IfT’s mission is to understand thermal energy conversion, storage, transport and interaction from the molecular to the system level is the key for developing and improving energy efficient thermal systems.

Molecular Simulation of Thermophysical Properties

The research on molecular modelling and simulation at IfT Braunschweig is aiming to provide reliable predictions on thermophysical properties of poorly known compounds, and to gain a molecular level understanding of these properties. The studies cover various components such as novel working fluids for refrigeration and thermal systems, refrigerant-oil mixtures, ionic liquids, or drug candidates.  

Dynamic System Simulation

High performance analysis, optimization and control of thermal systems, such as automotive thermal management systems, fuel cell systems, power plants or industrial processes. Working on international standards for the interoperability of different languages and simulators. Refrigeration Components and Systems: Experimental investigation of refrigeration components (compressor, heat exchanger, expansion device, accumulator, natural and synthetic refrigerants with special emphasis on R744, refrigerant-oil mixtures) and systems (mobile HVAC and heat pumps, household, residential heat supply). Design and layout of test rigs. Development of complex control strategies. System analysis (measurement and simulation).  

Thermal Heat Engines with Waste Heat Recovery (ORC), Fuel Cells, Batteries, Photovoltaic and Thermoelectric Systems

Fluxes of matter, heat and electricity can occur parallel, interact, and affect together energy conversion and storage. This is investigated with a special focus on system integration, transient behaviour, and energy efficiency.