Internship | Mappin the behavior of phase change materials

Come to the forefront of the energy transition by developing novel energy storage material! Accelerate the progress by advancing our understanding of phase change materials. The mismatch between (renewable) energy generation and demand could be resolved by introducing energy storage systems. Industrial waste heat could be revalorized by shifting the supply times to when it’s needed from when it is produced. To do so in a compact form, phase change materials (PCMs) based are being developed. These materials can store thermal energy in the latent heat: charging happens by melting and discharging by solidification. Most of the available PCMs have been developed for low temperature control (300 oC), leaving a gap where a lot of industrial heat is produced. Furthermore, the phase transition behavior of pure phase change materials is often well studied, however the knowledge on mixtures of materials is more limited. The aim of this project is to develop a platform that could predict the behavior of PCM mixtures based on the properties of the pure compounds.

In this project the thermal properties of medium temperature PCMs and their composites will be investigated and compiled. The focus will be on developing a platform that would allow prediction of key properties of phase change materials (energy density, phase transition temperature, heat capacity) of composite material based on earlier published data or own measurements.

The project will consist of three parts:
First you will start with a literature study where you will map out the pre-existing knowledge on medium temperature PCM composites and theories that help describing them.
Second, based on that, you will develop a models or platform (Python, Matlab,…) that allows calculating and predicting properties of PCM composites. Different material families behave in their unique way. Furthermore, new materials are emerging giving possibility of new discoveries and deepening our understanding.
Third, you will validate the numerical models with data provided in the literature or with own measurements. Majority of the work conducted in this project will be theoretical and computational with the possibility of validation through some measurements.

Minimum project duration is 6 months, starting as soon as possible. A more detailed plan will be drafted together with the academic supervisor. At TNO, you will work in the Materials Solutions Department in Eindhoven.

• You are in the final stage of your masters degree.
• A background in physics, chemistry, material science or chemical engineering, or other technical field.
• Good knowledge of programming languages such as Matlab or Python.
• Interest in the energy transition.
• High motivation, with a curious nature and a taste for problem-solving.
• Ability to work autonomously within a small team.
• Good communication skills in English.

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.