Enhancement of Condensation Heat Transfer for Low-Temperature Vapor Generated by Solar Evaporation

Institute

Lehrstuhl für Thermodynamik (TUM-ED)

Type

Master's Thesis /

Content

 

Description

We are looking for a motivated Master’s student to work on the enhancement of condensation performance for low-temperature vapor generated through solar-driven evaporation systems. The project aims to improve water harvesting and thermal energy recovery by tailoring advanced condensation surfaces and optimizing vapor transport processes.

The research focuses on understanding the interaction between low-temperature water vapor and engineered condensing surfaces, including hydrophilic/hydrophobic coatings, micro-/nano-structured interfaces, and heat transfer enhancement strategies. Applications include solar desalination, atmospheric water harvesting, wastewater treatment, and sustainable thermal management.

Key tasks include designing and conducting experiments on solar evaporation and vapor condensation, characterizing condensation behavior using thermal measurement techniques, and evaluating system efficiency under various operating conditions.

This thesis offers hands-on experience at the interface of heat and mass transfer, surface engineering, and renewable energy technologies, with the opportunity to contribute to next-generation sustainable water and energy systems.

Requirements

• Strong interest in thermal engineering, heat and mass transfer, and renewable energy systems
• Background in mechanical engineering, energy engineering, materials science, or related disciplines
• Familiarity with experimental methods and data analysis
• Experience with thermal characterization, optical imaging, or surface characterization techniques is beneficial

Possible start

immediately

Contact

Dr.-Ing. Xiaolong Ma
Room: 5507.EG.733
Phone: +49 89 289 16261
x.matum.de