Internship | Behind the Brakes: The Influence of Background Emissions on On-road Brake Wear Measurements

Road-traffic particulate matter emissions from the exhaust have been regulated for decades, whereas non-exhaust road-traffic emissions, such as brake wear, tyre wear and road surfaces wear, are currently unregulated. Because of this about 75% of PM10 emissions from road-traffic in the Netherlands comes from non-exhaust sources. Non-exhaust particulate matter emissions contain various harmful particles and metals, which can lead to adverse health effects. Non-exhaust emissions are therefore a real and urgent issue! In this research project we will try to determine what the influence is of background emissions on on-road brake wear measurements. Thereby, we will attempt to improve and optimise our analysis techniques of on-road brake wear measurements.

In this project you will analyse on-road brake wear measurements collected from two heavy-duty vehicles. These vehicles were fitted with devices to measure particles generated by the brakes and other parameters such as vehicle speed, brake temperature and braking torque. The sampling system at the wheel was fully open such that the influence on air flow and temperature around the brakes was minimally influenced.

This internship project starts with a thorough literature review on heavy-duty brake temperatures and brake wear emissions. Then it will be investigated in the data whether brake temperatures showed different behaviour with the sampling set up installed. It is also investigated whether external sources (such as other nearby vehicles) influenced particle measurements. Finally, it would be interesting to consider whether one can correct for external sources in a consistent manner.

You are enrolled in a master’s programme in a discipline with a strong quantitative component such as mathematics, physics, computer science, mechanical engineering, econometrics or similar. You have had some exposure to programming and mathematical modelling in your degree. You have an interest in sustainability generally, but you are not required to have taken any courses in your degree related to sustainability or pollutant emissions. Preferably, you want to take this internship as your master’s thesis internship.

You are focused on achieving results and having influence and impact within TNO. You are socially involved, creative and able to think out of the box. You combine these qualities with a good dose of enthusiasm to work on sustainable mobility, both in a technical and policy sense. You take ownership of your work and you are a team player who solves problems together with others. You are also structured, analytically and qualitatively strong. You are strong in communication and you can listen "actively".

The deadline for applying for this vacancy is the 30th of September 2025. Applications submitted during August will receive a delayed response at the start of September due to the holiday period.

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, equity and inclusion.

Please apply before the 30th of September, 2025. 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.