The Assignment
The main goal of your graduation internship is the chemical recycling of phenol-formaldehyde foam using solvolysis. You will investigate how to break down PF foam and recover valuable components from thermosetting waste.
You will start with an exploratory literature study into various solvolysis methods that may be relevant for PF. Based on this, you will design and conduct practical experiments to test and compare different solvolysis routes. You will get to work testing solvents and optimizing reaction conditions so that you gain a better understanding of the circumstances under which PF foam can be effectively broken down.
You will characterize the thermoset and the degradation products using techniques such as TGA, FTIR, HPLC-DAD, and GC-MS/FID. Based on these results, you will relate practical experiments back to theory and literature and draw conclusions regarding the most promising solvolysis approach. You can apply by sending an email to Viktor van Mun (vfg.vanmun@avans.nl). Please preferably include your CV and a short cover letter.
About MNEXT
MNEXT is the Centre of Expertise for the materials and energy transition. Together with companies, governments, researchers, and students, MNEXT bridges the gap between innovation and society and works on practice-oriented research for a sustainable future. Projects fall within three main themes: transition and value creation, sustainable energy technologies, and biobased and circular materials (mnext.nl).
As an intern or graduating student, you will participate fully in a multidisciplinary research team and work on real-world issues. Between 40 and 50 students intern at MNEXT every semester, allowing you to collaborate intensively with other students, build a large network, and make many social contacts.
In addition, you automatically participate in an internship program featuring more than 10 workshops, in which you strengthen both your research skills and your career competencies. Think of sessions on the use of AI in desk research, research integrity, professional use of LinkedIn, and coaching to advance a start-up idea. For your efforts, you will receive an internship allowance of €350 per month.