The assignment
In this assignment, you will study how an Electric Arc Furnace operates in combination with a hydrogen-based Direct Reduced Iron (H₂-DRI) process. You will focus on gaining a better understanding of the EAF’s energy demand and explore opportunities to recover and reuse heat and energy within the process.
You will use Aspen Plus or a similar process simulation tool to build a process model of the EAF. This includes carrying out material and energy balance calculations and studying the fundamentals of steel production, the role of the EAF in modern steelmaking routes, and the thermodynamic and kinetic principles that govern the process. A solid understanding of the reactions inside the furnace is essential for building a reliable simulation model.
An important part of the assignment is to analyze opportunities for heat recovery and process integration. You will investigate how waste heat and excess energy from the process can be reused and how this can help reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. In addition, this assignment is linked to broader research on hydrogen-based iron reduction and Solid Oxide Electrolysis (SOE). You will also explore the interaction between hydrogen production, energy demand, and EAF operation.
This assignment is suitable for students in Chemical Engineering and Chemistry.
To apply, send your Curriculum Vitae and a motivation letter describing your relevant laboratory experience and interest in hydrogen technologies to: az.ali@avans.nl or/and r.mahmoud@avans.nl.
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 carries out practice-oriented research for a sustainable future. Projects are organized around three main themes: transition and value creation, sustainable energy technologies, and biobased and circular materials.
As an intern or graduation student at MNEXT, you will be a full member of a multidisciplinary research team and work on real challenges from professional practice. Every semester, dozens of students do their internship at MNEXT. This means you will not only collaborate on content, but also work alongside many other students and build a valuable network.
You will also automatically take part in an internship program with more than 10 workshops. These workshops strengthen both your research skills and career competences, covering topics such as the use of AI in desktop research, research integrity, professional use of LinkedIn, and coaching to help develop a start-up idea. All students receive an internship allowance of €350 per month.

