The department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Bath is inviting applications for the following fully funded PhD project, expected to commence in January 2023, or another date by supervisor approval.
Project
The aerospace sector is on a cusp between production of aircraft parts that store kerosene (or Sustainable Aviation Fuel) and zero carbon-emitting aircraft which carry batteries or alternative fuels such as hydrogen. Manufacture has focused on incrementally improving structural efficiency and productivity of the semi-monocoque parts which make up the wing, fuselage and tail, with a degree of linkage between fuel tank boundaries and structural function. Next-generation aircraft will require energy storage based on fully integrated materials, manufacturing and structural solutions accounting for environmental conditions associated with new energy sources. These will include batteries for Urban Air Mobility and small short-range aircraft, and liquid hydrogen for larger aircraft (ati.org.uk/flyzero).
Carbon fibre composites provide better specific stiffness than metals, making them more favourable for thin-walled applications such as hydrogen storage tanks. However, the significant challenges associated with safe cryogenic storage at -253 °C (the normal boiling point of liquid hydrogen) must be overcome. The sector currently lacks experience and capacity in the design, manufacture and testing of cryogenic tanks suitable for large-scale application in aerospace. A concerted increase in research effort and growth in capacity to characterise and understand the effects of hydrogen on composite materials at micro-, meso- and macro-scales is imperative to meet 2050 emission targets in aviation.
This PhD will investigate the fundamental mechanics of composite materials at cryogenic temperatures. New test protocols will be created for material characterisation at micro (fibre) scale and at meso (ply and laminate) scale. Test data will be used to create numerical finite element models which can be applied at higher length scales as part of the CerTest (composites-certest.com/) Digital Certification consortium.
Candidate Requirements
Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, an undergraduate Masters first class degree or MSc distinction (or non-UK equivalent).
Experience of composite mechanics, Finite element simulation and/or mechanical testing experience would be very beneficial. However, it is not necessarily essential and we encourage applications from engineering, materials and physics backgrounds.
Non-UK applicants must meet our English language entry requirement.
Enquiries and Applications
Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to members of the project team (Prof Richard Butler - [Email Address Removed], Prof Chris Bowen - [Email Address Removed], Dr Andrew Rhead - [Email Address Removed])
Formal applications should be made via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering
More information about applying for a PhD at Bath may be found on our website.
Funding Eligibility
To be eligible for funding, you must qualify as a Home student. The eligibility criteria for Home fee status are detailed and too complex to be summarised here in full; however, as a general guide, the following applicants will normally qualify subject to meeting residency requirements: UK nationals (living in the UK or EEA/Switzerland), Irish nationals (living in the UK or EEA/Switzerland), those with Indefinite Leave to Remain and EU nationals with pre-settled or settled status in the UK under the EU Settlement Scheme). This is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Additional information may be found on our fee status guidance webpage, on the GOV.UK website and on the UKCISA website.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We value a diverse research environment and aim to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated and respected. We welcome and encourage applications from under-represented groups.
If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement.
Keywords
Composites, hydrogen, cryogenics, mechanical testing, Finite Element analysis
This advert will be withdrawn if a suitable candidate is found before the closing date.
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