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R&D Polyurethane Internship - The action of antioxidants in polyurethane formulations: effects on generation of aldehydes overtime in ageing raw materials and during the reaction with isocyanates.
About you and this role
We are looking for you, an ambitious master student, to support our R&D Polyurethane by doing an internship project in studying the action of antioxidants in polyurethane formulations with particular regard to aldehyde formation in various conditions for our location in Correggio, Italy.
Dow is offering great career opportunities in a global and international environment. The department that will welcome you is the global center of excellence for the development of Polyurethane Systems, dealing with a variety of different industries, such as Building and Construction, Automotive, Furniture, Infrastructure.
Project description
The focus of the investigation is to determine the influence of various types/families of antioxidants embedded in polyurethane raw materials (polyols) on the generation of aldehyde species (in particular: formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, propionaldehyde, acrolein). The influence will be studied in various conditions, including ageing of the polyol at various temperatures or in reaction conditions with isocyanate, that is, during the creation of polyurethane molecules, or chain-extended isocyanates (pre-polymers). One important characterization used during the study will be headspace-gas chromatography.
**Responsibilities**:
- Preparation and design of polyols and isocyanate blend with different fillers and additives
- Aging stability
- Calibration and use of a headspace-gas chromatography instrument for aldehyde detection, in various conditions
- Documentation and analysis of the obtained results
**Qualifications**:
- You are currently studying for a master's degree or equivalent in chemistry, industrial chemistry, material science or similar.
- You have a good knowledge of English. Knowledge of Italian will be a plus.
- Basic Knowledge of organic chemistry and analytical chemistry
- You have previously worked in a chemistry laboratory, e.g. during academic courses
- You can work in team, you have curiosity and initiative.
Preferred Skills
- Fluent English
- Chemical background
- Good learning skills
- Focus on chemical and process safety.
You can start between January and March in 2025 for a period of 4 to 6 months (exact timing to be discussed).
About Dow
As part of our dedication to the diversity of our workforce, Dow is committed to equal opportunities in employment. We encourage every employee to bring their whole self to work each day to not only deliver more value, but also have a more fulfilling career. Further information regarding Dow's equal opportunities is available on
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