This PhD research will focus on investigating inorganic phase change materials for seasonal thermal storage. In the European Union, household heating accounts for about 30% of the all energy consumed and most of that energy is still generated by burning coal, oil or gas. Seasonal thermal storage is one of the most promising ways to drastically reduce energy consumption for heating and therefore CO2 output.



For a large scale application in the build environment these phase change materials have to be safe, available in large quantities and sustainable, which makes inorganic salt hydrates the ideal candidates. However, there are still many open questions regarding their durability and sustainability: What is the most efficient material? Which one is the most durable and can undergo the most heating/cooling cycles? What strategies can be used to improve durability? What is the most sustainable source for the salts?



This research will try to answer these questions by studying the physical and chemical properties of inorganic salt hydrates and pay special attention to materials produced as a byproduct of other industrial processes. This PhD is a chance to combine fundamental and applied material research that could have a significant impact on reducing CO2 emissions.



The Building Materials group contains 21 PhDs, 2 postdocs, 3 assistant professors, 1 associate professor and 1 full professor who all work on new, sustainable materials containing or synthesised from secondary raw materials with good chemical, physical and aesthetic properties and added functionalities. Examples are fly ashes, nano-silica, aerogels, slags, agricultural and industrial wastes or recycled aggregates. Functionality is introduced by incorporating photocatalytic powder or phase changing materials for example



The research group possesses an excellent well-equipped and -staffed building material laboratory for physical/chemical/mechanical/environmental testing. It has close contacts with the building material industry and is frequently cooperating with other researchers, both domestic and abroad.

We are looking for excellent and highly motivated candidates with a MSc degree in a field related to materials, such as civil/mechanical/chemical engineering, earth sciences, physics, chemistry, or similar disciplines with an interest in physical/chemical processes and thermodynamics. You should be able to work independently, have strong communication skills and the attitude to participate successfully in an international and multidisciplinary team.



Any of the following could be considered an advantage and should be mentioned in the motivation letter:

• Familiarity with analytical characterization techniques (such as any of: XFR, XRD, FTIR, TG/DSC, SEM, IC, ICP or related techniques);
• Affinity/experience with inorganic materials and/or laboratory experience
• Modelling techniques/software.

A sufficient English language level, both written and spoken, is required. Proofs of English level (such as certificates, coursework followed in English, manuscripts written in English etc.) should be mentioned if



Candidates who already hold the title of PhD/Doctor will not be considered for the current vacancy.

We offer you:

• An exciting job in a dynamic work environment.
• The possibility to present your work at international conferences.
• A full time appointment for four years at Eindhoven University of Technology (www.tue.nl/en).
• The salary is in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement of the Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2,325 per month initially, to € 2,972 in the fourth year.
• An attractive package of fringe benefits, including end-of-year bonus (8,3% in December), an extra holiday allowance (8% in May), moving expenses and excellent sports facilities.