Description

Ceramics have applications in everyday life, such as in construction (bricks, tiles, surface coverings, and decoration). To enhance its competitiveness and modernity, this industrial sector has undergone significant scientific and technological transformations in recent decades. Furthermore, it must contend with rising energy costs and reduce its carbon footprint. Villa Petra operates within this field, designing, manufacturing, and selling
full-body porcelain stoneware flooring to B2B customers.

The ceramics produced by Villa Petra are composed of silicates, aluminates, carbonates, and other components in smaller quantities, which vary depending on the specific ceramic product. The manufacturing process relies on proven technologies, making further innovation unnecessary.

On the other hand, the substitution of raw materials with waste has an interest already demonstrated by recent documented studies. Based on the principles of a circular economy, the objective of this Ph. D. thesis is to develop ceramics using waste materials. The project will begin with a search for the most suitable waste resources. Artificial
intelligence techniques will be employed for this purpose. It will be necessary to collect data from public or commercial databases and develop algorithms using existing libraries. Based on the previously identified resources, the Ph. D. thesis will then focus on the extraction of oxides and their purification using methods yet to be implemented. Substitute inks will then be developed and analyzed in terms of rheology and loss on ignition using laboratory-scale tests. Finally, the new inks will be used to create new coatings.

Skills required

Candidates must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Materials Science and possess in-depth knowledge of mineral chemistry and ceramic processing. Advanced proficiency in Python programming is also required. Knowledge of complex fluid rheology is recommended. A strong interest in experimental work is highly desirable. Candidates must also demonstrate rigor, autonomy, initiative, and excellent teamwork and communication skills.

Bibliography

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Keywords

materials , ceramic