PhD opportunities

(SUBJECT CLOSE) Experimental investigation and modeling of tribological phenomena (wear and friction) under pressurized H2g ambient

Thesis proposal

Area of expertiseMécanique
Doctoral SchoolISMME - Ingénierie des Systèmes, Matériaux, Mécanique, Énergétique
SupervisorMADI Yazid
Research unitCentre des Matériaux
KeywordsTribology, Hydrogen, Wear, Friction, Ti-6Al-4V, 316L
AbstractThe transition to using hydrogen as an energy carrier for heavy transportation is a major challenge in the field of ecological transition. However, gaseous hydrogen can have a negative effect on metallic materials by reducing their strength and fatigue endurance. Currently, numerous research efforts are being conducted to study the cracking phenomena of static components, such as pipelines and tanks, under the influence of gaseous hydrogen [1-4]. Various projects, such as the industrial chair 'Messiah' at CDM, as well as the 'Decarbonized Hydrogen PEPR' project managed by CEA and CNRS, contribute to these research works in France. However, it is also necessary to address the issues related to friction, wear, and spalling of components subjected to alternate sliding in gaseous hydrogen environments. Unfortunately, there is limited research on these specific aspects under high-pressure gaseous hydrogen. The current research in this field primarily focuses on the United States and Japan [5-6]. The objective of this thesis is therefore to fill this gap by studying the friction, wear, and spalling phenomena of components subjected to tribological loading in gaseous hydrogen atmospheres. By addressing this societal challenge, this thesis aims to position CDM as a leader in this issue in France, and potentially in Europe.
Research Topic
The Materials Center possesses a high-pressure H2g enclosure developed as part of the Messiah project, mounted on an MTS hydraulic bench, allowing for mechanical tests such as toughness and fatigue. The objective of this thesis is to develop, as a proof of concept, a tribological test bench that can be directly integrated into the H2g enclosure in collaboration with LTDS and the SESAME platform of CDM. This miniaturized setup will enable the study of friction, wear, and the detection of seizure phenomena. It is optimized for the study of friction, wear, fretting crack formation, and fretting fatigue. An important aspect of the development will be the measurement of the coefficient of friction. It will eventually require adapting a field measurement technique to locally identify sliding zones at the interface.
ProfileEngineer and / or Master of Science - Good level of general and scientific culture. Good level of knowledge of French (B2 level in french is required) and English. (B2 level in english is required) Good analytical, synthesis, innovation and communication skills. Qualities of adaptability and creativity. Teaching skills. Motivation for research activity. Coherent professional project.

Prerequisite (specific skills for this thesis):



Applicants should supply the following :
• a detailed resume
• a copy of the identity card or passport
• a covering letter explaining the applicant's motivation for the position
• detailed exam results
• two references : the name and contact details of at least two people who could be contacted
• to provide an appreciation of the candidate
• Your notes of M1, M2
• level of English equivalent TOEIC
to be sent to recrutement_these@mat.mines-paris
FundingConcours pour un contrat doctoral