Postdoc in mechanical modelling and failure identification of impregnated low-temperature...

Postdoc in mechanical modelling and failure identification of impregnated low-temperature superconductive magnets

The Soft Materials Group headed by Prof. Jan Vermant at the Department of Materials at ETH Zürich is looking for a postdoc for mechanical characterization and finite-element modelling of epoxy-impregnated low-temperature superconductive Nb3Sn Rutherford cable stacks. These superconductive magnet systems will be used in the Future Circular Collider (FCC), the intended successor of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) of CERN in Geneva, Switzerland. In our group we have developed new epoxy systems that have improved fracture properties at cryogenic temperatures and that will now be applied to impregnate superconductive cable stacks in collaboration with the Magnet Section at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Villigen.

The European Strategy for Particle Physics (ESPP) 2020 has stated that Europe should investigate the technical and financial feasibility of a future hadron collider at CERN using high-field magnets that include low-temperature superconducting (LTS) magnets wound from Nb3Sn, which are considered to reach ultimate fields of 16 T. Efficient LTS magnet system design requires accurate mechanical characterization and constitutive modelling at the level of Rutherford cable stacks. Therefore, this project will perform a detailed analysis of the anisotropic finite deformation behaviour of impregnated 10-stacks made from Nb3Sn Rutherford cables. Additionally, the influence of the fracture toughness of the impregnating matrix system on the fracture mechanics of the 10-stacks will be investigated. The observed mechanical behaviour of the 10-stacks will be captured in a detailed constitutive model to be implemented in a finite element program. A standard testing and analysis procedure will be made available for future material characterization, modelling, and design activities.

The project aims at state-of-the-art mechanical characterization and modelling of impregnated 10-stacks made from Nb3Sn Rutherford cables. Accordingly, you will participate in: 

• producing impregnated 10-stacks made from Nb3Sn Rutherford cables as superconductive magnet systems (together with the Magnet Section at PSI);
• experimental characterization and theoretical modelling of the anisotropic elastic, plastic and failure behaviour of the 10-stack samples;
• implementation of the constitutive model in a finite element program;

Your work will deepen the understanding of the mechanical behaviour of 10-stack Rutherford cables. You will learn how to apply advanced constitutive models of anisotropic mechanical behaviour. Your work will enable to construction of better LTS magnets by providing improved LTS magnet system design.

We offer you a full-time position for the duration of your postdoc (2 years), starting upon agreement with the earliest starting of 1 September 2022. You will work in an interdisciplinary team of researchers with in-depth experience in processing, characterization and modelling of soft materials, including polymer materials. As an integral part of your work, you will publish your results in peer-reviewed journals and present them at international conferences.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

We are looking for a proactive and motivated individual, who meets the requirements for a position at ETH Zurich and has a doctoral degree in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics or process engineering from a recognized university. Ideally, you already have strong experience in the mechanical characterization of composite materials. You are highly motivated to learn and apply modern finite element techniques and work in a dynamic environment with other doctoral students and postdocs. The ability to work independently and excellent communication skills in English (both written and spoken) complete your profile.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in
science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education,
cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge
into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our
university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an
environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe,
yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to
develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents by September 15th 2022:

• Curriculum Vitae, max. 2 pages
• Motivation Letter, max. 2 pages
• Contact details of 2 referees

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. We will not consider applications sent via email or postal services. We will get in touch with you after 2-3 weeks following submission.

For further information about the Soft Materials Group, please visit our website . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Dr Theo Tervoort, [email protected] (no applications).