential for reducing them are becoming increasingly important in the industry. The basis for the assessment is the precise analysis of the manufacturing processes and usage phases of the products and the correct allocation of emissions generated along the process chain. With the help of the LCA, your thesis can be turned into a holistic view of sustainable technology.

StuWi Lebenzyklusanalyse (LCA) eng© IKV
Fiber winding process with robot-based winding system

The work is written in this working group:

In this context, the Winding Processes working group is conducting research with a broad industrial consortium on reducing emissions in the production of type IV hydrogen pressure vessels for mobile applications. With a large amount of data directly from the manufacturers, comprehensive analyses of the manufacturing processes are made possible.

Objective:

The aim of your thesis can be customised in this context and adapted to your own interests. In any case, you will make a decisive contribution to the future sustainable design of thermoset fiber composites!

Your task:

Research work on life cycle analysis Research work on life cycle analysis and methods for technology assessment
Structure of the manufacturing process in suitable LCA software Structure of different process chains in suitable LCA software
Analysis of emission sources and optimisation potential Collection of primary data at IKV and from industry
Analysis of emission carriers and optimisation potentials

Your profile:

  • Technical or scientific degree (e.g. mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, business administration, etc.)
  • Affinity for technology, creativity and willingness to learn
  • Independent, conscientious and team-oriented way of working