Master Thesis Project Material Characterization

Seco in Fagersta is offering a master thesis project within the R&D Materials and Technology Department, focusing on material characterization of cemented carbide cutting tools for high-performance machining applications.

Background

Composite materials composed of a hard ceramic phase-traditionally tungsten carbide-and a ductile binder phase, typically cobalt, are commonly referred to as hard materials or cemented carbides. These materials are produced using a powder metallurgy process that includes wet milling, spray drying, compaction, and sintering.

Cemented carbides offer an attractive combination of high hardness and toughness. By adjusting grain size and binder content, their properties can be tailored to meet specific application needs.

With a strong focus on sustainability and circularity, the production and use of recycled cemented carbides contribute to reducing environmental impact and improving resource efficiency.

Work description

In this project, you investigate plastic deformation in cemented carbide cutting inserts, with a particular focus on how deformation varies across the cutting edge region. Previous studies show that plastic deformation is highly heterogeneous and strongly dependent on the specific location analyzed. This variability highlights the need for large-area characterization to obtain representative and reliable results.

The project involves advanced microstructural characterization using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) over large, stitched areas. A central focus is to systematically map and analyse deformation across extended regions beneath the cutting edge, rather than relying on small, localized observations.

You apply Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) to quantify local plastic deformation through Kernel Average Misorientation (KAM) analysis, providing insights into local strain and dislocation density. In addition, SEM image analysis is used to identify and evaluate deformation-related features such as binder redistribution, shear band formation, and microstructural heterogeneity.

Overall, the project aims to enhance the understanding of how plastic deformation develops in cutting tools and how it can be reliably quantified using large-area SEM and EBSD-based techniques. The work is also closely connected to the ongoing European project AIM-NEXT, which focuses on the design and implementation of non-CRM hard materials for next-generation extreme applications. (https://www.aimnext.eu/)

Your background

We’re looking for a highly motivated student in Materials Science or a related field. A curious mindset, a structured approach to work, and the ability to independently carry out laboratory tasks after initial training are essential. Prior laboratory experience is considered an advantage, as is familiarity with SEM.

As part of the thesis, you present your results both orally and in a written report in English, making strong English communication skills essential.

Duration of the project

The thesis project runs for 20 weeks, with a flexible start date that is agreed upon with the student. On-site presence in Fagersta is required, although some work may be carried out remotely by agreement. Accommodation is provided, and the project includes a one-time compensation.

Our Seco culture  

At Seco, we're united by a spirit of collaboration and a shared curiosity to learn and grow. We take responsibility for our actions, stay focused on our customers, and believe in winning together. For us, it’s also clear that our diversities form an amazing foundation for achieving great results. Curious about our workplace and benefits? Read more on our website. You’re also welcome to visit our LinkedIn or Facebook to get to know us and our products further.

Contact information

For further information about this position, please contact:

• Stefan Olovsjö, Principal R&D Professional Material Design, +46 (0)70-302 03 73 or stefan.olovsjo@secotools.com
• Xenia Stergiopoulou, Ph.D. student AIM.NEXT project (https://www.aimnext.eu/) Lund University, xenia.stergiopoulou@iprod.lth.se

How to apply

Send us your application no later than September 30, 2026. Click apply and include your resume and cover letter in English. Please note that we don’t accept applications by e-mail. Job ID: R0093737.

For more information about our recruitment process, please contact HR Services at hrservices.sweden@sandvik.com.