Adhesion of powders to metal surfaces during compaction

Adhesion of powders to the surfaces of tooling used for compaction of pharmaceuticals, detergents, food, catalysts, ceramics, etc. is a severe manufacturing problem. The aim of this project is to develop a fundamental understanding of this long standing practical problem, which is commonly known in industry as “sticking”. The project will examine a new hypotheses requiring fundamental research into adhesion of materials to surfaces. The methodology includes detailed analysis of the deformation, sliding and adhesion of particles in the vicinity of tool surfaces during the compression of powders together with careful experimentation to obtain material parameters (e.g. particle properties, including size, shape, elastic and plastic deformation, breakage, thermal properties, crystallinity and amorphous content, surface energy etc.) that evolve as a function of processing conditions.

Entry requirements

A UK 1^st class honours degree or upper second class honours degree or overseas equivalent in mechanical engineering, materials science, physics, or other relevant subjects.

The project requires background in thermo-mechanical behaviour and surface science.

Informal enquiries

For informal enquiries please contact Prof. I.C. Sinka on [Email Address Removed]

For application enquiries, please contact the Engineering PGR Administrator on [Email Address Removed]. 

How to apply

Please refer to https://le.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/funded-opportunities/engineeering-sinka-2021

Eligibility

Open to Home/EU and International. International students please note funding section above.