3D printed porous metamaterials for protective packaging of high-value objects

Supervisory Team:   Andrew Hamilton, Tim Waters

Project description

Delicate objects must be packaged to mitigate against damage due to shock and vibration exposure during transit. Many standard solutions are available for high-volume, comparatively low-value goods. However, some transported objects – such as museum artefacts, instrumentation, or medical goods – are unique, particularly fragile and/or irreplaceable, warranting bespoke packaging solutions. This project will develop the capability to design and 3D print packaging from so-called metamaterials that derive their mechanical properties in-part from the intricate geometry of their porous architecture. Metamaterials have the potential to achieve high performance cushioning and restraint that can be tailored across different directions and orientations, and 3D printing enables their manufacture and conformity to an object’s unique and complex geometry. Computational models will be developed to help understand and design metamaterial packaging solutions that can accommodate the shape and weight of example objects whilst optimising shock and vibration isolation performance. The models will be validated through the use of state-of-the-art material testing facilities whilst both laboratory and field trials will be undertaken to quantify the cushioning provided against typical shock and vibration stimuli.

You will join the Engineering Materials research group in the Department of Mechanical Engineering whilst also being affiliated to the Dynamics research group in the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research.

You will ideally have, or expect to receive, a first class degree or equivalent in a mechanically based engineering subject or in physical sciences.You will have a proven track record in planning and conducting detailed experiments together with some prior experience of computer modelling and coding such as Python or Matlab.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Andrew Hamilton, Engineering Materials Research Group, Email: [Email Address Removed], Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 8697

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 31 August 2024 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £18,622 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years.

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk). Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Andrew Hamilton

Applications should include:

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: [Email Address Removed]

The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.