Biocomposites
Partners
NHLStenden University of Applied Sciences
The universities of applied sciences (in Dutch: 'hogescholen') offer programs that focus on the practical application of arts and sciences.
NHLStenden University is an internationally recognised institution that awards accredited degrees. We have already successfully educated thousands of international students (also from Brazil) with our English-language bachelor and master programmes in a variety of subject areas. These range from International Hospitality Management to International Teacher Education for primary schools (ITEPS) to Information Technology and Life Sciences.
Within NHL Stenden there is a research institute called GreenPAC. Green PAC is the hub for green (fibre) chemistry in the North East Netherlands and the place to develop knowledge. At Green PAC ideas lead to innovations and innovations to new products: products with added value and the power to compete on the market. The research areas are biobased and/or biodegradable polymers, 3D-printing, sustainable fibers, recycling of polymers, biocomposites.
More information: https://www.greenpac.eu/nl/
internship information
Research topics for internships vary by period as they are aligned with the ongoing research at that time. Below are some examples of previous internships to get a feel of what's possible within the subject of biocomposites.
NHLStenden University of Applied Sciences
Within the topic of this internship you will be working in the research area of biocomposites. Depending on your skills you will be working on the chemical part of biocomposites or more on the technological part of biocomposites.
1. Synthesis of biobased resins
Biobased polymers are well-known in the field of thermoplastic materials, e.g. PLA, PHA’s and starch-based polymers. In constructive applications, thermoset polymer-composite materials are gaining interest. Composite components are mostly made of thermoset polymers in applications like aeroplanes, bridges, houses and infrastructure. Some of the applications can be fullfilled by biocomposite materials, e.g. a combination of natural fibers or synthetic biobased fibers with biobased thermoset resins. Although recent progress is made in the field of polyurethanes (bio-PUR) and phenol resins (from lignin), it is still challenging to synthesize fully biobased thermosets. An important consideration is the interaction with natural fibers like hemp, flax, jute or synthetic biobased fibers like BioPET, PLA and viscose. A detailed study on the interphase properties between matrix and fibers is desired. In addition, the role of water during the processing of the polymers in combination with the natural fiber and the durability of biocomposites in constructive applications, for example civil bridges, is of great importance.
2. Processing of biocomposite materials
The processing of fibers in combination with a thermoset or thermoplastic matrix is an important aspect of producing biocomposite materials. Compounding and extrusion properties, impregnation and consolidation play an essential role. Hence, processing and rheology are important issues regarding this theme. Key techniques are vacuum infusion and resin transfer moulding (RTM) for thermoset composites and pultrusion for thermoplastic composites. A detailed study on the interaction between fibers and resin is required. Additionally, a high volume percentage of fibers within the biocomposite is desired.
Goal of internship:
Main goal is to obtain more knowledge about biocomposites, because these materials are very promising for replacement of wood, steel and concrete.
Activities:
- Preparing compounds based on natural fibres and a polymer
- Analysing techniques; chemical and mechanical
- Preparing new polymers or compounds (new fibre-polymer combinations).
- Cooperating in a larger project together with PhD’s and researchers
- Gain knowdledge about the biobased economy
Final product
The student will write a report that contains an overview of all activities and findings.
Qualifications
Suitable academies/desirable skills
The student should be able to carry out independent laboratory research. The preferred background is polymeric chemistry or otherwise biochemistry, analytical chemistry or bioprocessing. The interest in material science and applications is a pre.
additional information
Possible internship periods
September 2025 - January 2026
Upon inquiry
Working language
English