We have a post doc position available on the following themes:
Oxidative coupling of methane, ethylene, synthesis gas, dual function catalyst, membrane reactor.

Abstract
The direct route for the production of ethylene from natural gas via oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) in a single step is still high on the industrial wish-list, but has proven a major scientific and technological challenge. However, when the exothermic oxidative coupling of methane is combined with endothermic steam/dry reforming of the by-products of the OCM and additional methane, ethylene and syngas can be produced simultaneously in an autothermal process. Thus, a higher methane conversion (avoiding a large methane recycle) and efficient use of the by-products of the OCM is combined with optimal heat integration.

The integration of the exothermic and endothermic reactions is optimally achieved on the catalyst particle scale, which would make the reactor configuration much simpler (no lateral temperature gradients in the reactor) and cheaper compared to a non-isothermal membrane reactor. Detailed simulations on the integration of the reactions on the particle scale have been carried out in a previous ASPECT project titled ‘Simultaneous production of ethylene and synthesis gas combining the oxidative coupling and reforming of methane in a reverse flow membrane reactor with a dual function catalyst’, and have shown that it is theoretically indeed possible to integrate the oxidative coupling and steam reforming of methane on the particle scale, making effective use of intra-particle mass transfer limitations.

The simulations have led to a first possible design of the dual-function catalyst particle. In this follow-up project, we propose to actually fabricate the dual-function catalyst and to demonstrate its performance for the combined autothermal process experimentally. The deliverables of the project are new knowledge on the fabrication of dual-function catalysts, detailed reaction kinetics for this reaction system and an experimental proof-of-principle of reaction integration on the particle scale in a packed bed membrane reactor.

Requirements
We are looking for a talented and enthusiastic post-doc with a master degree in Chemical Engineering, with solid background and a strong research and publication record in the area of heterogeneous catalysis and/or membrane reactors. The candidate is required to have a sound experience in experimental work as well as modeling of chemical reactors.

Applicants are expected to have excellent communication skills with both technical and non-technical staff, ability to work in a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers, excellent knowledge of written and spoken English, good attitude to lead their own projects.

Conditions of employment
We offer a challenging job at a dynamic and ambitious university. The gross monthly salary in accordance with the Collective Labor Agreement of the Dutch Universities (CAO NU) starts with € 2861,-. Besides this, the TU/e has an excellent package of attractive benefits for employees, a child-care facility, and a modern sports complex. Assistance for finding accommodation can be given.

Application Deadline September 30th, 2010.
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