진학프로석·박사 채용 접수 플랫폼

The FEELWOOD project is an ANR-funded initiative focused on valorizing wood sawmill by-products through twin-screw extrusion. This project brings together three research laboratories: CEMEF (Center for Material Forming), IMP (Polymer Materials Engineering), and GEPEA (Environmental Agrofood Process Engineering). Two private companies are also partners: Sciences Computers Consultants and WoodTechno. The project’s goal is to master the production of pellets via twin-screw extrusion from wood sawdust. The transformation chain, schematized in the figure below, represents the scientific challenges that will be addressed by the various partners. 

The Topic : One of the key scientific challenges is the thermo-hydro-rheological characterization of the complex fluid formed by humidified wood sawdust. The task of overcoming this challenge is assigned to our OSE team from GEPEA. Our research expertise is focused on the characterization and optimization of material processing (polymers, bio-based materials, elastomers) using experimental and numerical approaches that intersect the fields of mechanics, thermal processes, and rheology. We have recently acquired an experimental platform that allows us to formulate and characterize complex fluids (mixing). Working with a fluid, or rather a paste based on wood, is a scientifically exciting perspective, and we are looking for a future colleague to join us in this project. 

The Work to Be Done :The work will be carried out in two phases: First, the task will be to characterize the wood sawdust-based mixture using benchtop characterization devices such as a parallel-plate rheometer, MFI, microscope, etc. This step will allow for a better understanding of the material’s behavior under varying humidity and temperature conditions. Then, the goal is to characterize the mixture under conditions closer to those encountered during extrusion, particularly with realistic pressure levels. A specific rheological device, based on existing equipment, may be designed to be integrated into a twin-screw extruder. A portion of the work will also be dedicated to the scientific dissemination of the results through publications (papers, conferences) and outreach activities.

Work Location and Duration : The postdoctoral contract is for 18 months, starting in April 2025. The recruited person will work within the GEPEA research team hosted at the IUT of Nantes, Fleuriaye campus in Carquefou, to the north of Nantes. Occasional travels within France may be required in the context of the Fellwood ANR project.