Researcher thermoreversible bio-based compatibilizers for plastics recycling

A junior researcher position is available within the framework of an explorative innovative science project in the Processing and Performance of Materials section (Processing and Performance) in the Mechanical Engineering Department at Eindhoven University of Technology. The researcher is expected to perform experimental research.



Annually, within the European Union (EU), approximately 26 million tons of plastic waste is generated. Regrettably, less than 30% of this undergoes recycling. Numerous plastic waste recycling streams encompass a heterogeneous mixture of polyolefins such as polyethylene (PE, most widely used plastic, applications in films, foils, bags, bottles, pipes, insulation) and polypropylene (PP, second most widely used plastic, applications in containers, caps, hinges). Due to their large similarity, it is impossible to fully separate them from each other. The inherent incompatibility between PP and PE prevents the formation of a molecularly mixed system and results in their separation into distinct phases (e.g. droplets in a matrix). This impairs the mechanical properties of recycled PE/PP mixtures, thereby constraining their suitability for high-quality products. To address this issue, a compatibilization approach can be employed, resulting in compatibilized PE-PP blends with a refined microstructure and enhanced mechanical properties. To provide a sustainable approach towards compatibilization, we aim at developing a thermally reversible compatibilizer via reactive extrusion. The generated compatibilizer will be analyzed via FTIR and NMR and subsequently, compatibilized blends will be characterized by means of rheology, mechanical characterization, microscopy imaging and X-ray characterization.

We are looking for:

• Recent graduates with a MSc degree (or equivalent) in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics or a related discipline.
• Creative problem-solving skills and a quick learning ability
• Excellent experimental skills and a keen interest in research
• Knowledge on polymer materials is required, prior experience in experimental rheology, mechanics and/or structure characterization is a plus.
• Excellent team-working skills
• Good English communication skills, both written and oral.

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for one year.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 8 or 9 (min. €3,218 per month).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.
• A state-of-the-art experimental infrastructure and working in an international research team.
• Possibility to participate in high-quality training programs.

About us

Eindhoven University of Technology is an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a top-five position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow. 

The junior researcher will become a member of the Processing and Performance of Materials section in the Mechanical Engineering department at Eindhoven University of Technology. In the Processing and Performance of Materials section, our research is aimed at bridging the gap between science and technology in the area of materials processing and design, through the use of experimental and computational tools in the modeling of the full thermo-mechanical history of material (elements) during their formation, processing and final design, to quantitatively predict properties of processed objects. Extensive state-of-the-art experimental facilities for the characterization of mechanical properties in the liquid (rheology) as well as solid (polymer testing) state, combined with microstructure characterization are available. Many of these devices are developed or modified in-house and are therefore unique. The group employs a full-time technical staff member with ample experience in equipment design and development.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more?
Please contact the hiring manager Prof. Ruth Cardi, R.M.Cardinaels@tue.nl or
+31 40 247 4262.

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Application

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including an overview of your relevant experimental experience.
• Contact information of two references.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.