Design and performance of high volume - low carbon printing materials for 3DCP and hybrid manufacturing processes

3-D concrete printing and the latest hybrid manufacturing processes (using robotic milling and finishing processes with concrete printing) are new digitally driven automated construction technologies that can be seen in manufacturing buildings worldwide. These processes have huge potential to address the challenge of net-zero construction manufacturing, but we need to understand how to do this and where the technical challenges are.

This PhD is part of a cohort of five PhDs focused on answering this question. It will bring together the disciplines of life-cycle analysis and circular economy, structural engineering, manufacturing engineering, and material science.

You will work together and develop as a team and your combined research will inform a roadmap of improvement that will influence these technologies worldwide.

This studentship will focus on developing new printing mortars and concretes using different aggregates, binders and exploring methods for improving printed material performance, maximising manufacturing speeds and volumes and developing material models for implementation in design tools.

Study interests should include: materials science, rheology, concretes, mortars, pumping, mixing, cement chemistry, mix design, construction materials, civil engineering, and automated placement.

The successful candidate is likely to have a background in materials, civil engineering, and/or process engineering.

Supervisors

Primary supervisor: Prof. Richard Buswell

Entry requirements for United Kingdom

Applicants should have or expect to achieve a 2:1 or first-class honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in a relevant discipline. A relevant master’s degree and/or employment experience will be an advantage.

English language requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Find out more about research degree funding

How to apply

All applications should be made online and must include a research proposal. Under the programme name, select 'School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering'. Please quote the advertised reference number ABCE/Hybrid-3DCP/2 in your application and ensure you submit the minimum supporting documents. For more guidance, see also the studentship assessment criteria.

Apply now