Master's Thesis: Chip-Level Aluminium Electroplating from Ionic Liquids

The Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nanosystems ENAS specializes in the development of smart systems – so-called intelligent systems for a wide range of applications. These systems combine electronic components, micro- and nanosensors, and actuators with communication interfaces. Fraunhofer ENAS develops individual components, the technologies for their manufacture, as well as system concepts and system integration technologies, and translates them into practical applications. Fraunhofer ENAS supports customer projects from the initial idea through design, technology development, or implementation using existing technologies, all the way to a tested prototype.

We are offering the opportunity for a six-month Master’s Thesis on aluminum electroplating using ionic liquids (ILs), combined with a paid position as a student assistant. A particular focus of this project is on chip-level electrochemical deposition.

Be part of change

The project aims to investigate the additives using 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium and aluminium chloride in a 1.0:1.5 molar ratio. The influence of ethylene glycol (C₂H₆O₂) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as electrolyte/additive components will be investigated with respect to the electrochemical behaviour and resulting aluminium deposition.

The main objective of the thesis is to investigate and optimize aluminium electroplating on the chip level using the [EMIm]Cl/AlCl₃ ionic-liquid system and to determine how the addition of ethylene glycol and PVP affects the electrochemical deposition process and the quality of the deposited metal layer. The work will include both quantitative electrochemical investigations at the chip level and a qualitative evaluation of the plating behaviour at the beaker level.

You will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Investigation of the influence of ethylene glycol and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) on the electrolyte and electrodeposition process
• Development and execution of chip-level aluminium electroplating experiments
• Use of a potentiostat / galvanostat for electrochemical characterization and process development
• Performing electrochemical measurements such as: Cyclic voltammetry (CV), potential / current-controlled deposition experiments, where appropriate, pulse-plating investigations
• Investigation of deposition parameters such as potential, current density, deposition time and additive concentration
• Investigation of the influence of the electrolyte/additives on deposition quality, morphology, uniformity and adhesion
• Systematic documentation and evaluation of experimental results
• Preparation of presentations and regular PPT documentation of the experimental work, results and conclusions

What you contribute

• Enrolled student in Chemnitz, Mittweida, Freiberg, Dresden, or the surrounding area
• Your average grade is 2.0 or better.
• You are studying chemistry, electrochemistry, materials science, surface engineering, microsystems engineering, or a comparable field of study
• Basic knowledge of chemistry as well as a basic understanding of metal deposition and electroplating
• Interest in investigating chemical reactions and the behavior of electrolytes
• You are enthusiastic about hands-on laboratory work
• Good skills in documenting and evaluating experiments
• You are known for your ability to work independently, and you are communicative and a team player
• You have a good German and English language skills

What we offer

• An exciting and hands-on Master’s Thesis in the field of electrochemistry and microelectronics
• A paid student assistant position during your Master’s Thesis
• An open, collaborative team and a modern lab environment
• Professional guidance and a diverse range of tasks
• Flexible working hours that allow you to optimally balance your studies with practical work

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities. 

The weekly work hours are to be agreed upon on an individual basis and may not exceed 20 hours per week for student assistants. Remuneration according to the general works agreement for employing assistant staff. 

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future. 

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference!

Please enclose a brief cover letter, your CV, a current overview of your grades and your certificates with your application.

Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

 

Please address any questions you may have to
Michaela Baum
E-mail: [email protected]
 
For data protection reasons, we can only consider applications via our career portal - thank you.

Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nano Systems ENAS 

www.enas.fraunhofer.de 

Requisition Number: 85415                Application Deadline: