Job Materials innovation institute M2i - PhD Researcher (~343b)

Project Description
Metal-polymer laminates of electrolytic chromium coated steel plate (ECCS) are increasingly used for packaging of food and beverages. From a materials point-of-view there are a number of challenges since the polymer coated sheet is subjected to severe loading conditions during forming, e.g. deep-drawing and redrawing (DRD) and wall ironing (DWI). Damage is introduced during production, but also during the subsequent content sterilization procedure and it is obvious that this damage may become apparent during the prolonged shelf-life of the product. The main objective of this project is to improve product reliability using insight in micro-scale deformation mechanisms at the polymer-steel interface and the interplay between micro-deformation and de-adhesion. The microstructural evolution near the interface and its interrelation with the evolution of the interface geometry and interface bonding is key to understand and model the behaviour of the laminates. This project aims to clarify the microscopic processes that determine polymer-metal adhesion during forming. Deformation and delamination processes on multiple scales will be studied numerically and experimentally. To this purpose, the evolution of the interface structure which is related to both substrate roughening and coating deformation, will be investigated. The project is organized in two workpackages. For futher information see vacancy M63.2.09343a

For this project, the PhD candidate should possess a MSc. Degree in Mechnical Engineering with a strong background in computational mechanics and basic knowledge of materials science. Experience in micromechanics and modelling at the microstructure level, cohesive zones and associated microstructural finite element techniques would certainly be an important asset.
Further M2i requirements:
. Interest in applied scientific research,
. Well-developed communicative skills,
. Good proficiency in English (writing and speaking),
. Enthusiasm and team spirit.

When fulfilling a PhD position at M2i, the candidate will be given the status of PhD Researcher. He/she will have employee status and will be eligible for all the employee benefits offered by M2i. The contract is for 4 years. Gross salary for the first year is EUR 2,242 gross per month. This amount increases to EUR 2,587 gross per month in the fourth year. The PhD thesis should be completed at the end of the 4th year term with the M2i. The researcher and the supervisor will draw up a plan for any additional training and supervision that is specifically needed.

The work ing location will be the Technical University of Eindhoven (www.tue.nl).

For more information about M2i, please visit our website: www.m2i.nl