Thermodynamics is the science of energy conversion. Competence in thermodynamics is necessary to understand the working principles of renewable energy technologies, on the macro- as well as on the nano-scale. The second law of thermodynamics is an important basis, as it determines the maximum efficiency that can be achieved. Knowledge of the properties of fluids are then required, such as the relationship between density, pressure and internal energy. Thermodynamics is at the core of most higher-level descriptions and models of energy conversion. 

The Thermodynamics research group has a broad portfolio of activities within equilibrium and non-equilibrium thermodynamics. We combine experiments, theory and molecular simulations to address a variety of scientific and industrially relevant challenges, where sustainability and development of fundamental knowledge are important keywords. 

The group develops equations of state and mixing models, both for engineering and other applications on the macroscale as well as for the nanoscale. Important tools are statistical mechanics and molecular simulations. By combining equations of state with phase equilibrium calculations, we study the phase diagrams of fluid mixtures and solids. We are especially interested in fluids relevant for the hydrogen society and for carbon capture, transport and storage.  

The group works extensively with heterogeneous systems such as interfaces, thin films and adsorbed phases, with emphasis on their role in porous media transport. Both their equilibrium properties (surface tension, disjoining pressure, Tolman lengths) and nonequilibrium properties (Kapitza resistance, interface transfer coefficients, etc.) are of interest. We develop fundamental models for these properties and incorporate them into processes of relevance. A goal is to exploit this knowledge to enhance the understanding of two-phase flow through porous media in PoreLab, a centre of excellence at NTNU and the University of Oslo. 

The group is concerned with the mechanisms behind conversion of energy and aim to help utilize existing and new sources of energy in an efficient manner. With limited resources available in the world, it is important to quantify dissipation of useful work (exergy, entropy production). We work to improve the energy efficiency of fuel cells, renewable energy technologies, batteries and other technologies that utilize waste heat, solar heat, or limited resources by use of thermoelectricity, thermo-osmosis, and salt power plants. In many of these applications, transport in porous media is central. 

Research Areas 

• Equations of state and phase equilibria for bulk and nanoscopic systems.  
• Equilibrium and non-equilibrium thermodynamics of heterogeneous systems.  
• Equilibrium and non-equilibrium thermodynamics of porous media 
• Exergy, minimum entropy production and lost work 
• The use of coupled transport phenomena in renewable energy technologies  

Contact 

For collaboration related to the topics described above or other topics within equilibrium and non-equilibrium thermodynamics, please be in touch. 

For students 

Students that graduate from the group acquire a strong basis in thermodynamics. For this reason, they are attractive candidates for jobs in academia, research institutes and in the industry. Some of our graduates pursue a PhD, others are recruited from SINTEF or from energy and software development companies, where they work in leading positions, as engineers or as researchers. 

The group offers a wide selection of Msc. projects within experiments, simulations, and theory development. Since the projects are closely linked to ongoing research-activities and will be tailored to suit the competence and interest of the student, we recommend interested students to contact group members to find a suitable project.   

The Master of Science in Chemistry programme offered by the Department of Chemistry provides an opportunity to specialize in thermodynamics, with courses and projects related to the group’s research topics. Also, students from other Departments pursue a Msc. or PhD in the group.