The project focuses on understanding the physico-chemical interactions during Enhanced oil recovery processes. Surfactant/Polymer flooding is one of the mechanisms used to enhance oil recovery from the oil reservoirs. Surfactants mainly reduce the oil-water interfacial tension, thus increase oil mobility and allow better displacement of oil by injected water. On the other hand, polymers mainly increase the viscosity of the injected water, resulting in a stabilized flood front and improved sweep. One of the main drawbacks in these processes is the loss of surfactants and polymers (due to adsorption) to reservoir rocks. Therefore, there is a need to understand the reasons behind this loss and thus increase the economic value.

The postdoctoral candidate will perform systematic experiments to understand the interaction of the solution cocktail (solvent-ions, surfactants and polymers) with various rock surfaces. Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) and Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) will be used at high pressure high temperature (HPHT) conditions as the analytical tools for our investigation. The adsorption will be studied at various brine conditions. The research is performed in close collaboration with Shell, Amsterdam.

We are looking for excellent candidates with the following qualifications:

• PhD degree in Chemical Engineering/ applied physics/ chemistry or a closely related field.

• Strong background in surfactants and polymers.

• Significant experience in experimental techniques, e.g. AFM, QCM, SEM(-EDX), light microscopies.

• Experience with sample preparation techniques for microscopy.

• Previous experience with force spectroscopy using AFM and/or knowledge of Enhanced oil recovery processes would be advantageous.

• Prepare scientific papers and conference communications.

• Good communication skills and the ability to work in a team are essential.

Fixed-term contract: 2 years.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

https://www.tudelft.nl

Faculty Applied Sciences

The Faculty of Applied Sciences is the largest faculty of TU Delft, with around 550 scientists, a support staff of 250 and 1,800 students. The faculty conducts fundamental, application-oriented research and offers scientific education at the bachelor, master and doctoral levels. The faculty is active in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Applied Physics.

The Department of Chemical Engineering (www.cheme.tudelft.nl) promotes the pursuit and dissemination of knowledge in chemical engineering, with a focus on materials for energy and health applications. We aspire to improve the quality of life in a sustainable society through discovery and innovation, the quality of life of our graduates through inspiration and teaching, and the quality of life of our peers through collaboration and exchange. With a proud heritage in chemical engineering, the department seeks to break new ground in areas where molecular understanding and engineering design meet.

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/faculty-of-applied-sciences