PhD position:Bioelectrochemical processes for the valorization of organic wastes: investigation and optimization of the transfer through ion exchange membranes

• Starting date: 1st October 2024
• Contract duration: 3 years
• Funding: INP Toulouse (B-BEST PEPR)
• Doctoral school: Mécanique, énergétique, génie civil, procédés (MEGEP)
• Keywords: Bioelectrochemical systems, mass transfer, carboxylates, ion-exchange membranes

This thesis project is part of the PEPR program (PEPR B-Best) supporting the French strategy in terms of “biobased products, industrial biotechnologies, sustainable fuels”. It aims at focusing research and innovation efforts on the challenges linked with the biomass conversion into biobased products to support the transition to a sustainable and circular bioeconomy.

Previous investigations have successfully developed an electrochemical microbial technology using two compartments separating the biowaste oxidation taking place at the anode from the synthesis of bioproducts, like carbohydrates for instance, taking place at the cathode. The objective of the project is to design and study a microbial electrolysis cell integrating an additional central compartment in order to produce molecules of higher added value, thanks to the biological conversion of carboxylates transferred from the cathodic towards the central compartment.

This thesis will be focused on the study of the transfer of solutes though ion exchange membranes used to separate the different compartments of the electrolytic cell. The mechanisms governing the transfer of carboxylates will be investigated in order to control the bioconversion step into higher added value compounds so as to optimize the overall performances of the process.

The thesis work, mainly experimental, will be performed in several steps. Firstly, the impact of operating conditions (composition in the cathode compartment, pH, presence of mineral ions and micro-organisms, current, etc.) and ion exchange membranes on the transfer of carboxylates will be assessed. Secondly, the transfer will be optimized by considering the reaction mechanisms involved at the bio-cathode.  Thus, part of the research work will be carried out in collaboration with other partners involved in the PEPR"ElectroMic" project, who are investigating bio-electrochemical systems based on the development of electro-active microbial biofilms on the surface of electrodes.

Application: To apply for this position, please send a cover letter and a detailed CV to the contact below :

Sylvain Galier, Associate Professor, sylvain.galier@univ-tlse3.fr