Postdoc Hyweld: Creating Thermoset-Thermoplastic Coupling Layers Welding

Creating Thermoset‑Thermoplastic Coupling Layers for Welding for Novel Competitive Composite Aerostructures Job description

To reduce aviation's climate impact and meet EU emission targets, lighter aircraft and faster adoption (and scaling‑up!) of sustainable technologies are essential. One promising solution is using high‑performance thermoplastic composites which offer advantages over traditional thermoset composites such as faster processing, higher production rates at lower cost, and recyclability. Whereas thermoset components are assembled with mechanical fasteners like rivets (additional weight and cost, and a major cause for production rework and scrap), thermoplastic composites are assembled through welding, which reduces weight and simplifies production.

HyWeld aims to develop hybrid welding technology that enables joining of thermoplastic and thermoset composite components, taking advantage of both the materials. A crucial first step in this process is to create a weldable thermoset surface.

The postdoctoral researcher will play a vital role in the development of this coupling layer used on the thermoset, to enable the welding technology to the thermoplastic substrate. The work will involve the assessment of compatibility of the coupling layer with the thermoset and thermoplastic materials used in the substrates. This entails research on diffusion, curing and adhesion mechanisms, interphase morphology studies, and optimization of the manufacturing cycle for optimal structural performance.

The research will consist of both experimental and modelling work. Key responsibilities include experimental validation of the structural performance of the coupling layer, with models to predict the compatibility and optimal processing cycle for different material combinations, and contributing to scientific publications and project deliverables.

The position is based at Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Aerospace Engineering and is part of a close collaboration with SAM XL and several industrial partners.

• Educational Background: A PhD degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, material science, nanoscience, polymer chemistry, applied physics or a related subject, with a strong background in experimental work relating to polymer processing, fracture mechanics. Experience in developing constitutive models is considered an advantage.
• Critical Thinking and Scientific Leadership:
  Strong analytical and critical‑thinking skills, with the ability to independently define research directions, and lead key technical aspects of the project.
• Teamwork and Responsibility:
  Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary project team while taking ownership of individual research objectives and deliverables.
• Communication
  
  Skills:
  
  Excellent proficiency in English, both written and oral, with the ability to communicate research outcomes clearly to academic and industrial stakeholders.

The selected candidate is expected to actively contribute to a dynamic and collaborative research environment within the Department of Aerospace Structures and Materials, Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology.

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world‑famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world‑class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem‑solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

That is why we invite you to apply. Your…