The RSM warmly congratulates Adrian Breicher and Konrad Koschnick on the successful completion of their doctoral degrees on March 23, 2026. Both are part of the RSM collaboration at TU Darmstadt with ODEE at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences.

In his doctoral thesis, Adrian Breicher examined the topic “Investigation of the transport-chemistry interaction in premixed methane/hydrogen flames.” This work explores how flow and chemistry interact in gas-turbine-relevant methane and hydrogen flames, with the goal of improving flame stabilization and predicting combustion behavior under realistic conditions. Turbulent methane and hydrogen flames are investigated near technical operating limits, as well as laminar hydrogen/methane flames to better understand thermodiffusive effects and flame-front structure. Using laser diagnostics such as PIV and OH-/SO₂-PLIF, velocity fields and reaction zones were captured in detail and built new experimental datasets for both laminar and turbulent combustion. The results show how recirculation, turbulence, and local flame curvature shape stabilization and reaction rates in CH₄ and H₂ flames. By improving our understanding of transport–chemistry interaction, this work supports the development of cleaner, hydrogen-capable combustion systems and contributes to the transition toward lower-emission energy technologies.

In his dissertation titled Spectroscopy for Thermochemical Gas-Phase Analysis in Heterogeneous Catalysis, Konrad Koschnick investigated how Raman spectroscopy can be used to better understand catalytic reactions that are important for more sustainable chemical processes. The work focused on measuring gas composition and temperature directly above catalyst surfaces without disturbing the reaction itself. For this purpose, a new Raman-based measurement platform was developed that combined advanced spectroscopy, reactor technology, and data analysis. This made it possible to visualize how gases and temperature changed locally during a reaction with very high spatial and temporal resolution. The results helped reveal where unwanted by-products formed and how transport processes influenced catalytic performance. Overall, the dissertation provided new tools for studying and improving catalytic processes relevant to a more sustainable chemical industry.

We once again extend our sincere congratulations to both graduates on this important achievement and wish them all the best and continued success in their future scientific and professional careers.