Internship | Light absorption by plasmonic catalyst for solar-powered methanol production

In the pursue of renewable supplies for energy various alternatives are proposed as replacement for fossil fuels. Among them one finds initiatives that aim to tune systems with enhanced and tunable catalytic activity towards green methanol production. Plasmonic systems composed of metallic nanoparticles in combination with appropriate light irradiation results in a catalytic effect that does not follow what is obtained through more conventional temperature driven processes. This technology has not achieved enough maturity yet, i.e. the possibility to design systems that can target specific reaction pathways on demand. In the pursue of such goal many experimental and theoretical efforts are taking place with challenges on their own.

Currently our group has developed different platforms to experiment on plasmon-enhanced catalysis with nanoparticles of various sizes and shapes to facilitate a particular chemistry, e.g. Suzuki reaction, water splitting, CO2 reduction, solar fuels. How effective each system is will depend not only on the light exposure (e.g. intensity, monochromatic versus full spectrum, etc.) but also on how the nanoparticles are positioned in a reactor (e.g. disperse in solution versus deposited in a substrate). In this assignment we look to synthetize different (supported) metallic nanoparticles and by controlling the shape and the size be able to produce tailored materials for the different reactions and desired products.
An approximate description of the activities to be encountered during this project are:

• Performing literature review and get acquainted with:

- Nanoparticles plasmonic effects;
- CO2 reduction in plasmonic photocatalysis.

• Investigation of strategies to form particles in the range of nano-sizes with different shapes.
• Performing experiments in a chemical lab.
• Structural characterization of the developed catalysts.
• Investigating the Scaling-up synthesis process.
• Analyzing the experimental data and preparing presentations.
• Participating in active discussion with colleagues about your results.
• Reporting and presenting your findings.

• Practical experience in lab environment and hands-on skills are preferable.
• Interest in the energy transition.
• High motivation, with a curious nature and a taste for problem-solving.
• Ability to work autonomously within a small team and good social skills to get the information you need from the most knowledgeable people around you. Good communication skills (in English).

The approximate duration of this internship is six months to eight months (24-32 weeks).

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 and inclusion.

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.