Master's thesis; Insulation of 3D printed copper parts towards highly critical electrical applications’

Looking for an exciting thesis project? Join us in discovering the optimum way to insulate copper peices that have been printed. This is an opportunity to make life-long industrial contacts within the project in the area of surface effects and polymer chemistry, working wtih innovative materials and testing methods, while tackling real-world challenges. Get hands-on in the lab, work with cutting-edge tech, and play a role in the green energy revolution!

Background
Master thesis work that is part of an ongoing research project focusing on ‘Insulation of 3D printed copper parts towards highly critical electrical applications’

Description
This thesis project will focus on developing insulation systems for electrical motors and will involve:

• Collecting specifications of the insulation application targeted (Temperature resistance, electrical insulation)
• Identify primer and insulation candidates (powder coating and resins) that could be tested on printed copper discs.
• Characterizing adhesion (KTH), electrical testing (Scania), aging with exposure to oil/water in oven (KTH or RISE) with changes in copper surface properties
• Testing the most promising coatings on more complex printed copper pieces
• Potential powder coating insulations in Mölndal at RISE, resins can be dipped and cured in the oven.
• Copper surface can be modified with methods including sandblasting, polishing, other techniques if possible
• Investigate the minimum amount of insulation needed between copper interfaces to withstand the occurrence of partial discharges at the applicable voltage in collaboration with project partner Scania.
• Consult with Clever Compliance within the project to determine if there are any factors to be considered in terms of compliance

Key Responsibilities

• Summarizing information from the literature and from partners regarding state of the art
• Visiting partner sites, networking, and helping to perform testing/project work.
• Summarizing results, drawing conclusions, and suggesting future work with project partners

Qualifications
We are looking for a student from chemistry or applied chemistry. 

Terms
Start time: January 2024
Scope: 30 hp
Location: Kista
Examiner and KTH supervisor: Prof. Mats Johansson matskg@kth.se – Fiber and Polymer dept.
Institute Supervisors: Stacy Trey, PhD, stacy.trey@ri.se, RISE department of Corrosion, Infrastructure and Energy unit

Welcome with your application!
For questions, please contact Stacy Trey, stacy.trey@ri.se , +46 73 841 6486. Candidates are encouraged to send in their application as soon as possible but at the latest by Jan 5th, 2025. Suitable applicants may be interviewed as soon as applications are received so please don’t hesitate to send in your application.