PhD student (M/F) : Advanced cross-linking processes for polymeric materials

Job Description

Thesis Subject

Cross-linking processes using external energy sources are playing an increasingly important role in the fields of coatings, inks, adhesives and functional materials. UV photopolymerisation, and more recently LED technologies, enable rapid, localised and energy-efficient processes. Recent developments in UV LEDs at different wavelengths, as well as approaches utilising the near-infrared (NIR), are opening up new possibilities for tailoring cross-linking conditions to specific formulations and desired properties.
This thesis aims to understand the influence of activation conditions on the formation and properties of polymer networks, and to compare different cross-linking technologies under controlled experimental conditions. Particular attention will be paid to the relationships between the energy source (UV or EB), conversion, network structure and final properties.
The work will focus primarily on the study of model polymerisable formulations subjected to different irradiation conditions: conventional UV lamps, UV/visible LEDs across a wide wavelength range (UVC, UVB or UVA) and, where relevant, NIR and EB sources.
The main objectives will be to:
• study the kinetics and conversion of polymerisation reactions;
• determine the influence of wavelength, intensity and energy dose;
• characterise the structure of polymer networks and their cross-linking density;
• to evaluate the thermal, mechanical and adhesion properties of materials;
• to study inhibition phenomena, particularly those related to oxygen and interfaces;
• to analyse the influence of thickness, pigments and fillers;
• to decouple photochemical and photothermal phenomena within rationalised reaction mechanisms.
A comparison with cross-linking processes using other energy sources may also be carried out, in particular to identify the respective advantages and limitations of the different technologies.
The materials will be characterised using various techniques, including FTIR/Raman spectroscopy, DSC, DMA, photorheology and mechanical/adhesion testing. A modelling approach will be used to link irradiation conditions to the generation of reactive species and to the properties of the resulting networks.
In a second stage, the results will be applied to more complex formulations representative of industrial applications.
Required profile:
Holder of a Master's degree or engineering qualification in chemistry, physical chemistry, materials science, polymers or an equivalent field.
Experience in polymerisation or the characterisation of polymeric materials would be an advantage. The candidate must have a strong interest in experimental research and in projects at the interface between materials science and applications.

Your Work Environment

The PhD project is part of the LAMPS (Light for Advanced Materials and Processes) joint laboratory, a collaboration between the University of Haute-Alsace, the CNRS and Arkema. The PhD student will therefore benefit from an academic and industrial research environment, at the interface between fundamental research, materials development and cross-linking processes.
The student (M/F) will be affiliated with the Mulhouse branch of the Strasbourg Doctoral School (ED 182).
The campus is located in a green setting and is easily accessible by public transportation.
Employee benefits: partial reimbursement of transit fares and/or a transportation allowance, university cafeteria, continuing education, and supplemental health insurance.

Constraints and risks

Risks associated with chemicals

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

2300 € gross monthly

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

The research professions