About the Project
This project aims at developing a fundamental understanding on the performance of energy tunnels. This is attempted through the development of a heat transfer finite element model using some specific software (eg, Abaqus and Ansys). The research will provide further insight into the short and long term response of operational energy tunnels to ensure the suitability of the GSHP system installed.
Candidates should have (or expect to achieve) a UK honours degree at 2.1 or above (or equivalent) in Civil/Geotechnical/Thermal Engineering.
The successful candidate will have a good understanding in the fields of soil mechanics, heat transfer, computer simulation, as well as have expertise in the relevant tools, such as Comsol Multiphysics /Anasys/Abaqus.
Knowledge of: Soil mechanics, heat transfer, numerical analysis
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
• Apply for Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering
• State name of the lead supervisor as the Name of Proposed Supervisor
• State ‘Self-funded’ as Intended Source of Funding
• State the exact project title on the application form
When applying please ensure all required documents are attached:
• All degree certificates and transcripts (Undergraduate AND Postgraduate MSc-officially translated into English where necessary)
• Detailed CV
Informal inquiries can be made to Dr Yi Rui (yi.rui@abdn.ac.uk), with a copy of your curriculum vitae and cover letter. All general enquiries should be directed to the Postgraduate Research School (pgrsadmissions@abdn.ac.uk)
It is possible to undertake this project entirely by distance learning. Interested parties should discuss this with Dr Rui.
Funding Notes
References
Cui, S., Liu, P., Wang, X., Cao, Y., & Ye, Y. (2017). Experimental study on deformation of concrete for shotcrete use in high geothermal tunnel environments. Computers and Concrete, 19(5), 443-449.
Rui, Y., & Yin, M. (2017). Thermo-hydro-mechanical coupling analysis of a thermo-active diaphragm wall. Canadian Geotechnical Journal, 55(5), 720-735.
Rui, Y., & Yin, M. (2017). Investigations of pile–soil interaction under thermo-mechanical loading. Canadian Geotechnical Journal, 55(7), 1016-1028.
Rui, Y., & Soga, K. (2018). Thermo-hydro-mechanical coupling analysis of a thermal pile. Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers-Geotechnical Engineering, 172(2), 155-173.
Nicholson, Duncan P., et al. "The design of thermal tunnel energy segments for Crossrail, UK." Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers-Engineering Sustainability. Vol. 167. No. 3. Thomas Telford Ltd, 2014.
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