Thesis in Chemical characterization and evolution of tire wear emissions: from source signature[...]

Thesis in Chemical characterization and evolution of tire wear emissions: from source signatures to transformation and hygroscopic properties (TWEET)

Contract type: CDD (36 months)

Location: IMT Nord Europe (Douai and Lille campuses)

Start date: 01/11/2026

Background

Road transport remains a major contributor to air pollution. While exhaust emissions have been significantly reduced through technological advances and the progressive electrification of vehicles, non‑exhaust emissions—including brake, road, and tire wear—are increasingly recognized as dominant and still poorly characterized sources of pollutants. Among these, tire wear particles (TWPs) constitute a complex mixture of organic compounds, additives, and metals, emitted both in the particulate and semi‑volatile phases. TWPs accumulate in many environments (air, stormwater runoff, or through bioaccumulation in vegetation and animals) and can be a major source of microplastics and heavy metals that are toxic to human and environmental health. Despite growing attention, important uncertainties remain regarding the chemical composition, atmospheric transformation, and environmental behaviour of tire‑derived emissions. In particular, the impact of atmospheric ageing on their physicochemical properties—such as oxidation state, surface reactivity, and interaction with water—remains insufficiently understood.

Objectives

• Develop a method to quantify TWP and their selected additives using pyrolysis‑GC‑MS.
• Identify chemical tracers of TWPs in controlled and real‑world samples.
• Investigate compositional and surface changes induced by ageing.
• Assess their hygroscopic properties.

Research activities

At IMT Nord Europe, emissions from new and aged tires (summer, winter, and all‑season) will be analysed using complementary techniques including microchambers, TD‑GC‑MS, pyrolysis‑GC‑MS, and FTIR spectroscopy to determine molecular composition and functional groups. Samples collected in traffic‑influenced environments will be studied to evaluate the relevance of identified tracers under realistic conditions. TWP’s metal content and distribution will be investigated using ICP‑MS and surface‑sensitive approaches. At LASIRE, particle morphology, elemental composition, degree of encrustation, and surface characteristics will be examined using electron microscopy (MEB/EDX), while electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) will identify persistent radical species formed during ageing and assess their potential role in particle reactivity. The project will also examine how simulated and real environmental ageing modifies the interaction of TWPs with water, providing insight into their evolving physicochemical properties in the atmosphere.

Responsibilities

• Analyse tire wear particulate emissions from primary release to atmospheric evolution.
• Apply complementary techniques (microchambers, TD‑GC‑MS, pyrolysis‑GC‑MS, FTIR, ICP‑MS, EPR, and electron microscopy).
• Conduct atmospheric ageing simulations and assess particle–water interactions.
• Collaborate with LASIRE and the cross‑disciplinary consortium “Aerosols at the heart of the atmosphere” (CDP AREA).
• Contribute to teaching activities up to a maximum of 64 hours.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in atmospheric chemistry, physical chemistry, environmental science, or a closely related discipline.
• Knowledge of analytical techniques, particularly spectrometric and/or spectroscopic methods (GC‑MS, FTIR, or similar).
• Interest in experimental laboratory work and physicochemical characterization of complex systems.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary and international research environment.
• Strong organisational skills, scientific rigor, and autonomy.
• Good communication skills in English (written and spoken).
• Previous experience with atmospheric simulation chambers, aerosol analysis, or advanced analytical instrumentation is an asset.

Employment Details

The job is to be filled as of 01/11/26 for a period of 36 months (temporary contract).