The following bilateral research project between BASF, the TU Delft, and Utrecht University has been defined within the ARC-CBBC consortium.

EXPLORATION OF NON-COMMODITY ZEOLITE FRAMEWORKS FOR SMALL MOLECULE ACTIVATION: ACIDITY, REACTIVITY AND COKE FORMATION

Zeolites are widely used solid catalysts. Although there are more than 235 zeolite frameworks reported, almost all zeolite-based catalytic processes are performed by a limited number of frameworks. These are the so-called Big Five: FAU, MFI, FER, MOR and BEA. More recently, SAPO-34 and SSZ-13 with the CHA structure became important catalysts in e.g. the methanol-to-hydrocarbon process and selective catalytic reduction of NOx.

Since the industry wishes to develop more sustainable conversion processes, it is crucial to explore the properties of less conventional zeolite frameworks. In this research project, several non-commodity zeolite framework structures are investigated as examples of small molecule activation processes. To gather detailed physicochemical insights into these materials, a wide variety of bulk and local characterisation methods will be used, while their performance is studied in the methanol-to-olefins (MTO) process as showcase. The latter allows making comparisons with current MTO catalysts.

Applicants should have the following qualifications:
• MSc degree in Chemical Engineering or the equivalent
• Experience in applied heterogeneous catalysis is essential
• Expertise in zeolites and modelling is recommended
• Good command of English.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

The 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 child care 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.
As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit graduateschool.tudelft.nl/ for more information.

For more information about this position, please contact Prof. F. Kapteijn, phone: +31 (0)15-2784384, e-mail: f.kapteijn@tudelft.nl. To apply, please e-mail a detailed CV (including list of grades) and the names and contact details of two references along with a letter of application by 1 March 2018 to Els Arkesteijn, e.m.p.arkesteijn@tudelft.nl.
When applying for this position, please refer to vacancy number TNWCE18-005.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (the 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. The TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At the TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. The TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

http://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 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.

The Catalysis Engineering (CE) and the Inorganic Systems Engineering (ISE) teams, operating within the Chemical Engineering Department (ChemE), focus on novel concepts in the application of catalysis, featuring the use of advanced, structured (multi)functional materials, such as metal-organic frameworks and zeolites and the inorganic chemistry for catalysis and functional materials. The combination of catalysis and engineering allows the rational design of efficient processes and new products.

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