Project Ref: JWS2023-BS
Urban environments are generally packed with concrete structures and roads, with considerably less green space. Moreover, the construction of concrete structures is generally labour intensive and relies heavily on the use of formwork and shuttering, which generates not only high embodied energy but also a large amount of waste materials. The recent developments in 3D printing technology can provide a sustainable alternative to this traditional construction process, allowing to produce more efficient, geometrically complex structural forms that use less amount of concrete than an equivalent prismatically moulded section, thereby offering the potential for significant embodied carbon and energy reductions. In addition, the flexibility in 3D printing design and manufacture can allow natural vegetation to be integrated during the design and construction phases.
This PhD project will design and manufacture non-structural and structural concrete components, combining low-embodied carbon cementitious materials with the 3D printing and digital technologies developed recently at Heriot-Watt University. This project also aims to bringing in greenery to the built environment, thereby rendering it more harmonious with the natural environment. The primary method of approach will therefore draw on aspects of nature and integrate functional materials to create composite structures with added functionalities. The first stage of investigation will involve a systematic experimental and numerical study into the interrelationships between structural geometry, fresh properties and printing process, and the selection of suitable natural vegetation for the above purpose, without compromising the long-term performance of the substrate materials. This will then be followed by detailed investigations into the engineering properties of the printed substrates from initial printing and throughout long-term hardening, using appropriate sensors and monitoring techniques whilst also monitoring the growth of the planted areas. Structural design and analysis will also be undertaken to create optimised geometry that results in efficient structures with less use of materials.
Eligibility
This scholarship is available to Home and Overseas students. The successful candidate will be based on campus in Edinburgh.
To be eligible, applicants should have a first-class honours degree in a relevant subject or a 2.1 honours degree plus Masters (or equivalent experience. Scholarships will be awarded by competitive merit, taking into account the academic ability of the applicant.
We recognise that not every talented researcher will have had the same opportunities to advance their careers. We therefore will account for any particular circumstances that applicants disclose (e.g. parental leave, caring duties, part-time jobs to support studies, disabilities etc.) to ensure an inclusive and fair recruitment process.
How to apply
To apply you must complete our online application form.
Please select Civil Engineering as the programme and include the full project title, reference number (JWS2023-BS) and supervisor name on your application form. You will also need to provide a CV, a supporting statement (1-5 A4 pages) outlining your suitability and how you would approach the project, a copy of your degree certificate(s) and relevant transcripts and an academic reference.
You must also provide proof of your ability in the English language (if English is not your mother tongue or if you have not already completed a degree that was taught in English within the last 2 years). We require an IELTS certificate showing an overall score of at least 6.5 with no component scoring less than 6.0 or a TOEFL certificate with a minimum score of 90 points.
Please address informal questions to Dr Benny Suryanto ([Email Address Removed])
If you have any general queries about the applications process, please contact [Email Address Removed]
Timeline
The closing date for applications is 17th April 2023 and applicants must be available to start in September 2023.