Global description of the project
In this project of development and Evaluation of Protective Coating for Industrial Aluminum Electrolysis Cells, the students will be trained in developing and characterizing materials and coatings, and will participate in the development of specialized engineering tools having an important strategic and economic impact for our partner, Rio Tinto Alcan Inc (RTA). RTA is the largest Al producer outside of China and Russia. RTA Arvida R&D Centre (ARDC) has been at the forefront of innovation for the industry since 1946. They have developed the AP60, the most advanced Al smelting technology producing 40% more Al per cell than traditional processes.
Team: INRS and the partner are actively involved in this research project by providing data and expertise and giving access to its state-of-the-art R&D facilities.
Sub-project of INRS : Synthetizing and developing protective coatings for use in Al electrolysis cells.
PhD project description
This project aims to study the corrosion kinetics of materials in the Al electrolysis cells. Using this knowledge, the material composition and microstructure will be adapted to produce corrosion resistant coating. The thesis involves the use of XPS, SEM, XRD, and other characterization techniques for the degradation of the coating and electrode surfaces. The project will lead to a Ph.D in Sciences de l’énergie et des matériaux of INRS.
Study Program
This study project will be carried out under the following program: Ph.D. in sciences de l’énergie et des matériaux (French description)
Qualifications required
In order to build the R&D team of the project, we are recruiting motivated, dynamic and talented candidates for PhD and master students in all pertinent domains including: Engineering (chemical and biotech, mechanical, material sciences, Electrical and Control), Electrochemistry, Chemistry. Recruitment of the graduate students will be done based on their motivation for the project and their expertise in modeling or development of sensors, regardless of their origins, gender, or beliefs. An effort will be made to recruit students with diversified backgrounds. Knowledge of thermodynamics and/or corrosion in a molten salt environment and experience in aluminum or metal corrosion will be considered an asset.
Beginning of the project
2024
Supervision
Scholarship
INRS offers financial support to its student community. However, candidates are also invited to apply for scholarships from FRQNT, NSERC, etc.
Location
UMR INRS-UQTR sur les matériaux et les technologies pour la transition énergétique
Pavillon Tapan-K.-Bose
3351, Boul. des Forges C.P.500
Trois-Rivières (Québec) G9A 5H7
Canada
How to apply
Interested persons can submit their application to professor François Allard by using the online form. The application must include:
- Complete CV
- A statement of all your academic transcripts
- Motivation letter (maximum 1 page) describing their research interests
- The name of three contact information for further reference.