Placement Information

Year you started your placement
2013

Placement period
May – August, September – December

Supervisor’s name
Marc Armbruester

Project Details

Overview
My team’s work mostly involves exploring different intermetallic compounds in hopes of finding a more efficient catalyst for many chemical reactions required in the industry today. Many different intermetallic compounds are currently being researched by the team, in different stages of research from synthesis to catalytic testing.
My work is mostly associated with synthesis of single-phased intermetallic compounds.

Project objectives
My specific goal is to synthesize single-phase of three different intermetallic compounds: AlPd, MgPd, and AlPd2.

It is often very hard to achieve and single-phase product since the products that I want reside in a very delicate zone in a phase diagram, where even small difference in conditions in the synthesis can produce a very different compound.

One has to be well aware of the phase diagram of the intermetallic compound you want, and adjust its composition, annealing temperature, annealing conditions, and many other factors carefully in order to produce only the product you want, without any mixture.

Just one set of experiment can take up to 6 weeks, while it is quite common that something will go wrong during the experiment and I will often have to start from the beginning. Even when the experiment goes smoothly, there is no guarantee that your experiment will be successful. Therefore, it requires much patience and lots of tries before you can be successful.

Research outcomes
Three intermetallic compounds are currently allotted to me: AlPd, MgPd, and AlPd2

As for AlPd, a nearly single phased product was achieved. It is now being tested of different compositions and methods.

MgPd single phase synthesis has been successful, and is now being tested of its reproducibility.

AlPd2 is a new project, and is being explored of different regions of its phase diagram.

Project status
Completed

Presentation 1
Presentation 2
Final Report

My Co-op Experience at MPI

Why did you apply for a placement with Max Planck Institute?
Max Planck Institute is a world famous research laboratory for its achievements and progresses in natural sciences. I thought that I would certainly be able to learn and experience many different aspects of chemistry with some of the best researchers on the field. Also, I knew this opportunity would allow me to experience different cultures, and see different parts of the world.

What recommendations do you have for students who wish to participate in MPI-UBC exchange program?
It could be an asset to learn the German language before you come here, but there are also classes offered for visitors. You can learn a lot about their culture just from learning the languages.

Make lots of friends by attending to different events, and be part of a social group! There are always barbeques, parties, and social gatherings if you actively look for these. There are always people around who will definitely help you to adapt quicker to the new environment, and make the most out of your coop experience.

Also travel! You are given an wonderful opportunity to work and get paid in Europe! Use the time and money you are given to see the rich history and cultures of not only Germany but other countries. (try to use the Germany national holidays to make your trip!)

Tell us about your travels and cultural experiences in Germany and the rest of the Europe
During the 6 months I have stayed in Germany so far, I was able to travel to 7 countries and about 20 cities.
I have visited London to see where industrial revolution took place and how England came to be the biggest empire on earth,
I have visited Rome to experience the thousands of years of history and where all the European cultures began,
I have visited Prague and saw medieval buildings and architectures,
and I have visited Switzerland and was overwhelmed by the great natural beauty of rugged mountains, beautiful fields, and people residing in harmony with nature.

These are kind of experiences one never forgets, and I am really grateful that coop in MPI has made this happen.