Internship | Numerical modelling of a membrane-based unit for solvent deoxygenation in postcombustion CO2 capture

The Gas Treatment team at the Department of Sustainable Process and Energy Systems works to reduce the carbon footprint of energy and chemical processes by absorbing CO₂ using solvents and eventually converting it into synthetic fuels. Our team focuses on the development and scaling up of strategies to remove and purify CO₂ from a wide range of industries, including, but not limited to, waste-to-energy plants, cement production facilities, and large container ships.

In this internship project, you will work on the modelling of a membrane-based separation process for the deoxygenation of second-generation amine solvents in a post-combustion carbon capture plant. During the MeDORA project, data about solvent deoxygenation using a membrane-separation unit have been collected at different operational conditions. The objective of this internship is to develop a mathematical model based on a resistance-in-series mass transfer model to extrapolate the results of the MeDORA campaign to operational conditions beyond the ones already done experimentally; this model needs to be developed in such a way that it can be used for TEA analysis by other partners.

The work will comprise not only solving the Ordinary Differential Equation (ODE) system, but also collecting from literature experimental data of correlations for physico-chemical properties of gases and solvents (diffusivities, densities, solubilities, etc). A basic model has already been created, based on statistical analysis and a global mass transfer, which can be used as a starting point and benchmark for the new proposed model. The expected duration of this industrial internship is at least 4 months.

• Master’s students from an applied mathematics and process/chemical engineering background are best suited for this project. A good understanding of numerical solutions for Ordinary Differential Equation Systems (ODEs) and transport phenomena is needed for this project.
• Work in a structured way, be a team player and be capable of multitasking.
• Good at giving descriptions of the code/mathematical model developed during the internship.
• Be capable of communicating and reporting in English, especially with people not educated in coding and or mathematical modelling.
• Students should be comfortable working in an international, diverse, and multidisciplinary environment.

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.

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.