The ever increasing effects of climate change and (as a result) the imposition of environmental regulations to reduce CO2 emissions, encourage researchers in various disciplines (e.g. civil, aerospace, automotive, and marine engineering) to utilize more environmentally friendly materials in their structures. This entails materials which are either more light-weight, reusable, recyclable, renewable or durable and thus more sustainable. Some examples of such (partially) bio-based materials include bio-based adhesives for bonding, natural fibre polymer composites, bio-based resins, and wood.  Applications for these materials include bridges, interiors of aircraft, automotive panels, wind turbines, and wooden highrise buildings.

The current scientific knowledge on long-term performance and service life of bio-based composites when subjected to different service conditions and environments is limited. Hence, this research aims at making a contribution to the understanding of different ageing mechanisms (physical/chemical/mechanical) in bio-based composites at the different levels of material hierarchy (micro, meso, and macro), when undergoing an accelerated ageing procedure.

In particular, this PhD research focuses on understanding the hygrothermal fatigue behaviour of bio-based composite materials e.g. flax fibre reinforced polymers, based on which mitigation measures can be proposed and evaluated. The study will include effects of hygrothermal fatigue on material microstructure, benchmarking against better known existing materials (like glass-fibre composites) and the realistic definition of accelerated lab test conditions to allow predictions of service life. For this, hygrothermal cycling has to be matched with fatigue cycling in a realistic manner in the lab. Behaviour will be contrasted with fatigue and hygrothermal ageing when decoupled. Existing models for the fatigue behaviour of composite materials will be adapted to include the effects of hygrothermal cycling.

This PhD position will be within the research group of ‘’Bio-based structures and materials’’ of the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences of TU Delft and the PhD research will be performed in close collaboration with the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering of TU Delft. The experiments will be carried out in the laboratories of both faculties.

We are looking for a motivated PhD candidate, with excellent qualifications that is eager to make a positive change.

For this position, the following are required:

• MSc degree, or equivalent, in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, materials engineering, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated laboratory experience with mechanical/physical characterisation of materials and structures.
• Experience with manufacturing/characterisation methods of polymer (thermoplastic/thermoset) composites, particularly fatigue experiments is appreciated.
• Excellent spoken and written English.
• If your native language is not English and you do not hold a degree from an institution in which English is the language of instruction, you must submit proof of English proficiency from either TOEFL (minimum total score of 100) or IELTS (minimum total score of 7.0).
• A creative and curious mind set, courageous to take initiative or think outside of the box/norm/ordinary routes.
• Open to communicate, with the ability to work both independently and in a team.
• Result oriented with excellent analytical thinking.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers PhD-candidates a 4-year contract, with an official go/no go progress assessment after one year. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2434 per month in the first year to € 3111 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Civil Engineering & Geosciences

The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource depletion, urbanisation and the availability of clean water, conducted  in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced that Open Science helps to achieve our goals and supports its scientists in integrating Open Science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.