Analysis of critical and strategic raw materials of printed circuit boards and medical waste after thermolysis.
The demand for critical and strategic raw materials (CRMs and SRMs) is growing explosively, particularly due to developments in technology, mobility, and medical applications. At the same time, the recovery rate in the EU, at only 8.3%, remains far below EU targets. Waste streams are often heterogeneous in composition, difficult to separate, and are currently mostly incinerated, resulting in CO₂ emissions and the loss of valuable metals. There is an urgent need to develop efficient and circular processes for recovering raw materials from complex waste streams such as e-waste and hospital waste.
Within the framework of the RECLAIM project, an innovative solution to this problem is being developed. Using the DCI™ technology developed by the company DOPS, composite waste streams are thermochemically processed into reusable solid components (such as metals and minerals) and syngas, which can be used as a feedstock for the chemical industry.
The “Applied Nanotechnology” research group at Saxion plays a crucial role within the project by carrying out material analyses. After DCI processing, the remaining metals from PCB clippings and medical products (such as needles and blades) must be examined, as well as eventual byproducts. For this purpose, we primarily use FT-IR, SEM-EDX, GC-MS and ICP. The internship as well includes visits to the project partners to get familiar with the thermolysis process and the waste stream management.
To carry out this work, we are looking for a motivated student with an interest in material analysis who wants to contribute to circular innovations. Are you interested in sustainable energy supply, do you work accurately, and do you have a passion for analytical chemistry? Then we offer a project with direct societal impact.
Project duration:
Fall 26/27
Internship or graduation project:
Open for internship or graduation project
Educational programs:
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
Interested? Please send your motivation letter and CV before the 7th of June 2026 to appliednanotechnology.led@saxion.nl and include Michelle Fleermann (m.fleermann@saxion.nl) in the CC.