PostDoc Project : Microkinetic modelling of VGO hydrocracking

Job description

SITE EXTERNE(USA)
Job Description

This PostDoc will be a one-year international collaboration within Total and the Research Group of Professor Michael Klein at the University of Delaware. The goal is to implement a microkinetic toolbox (KMT toolbox) developed by Prof. Klein’s team to the modelling, understanding and optimization of units used in the conversion of Vacuum Gasoil (VGO). 

Vacuum Gasoil (VGO) is converted in lighter hydrocarbon streams using Distillates Hydrocrackers (DHC), which are nowadays key units in refining platforms. Optimal operation DHCs requires a robust model able to evaluate the reactivity of feedstocks, the behavior of catalyst and the performance of units under very dynamic conditions.

Within classic models, feedstock reactivity is often predicted from macroscopic properties. This approach is not enough in the case of complex loads (SR, SDA, VB distillates, vegetal oils); hence developing more sophisticated models, with a molecular insight, is key. This requires pointing out the right feed molecular descriptor and potentially linking it to geographical or process origin, or even a certain combination of macroscopic analyses of the feed. On the other hand, the way to model the DHC process shall be adapted, gaining in understanding and therefore robustness on those new feedstocks. Microkinetic models are the most adequate to describe the conversion of these feedstocks at the molecular level.

The incumbent will have a Post-Doc contract with the University of Delaware,  financed by Total . He/she will be an active member part of the research team of Total, with regular feedback and participation to team activities in France.

Postdoc activities:
·  Take part in the establishment of the work planning
·  Get familiar with the KMT toolbox modules
·  Use KMT toolbox to develop micro-kinetic model for VGO hydrocracking
·  Prepare experimental data for model calibration then model calibration (kinetic parameters estimation)
·  Perform first simulations using the developed model then results analysis
·  Participate in pilot data selection with Total modeling team for model validation in order to test the model robustness
·  Identify & propose axes of improvements of the developed model
·  Technical note redaction
Offer ID

20713BR
Country

USA
Contract duration

12
About us / company profile

Give your best to better energy and make the commitment with Total. With over 500-plus professions in 130 countries, we offer high safety and environmental standards, strong ethical values, an innovation culture and wide-ranging career development. Be part of the global team whose mission is already shared by 100,000 employees: to make energy better each and every day.

Candidate profile

·  PhD In Chemical engineering or related field.
·  Knowledge in kinetics modeling.
·  Ability to autonomously pursuit research goals, creating innovative approaches.
·  Interest in participating in international research projects and multidisciplinary work.
·  Fluent English, French highly desired.
Métier

Process R&D
Job Title

PostDoc Project : Microkinetic modelling of VGO hydrocracking
Duration unit

Months
Branch

Refining & Chemicals
Functional discipline

Research Innovation&Developpt
Experience level required

0 - 3 years, 3 - 6 years
Employment type

Sponsorship
Workplace location (Precisions/Keywords)

University of Delaware (Newark, DE)
Context and environment