PhD Position Effect of Tramp Elements in Martensitic Stainless Steels

PhD Position Effect of Tramp Elements in Martensitic Stainless Steels

Effect of Tramp Elements effect of tramp elements in martensitic stainless steels

As the steel industry moves towards a more sustainable future, increasing the use of recycled scrap is becoming essential. However, recycled steel often contains residual alloying elements that are difficult to remove and are carried over into newly produced steels. These so‑called “tramp elements” or impurities can significantly affect steel quality, causing issues ranging from surface cracking during processing to the formation of undesirable phases in the final microstructure.

This challenge is particularly relevant for martensitic stainless steels, a technologically important class of materials whose outstanding properties depend on a carefully controlled microstructure. Understanding how impurity elements influence these steels is therefore critical for enabling a circular and resource‑efficient steel industry.

In this PhD project, you will investigate which impurity elements are most critical for martensitic stainless steels, where they originate from, and how they accumulate throughout recycling loops. Combining advanced characterization, materials science, and metallurgical insight, you will explore how these elements affect microstructure evolution, processing behaviour, and ultimately material performance. Where possible, strategies to mitigate their negative effects will also be examined.

The project offers an exciting opportunity to address a fundamental scientific challenge with direct industrial relevance. By improving our understanding of impurities in recycled steels, you will contribute to the development of more sustainable steel production routes while helping to unlock higher recycled content without compromising quality or performance.

We are looking for an ambitious PhD‑researcher to join this project. As a PhD‑researcher, you will work in a stimulating academic environment and collaborate with leading industrial partners. You will also have the opportunity to contribute to the academic community through discussions, the co‑supervision of students, and guest lectures.

We seek an outstanding, motivated and enthusiastic researcher with experience in microstructure development in metals and physical metallurgy. Applicant must:

• hold an MSc‑degree in the field of materials science or related disciplines, such as solid‑state physics or materials engineering, with a solid background in metal science.
• have experience with microstructural characterization.
• have a critical, curious, and creative approach to the research, with excellent problem‑solving skills and communication skills.
• have proven experience in writing scientific reports.
• have the motivation to work in an international, multidisciplinary, and academic‑industrial team.
• be willing to participate in educational activities such as guest lectures.
• have proven excellent written and spoken English skills.

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.…