In the short term, carbon dioxide (CO2) capture and storage (CCS) is absolutely crucial to meet climate goals. The captured CO2 needs to be compressed and transported through pipelines to the storage site. Typical conditions are pressures between 25 and 100 bar, and temperatures between -50°C and 40°C. A safe design and operation of these pipelines require a proper understanding of the thermodynamics and flow of CO2 at different pressures, temperatures, and impurity levels. The purity of CO2 depends on the capture source which includes impurities such as H2, CO, N2, NOx, SOx, H2S, H2O, Ar, etc. These impurities can have a large influence on the flow behavior of CO2 at high pressures, and a fundamental understanding of the thermodynamic properties of these systems is absolutely crucial. Many different phenomena (expansion or mixing, vapor formation and collapse, fluid hammering, etc.) in CO2 transportation systems are governed by transient effects, which are difficult to describe with equilibrium-based models. These kinds of phenomena may occur during start-up, shut-down, depressurization, blowdown, emptying, and filling of pipelines and vessels or during well injection, and are extremely important for a safe design and operation of these systems.

In this PhD research, you will investigate the equilibrium and nonequilibrium properties of CO2 streams with impurities using computer simulation techniques. The models calibrated on experimental and simulation data can be combined with flow equations to accurately describe CO2 transportation in pipelines and to avoid 2-phase regimes. Ultimately, this research should lead to a better design of CO2 transportation pipelines including flow assurance, safety, pipeline integrity, and cost aspects.The project is a part of a large EU projects on CCS-related research. The PhD student is expected to participate in this project consortium. 

We seek a self-motivated conscientious researcher (f/m/x) with good communication and self-management skills. The successful candidate holds a MSc degree in mechanical engineering, applied physics, computer science, chemical engineering or a similar degree. Basic knowledge on molecular simulation is a plus but it is not stricktly required. The TU Delft is an equal opportunity employer, and therefore we strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. 

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2541 per month in the first year to € 3247 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 as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The Faculty of 3mE carries out pioneering research, leading to new fundamental insights and challenging applications in the field of mechanical engineering. From large-scale energy storage, medical instruments, control technology and robotics to smart materials, nanoscale structures and autonomous ships. The foundations and results of this research are reflected in outstanding, contemporary education, inspiring students and PhD candidates to become socially engaged and responsible engineers and scientists. The faculty of 3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with an international scope and high-tech lab facilities. Research and education focus on the design, manufacture, application and modification of products, materials, processes and mechanical devices, contributing to the development and growth of a sustainable society, as well as prosperity and welfare.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? These videos will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.