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Coil-coated systems (sheet material with a coating applied afterwards) are increasingly being used in especially: applications in the automotive, the white good industry and in architectural applications. The cost advantage compared to post coating of appliances is very large. A zinc layer on top of the steel sheet is often used to improve the corrosion resistance. Adhesion of coatings to galvanized steel is very relevant for durability of the products. The urgency for developing better systems is high due to recent stringent legislation which prohibits further use of Cr VI on the one hand and on the other hand puts a higher emphasis on sustainable materials solutions.

The project aims are:
•Identification of the type and composition of (hydr)oxides and carbonates on various zinc surfaces (e.g. hot dip galvanized, galvanneal and galvalume) after different treatments. This is the starting point for a study of the adhesive properties of these surfaces using model compounds.
•This information is a basis to the final goal, which is the improvement of the bonding strength and stability of practical coatings.

The PhD researcher will study the adhesion of organic coatings to various types of galvanized steel. Both a fundamental investigation at the molecular level using model molecules simulating the functional groups of organic coatings, and a macroscopic view on adhesive properties will be part of the project. A combination of electrochemical, optical (FTIR) and surface analysis techniques (a full range is available) will be used.

The work will be carried out in close co-operation with our Industrial partner, Corus. The PhD Researcher will have a unique opportunity and should be comfortable to work and interact with a multi-disciplinary team of researchers consisting of physicists, chemical, and mechanical engineers on a regular basis, within both industry and academia.

The PhD candidate should have:
•a Master’s degree in Materials Science, Chemistry or Physics;
•a firm background in metallurgy, surface and interface characterization and affinity with polymer chemistry is favorable;
•relevant experimental skills in surface and interface characterization, preferably in relation with polymer/metal chemistry, corrosion technology and/or electrochemistry;
•good written and oral communication skills in English.
The vacancy is located at Delft University of Technology and the PhD Researcher will obtain a doctorate degree awarded by Delft University of Technology.

Additional information about the job:
When fulfilling a PhD position at the M2i, the candidate will be given the status of PhD Researcher. He/she will have employee status and will be eligible for all the employee benefits offered by the M2i. The contract is for 4 years. Gross salary for the first year is EUR 2,195 gross per month. This amount increases to EUR 2,533 gross per month in the fourth year. The PhD thesis should be completed at the end of the 4th year term with the M2i. A training program is part of the agreement. The researcher and the supervisor will draw up a plan for any additional training and supervision that is specifically needed.

Materials innovation institute M2i

Estimated maximum salary per month: eur 2000 - 2500
Employment basis: Temporary for specified period
Duration of the contract: 4 years

Or additional information can be obtained through one of the following links.

You can apply for this job before 31-12-2008 by sending your application to:

When applying for this job always mention the vacancy number AT MC6.06254.

The short URL code for this job opening is: 00410-97.
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