Fully funded PhD Studentship in Development of methods to evaluate dynamic fracture toughness of metallic materials at very high loading rate under conditions of limited plastic deformation.

A full PhD studentship, to commence in January 2019 or as soon as possible, on the development of methods to evaluate dynamic fracture toughness of metallic materials at very high loading rate under conditions of limited plastic deformation. The project is led by Professor Pedro Rivera at the Department of Engineering, Lancaster University, in collaboration with The Welding Institute (TWI). This research will develop a new method to analyse dynamic fracture toughness tests obtained using a high loading rate servo-hydraulic test machine. The research would utilise both experimental and numerical modelling techniques to establish the behaviour of three point bend specimens under dynamic loading and particularly the crack driving force versus time relationships. You will collaborate with colleagues at Lancaster University and TWI partners, and will be actively involved in meetings, workshops and conferences.

Project synopsis:
Dynamic fracture of experimental laboratory specimens is commonly associated with significant inertial effects manifest as large oscillations within the load- displacement record. These oscillations mask the true deformation path of the material and the associated time dependent variations of crack driving force.

This research PhD would develop a new method to analyse dynamic fracture toughness tests obtained using a high loading rate servo-hydraulic test machine. The research would utilise both experimental and numerical modelling techniques to establish the behaviour of three point bend specimens under dynamic loading and particularly the crack driving force versus time relationships.
Novel methods are to be developed for detecting crack initiation and the magnitude of the J integral with time. The research will utilise modern experimental measurement methods and dynamic material modelling techniques to define the point of fracture initiation.
The study will focus on the behaviour of high strength metallic materials and the outcome will assess the adequacy of current dynamic fracture toughness measurement procedures in light of the new findings. Adopting existing thermostatistical approaches to plastic deformation, a parametric analysis of strain rate dependent deformation will be performed. A dataset of materials properties parameters will be performed to describe plasticity at high strain rates. With such parameters, the research will provide recommendations to improve test guidance so that more accurate measurements of toughness may be made when significant inertial effects are encountered. This will be of prime importance to applications where the material resistance to crack initiation may be low but the safety margins are of critical importance.

Qualifications and experience:
• The minimum academic requirement for admission is an upper second class UK honours degree at the level of MSci, MEng, MPhys, MChem etc, or a lower second with a good Master’s, (or overseas equivalents) in a relevant subject.
• A strong background in plasticity and dislocation theory is required.
• Knowledge of statistical thermodynamics and physical metallurgy is essential.
• Computer programming skills are essential for the post.
• You must have excellent interpersonal skills, work effectively in a team and have experience of the preparation of presentations, reports or journal papers to the highest levels of quality.

Application procedure:
For informal enquiries, please contact Professor Pedro Rivera ([Email Address Removed]), LPW/Royal Academy of Engineering Research Chair, Department of Engineering, Lancaster University.
To make an application, please send a cover letter and a copy of your CV together with your application form to My Applications through the link below.

We welcome applications from people in all diversity groups.

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