Investigating Nanoscale Network Polymer Degradation

Network polymers are widely deployed as the matrix in structural composites and high-performance pigmented protective coatings. Surprisingly however, many fundamental aspects of how the properties and structure of these materials degrade upon exposure to the environment remains unknown. In addition to the urgent need to address environmental concerns about polymer pollution, defining these mechanisms is central to optimising and predicting the performance lifetime of these materials.

Historically, understanding the nanoscale and molecular-level processes at work within these highly cross-linked, insoluble materials has presented a significant challenge. In Manchester, we have recently begun to gain new insights into this problem by leveraging the insights provided by novel sub-diffraction limit infrared spectroscopy and chemical mapping techniques (Nano-IR) to explore how the nanostructure and local chemistry of these materials controls the long-term water sorption and extent of oxidation.

The overall goal of this project is to use these advanced scanning probe microscopy techniques to develop a predictive framework for localised failure at the surface of epoxy and polyurethane composite materials upon outdoor exposure. This will be done by linking polymer precursor binding at the pigment/filler surface to the heterogeneous chemical structure of the hardened matrix, which will, in turn, be correlated the initiation of water and UV-induced damage during accelerated weathering.

The project will be based at the University of Manchester in the Department of Materials – Metallurgy and Corrosion. The Ph.D. student will be embedded in a dynamic research environment located in the new Engineering building, with unrivalled access to facilities including purpose built state-of-the-art corrosion laboratories, electron and scanning probe microscopy suites, and extensive polymer and surface characterisation capabilities.

Eligibility

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline.

Funding

At Manchester we offer a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level, to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers applying for competition and self-funded projects.

For more information, visit our funding page or search our funding database for specific scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor(s) for this project before you apply.

How to apply

Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-fap

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• English Language certificate (if applicable)
• Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it. 

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk.

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).