Postdoc Molecular Dynamics and Process Simulation of High Temperature Thermal Storage Systems

Help accelerate the electrification of industry by combining molecular and process-scale simulations for high-temperature thermal energy storage.

Carbon-based chemicals are essential building blocks for modern society, forming the basis of various types of products, ranging from plastics and fuels to solvents. The demand for these chemicals is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. However, their syntesis relies heavily on energy-intensive processes requiring large amounts of high-temperature heat, which is currently supplied mainly by fossil fuels. Due to the increasing penetration of renewables in the energy mix, the electrification of heat is seen as a promising route to decarbonize this sector.

However, green electrons are inherently intermittent, and large scale electrical storage remains challenging and costly. A promising alternative is high-temperature thermal storage. Molten salts are among the most promising candidates for this purpose due to their energy density and scalability.

However, there are still many challenges to address before their deplyment at very high temperatures. In this project, you will investigate molten salts for high-temperature thermal energy storage using a combination of molecular dynamics and process-scale simulations. By linking molecular-level understanding to engineering-scale performance, you will contribute to the development of technologies that support the sustainable production of carbon-based chemicals.

The research will be conducted within the Heat Transformation Technology Section of the Process & Energy department, under the supervision of Prof. K. Hooman and Dr.

E. Zanetti. The position is part of the HyCarb project, which aims to support the sustainable production of carbon-based chemicals through the electrification of industrial heat.

The project brings together academic, industrial, and other research partners across the Netherlands, to develop innovative technologies for high-temperature thermal energy storage for industrial decarbonization. As part of the project, you will collaborate closely with industrial stakeholders and Dutch research institutes, contributing to both fundamental and technological development.

• A PhD degree in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science, physics, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience with molecular simulation and/or process modelling and simulation.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, and heat and mass transfer.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken.

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

From chip to ship. From machine to human being. From idea to solution. Driven by a deep-rooted desire to understand our environment and discover its underlying mechanisms, research and education at the ME faculty focusses on fundamental understanding, design, production including application and product improvement, materials, processes and (mechanical) systems.

ME is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It’s a…