Internship | Materials and interfaces study for the recycling of solar panels

The topic is recycling of photovoltaic (PV) modules. A PV module is a stack made up of the PV material (as well as metallisation, connections etc), encapsulated with polymer or glass sheets on both sides. Since PV modules contain both valuable and toxic elements and material scarcity is an important challenge, developing efficient recycling processes is becoming absolutely essential in a context where the installed PV capacity is exponentially increasing and a very large amount of PV modules will reach their end of life in the near future. In this context, we are looking into ways in which the module can be opened up and the valuable PV material accessed, in a clean and cost-efficient way, to facilitate the next recycling steps.

We are developing a method based on light to delaminate the front or back sheet, in order to target specific interfaces based on their light absorption properties. We have already achieved promising results in this direction, but there is still room to make this into a truly universal and scalable process. The activities will include designing a characterisation protocol and applying it to study the effect of various physical, chemical and mechanical treatments on the different materials and interfaces composing the PV cells. Our standard equipment includes SEM/EDS, optical and confocal microscopy and profilometry, but we can also access other cutting edge characterisation equipment for more in-depth investigations. The work is divided between hands-on experiments and data analysis/interpretation. The ratio between experiments and analysis can be tuned, to some extent, to the candidate’s abilities/preferences.

The research will take place at TNO on the High Tech Campus in Eindhoven.

• A background education in materials science, chemistry or physics;
• A multi-disciplinary approach to problem solving;
• Good team-working skills;
• Minimum of 6 months availability.

The work is divided between hands-on experiments and data analysis/interpretation. The ratio between experiments and analysis can be tuned, to some extent, to the candidate’s abilities/preferences. The research will take place at TNO on the High Tech Campus in Eindhoven.

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

Important to be aware of before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed. For students at a college or university based in the Netherlands, TNO uses the UNL-template (supplemented with a number of specific agreements from TNO). For students of foreign and MBO educational institutions, the TNO internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign any other internship agreements.
• Before the start of the internship, the educational institution will need to confirm in writing that:
  • 1) you are enrolled at the educational institution during the internship, and;
  • 2) the internship takes place as part of the programme of the study.
• The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. Performance of internship activities from abroad is not possible.