In situ X-ray imaging of solidification and deformation mechanisms in Fe based alloys

Iron based structural alloys are crucial for almost all industrial sectors, including automotive, maritime through to production of wind powered turbines. The thermo-mechanical processing pathways adopted for Fe alloys used in these applications are in majority of the cases established empirically, and several aspects of very high temperature (just below solidus) deformation has not been fully understood. For example, there is lack of understanding of the:

• Kinetics of phase transformations, especially the nucleation and growth dynamics
• Influence of the evolution of phases on the high temperature deformation behaviour.
• Impact of phase evolution and deformation on final properties.

The objectives of the proposed project are to perform experiments and analyses to investigate 1 and 2. The prospective student will use in situ X-ray imaging and diffraction to capture and analyse the microstructure evolution in Fe based FCC austenitic alloys at high temperature (just below solidus). These investigations will be performed on different types of alloys, interstitial (Fe-C base alloys) and microalloyed (Fe-X (X=Nb, Ti, V, Mo, Zr) steels.

In first part of this project, the student will identify a select few compositions from the different alloy classes, where the resulting microstructure will be single phase solid solution. The alloys will be either supplied by one of our industrial partners or us and they will be hot rolled to achieve a refined grain size (~30 µm).

The investigation will be performed using simultaneous in situ high temperature X-ray imaging+diffraction investigation on the manufactured alloys to capture the kinetics of phase evolution, lattice strains, dislocation density, and texture evolution at high temperature. You will first image microstructure evolution during solidification process of iron-C alloys, then using diffraction determine the effect of phase evolution on strain and cracking behaviour.

Entry requirements
Applicants are required to hold/or expect to obtain a UK Bachelor Degree 2:1 or better in a relevant subject. The University of Leicester English language requirements apply where applicable.

How to apply
The online application and supporting documents are due by Monday 21st January 2019.

Any applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted for the studentship scheme.

References should arrive no later than Monday 28th January 2019.

Applicants are advised to apply well in advance of the deadline, so that we can let you know if anything is missing from your application.

Required Materials:

1. Online application form
2. Two academic references
3. Transcripts
4. Degree certificate/s (if awarded)
5. Curriculum Vitae
6. CSE Studentship Form
7. English language qualification

Applications which are not complete by the deadline will not be considered for the studentship scheme. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure the application form and documents are received by the relevant deadlines.

All applications must be submitted online, along with the supporting documents as per the instructions on the website.

Please ensure that all email addresses, for yourself and your referees, are correct on the application form.

Project / Funding Enquiries
Application enquiries to [Email Address Removed]
Closing date for applications – 21st January 2019