Thomas joined CML in 2024, where he aims to improve the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) toolbox for the environmental evaluation of novel materials.

More information about Thomas Arblaster

Research topic

Thomas develops novel techniques for prospective Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and works on applying this method to the Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) framework. Areas of focus include the introduction of specific protocols for uncertainty analysis, as well as models for the large-scale exploration of future economic and environmental flows. This PhD contributes to the SSbD4CheM project, which demonstrates this framework with novel materials for applications in car interiors, cosmetics, and coating of textiles.

Professional experience

Thomas obtained BSc and MSc degrees from the TU Delft Faculty of Aerospace Engineering in 2020 and 2023 respectively, where he focussed on the design, manufacturing, and durability of aerospace structures and materials. His master thesis explored how designers of aircraft structures might deal with environmental trade-offs when faced with an uncertain future. Before wrapping up his studies at TU Delft, Thomas joined the Industrial Ecology MSc, a joint programme with Leiden University. In January 2024, he completed this programme with a master thesis that explores future scenarios for commercial aviation in Europe. At CML, his knowledge of engineering and industrial ecology contributes to the Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) framework.