EngD BioBTX – Optimization of the ICCP process

The University of Groningen is committed to strengthening the Northern Netherlands by addressing modern challenges such as energy transition and sustainability. The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) contributes to this mission by training skilled professionals through our new EngD programme in Sustainable Process Design. This 2-year post-master design programme, closely collaborating with local companies, focuses on the direct needs of the industry.

The Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen (ENTEG-part of the FSE) of the University of Groningen is offering a fully funded 2-year position to master graduates leading to the award of an EngD (Engineering Doctorate) degree. The EngD programme includes specialized EngD and professionalization courses at the University of Groningen and a design project which will be performed at BioBTX and the University of Groningen. The position offered is in the context of the project BioBTX-Optimization of the ICCP process. The appointment is for two years starting latest in September 2025.

BioBTX is a circular chemistry technology developer that makes it possible to replace fossil resources for biomass & plastic waste. They use these renewable resources for the production of drop-in chemicals and aromatics to enable the production of sustainable and future proof materials.

BioBTX developed a unique and commercially attractive integrated catalytic pyrolysis process (ICCP) that maximizes BTX yield and minimizes operational costs. Without biobased and renewable aromatics, the options for sustainable materials are very limited; with these renewable aromatics however, it is possible to achieve truly green and sustainable materials for the entire society and industry.

Its proprietary ICCP technology consists of two processing steps: (1) pyrolysis of biomass and plastics into hydrocarbon vapors, and (2) catalytic upgrading of these vapors towards valuable aromatics and other products. By dividing the process into two steps, BioBTX can optimize the technology and extensively research both steps.

The EngD project will focus on optimizing BioBTX’s ICCP process through technology evaluation and modeling, as well as feasibility studies. This may include optimizing material efficiency, equipment/reactor designs, and integrating energy recovery systems to reduce environmental impact and production costs. More details on the specific project goals will be given at the beginning of the project.

The project will be executed at the University of Groningen (Zernike campus). Part of the work might be conducted at BioBTX’s premises, which is also located at the Zernike campus.