Research laboratory
© IKVTopic of the work:
In plastics analysis, material-specific sample preparation is the basic prerequisite for error-free analysis and evaluation of microstructures and processing characteristics. Many unreinforced thermoplastics can be easily prepared as thin sections and examined using transmitted light microscopy. The cutting process offers numerous degrees of freedom (e.g. blade type, cutting thickness, clearance angle, speed, cross-sectional area), which can influence the result individually and in particular depending on the material. Particularly in the case of planned stress-optical analyses in polarized transmitted light, poorly coordinated thin-section preparation can adversely change the microstructures and contribute to misinterpretations. This motivates us to systematically investigate the effects of relevant parameters on the microtome for selected materials.
The work is written in this working group:
The tests carried out in the microscopy laboratory at the Center for Plastics Analysis and Testing (KAP) provide significant support for industry and the institute’s own research in the validation of production parameters. Another focus is on systematic damage analysis in order to precisely identify the causes of faults and bridge the gap between research and industrial implementation. Through these analyses, the laboratory provides essential findings for the optimization of production processes and improved component quality.
Objective:
Within the framework of a research laboratory, preparation influences on selected materials during thin section production are to be evaluated by means of a parameter study and the accompanying light microscopic examination in order to be able to derive material-specific recommendations for action.
Your task:
- Systematic investigation: Influence of specific preparation parameters on the rotational microtome on the microstructure interpretation of plastics
- Light microscopic examinations: Evaluation of cut quality (scoring, deformation and length change, stress-optical characteristics)
- Statistical analysis: Qualitative and, if necessary Quantitative processing of results and derivation of suitable preparation recommendations
Your profile:
- Technical or scientific studies (e.g. mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, materials science…)
- Interest in analytical tasks and practical work in the laboratory
- Independent, structured and team-oriented way of working
These are your benefits:
- Work in a motivated team
- Independent work with needs-based support
- Processing of research-relevant questions
- Individual coordination of tasks and time frame
- Experimental work on laboratory equipment
- Short-term start possible / fast processing without delays
If you are interested in this task, please get in touch with us. We agree on the exact scope of content and schedule individually.