Supervisory Team: Khong Wui Gan (UoSM), Suan Hui Pu (UoSM), Andrew Hamilton (UoS), Meisam Jalalvand (UoS)
Project description
Graphene is known to have high specific surface area and excellent thermal/electrical conductivity, which sees itself in applications such as wearable electronic and energy storage. Recently a graphenic nano-materials called laser-induced graphene (LIG) has been widely investigated due to its easy, cost-effective and scalable synthesis. LIG is produced through a one-step laser treatment of commercial polyimide (PI) film substrate under an ambient atmosphere. However, the potential of LIG for use in technological applications is limited by its weak adherence on the PI substrates. In order to realise the full potential of LIG, it is necessary to preserve the LIG flakes’ connectivity and robustness. One way is to infuse it with other materials such as plastic and rubber. In this project we propose to embed LIG in fibre-reinforced composites as smart sensors for health monitoring. The excellent thermal and electrical conductivity of LIG offers an extremely versatile and wide-range sensing platform which can be exploited to provide information on the stress state or health conditions of a composite structure. The work will be primarily experimental, with the following work packages: (1) optimisation of the sensitivity of LIG’s properties to external environment, (2) integration of LIG in fibre-reinforced composites, and (3) testing and validation of the sensing system at the composite component level.
The University of Southampton is a member of the Russell Group and ranked in the world’s top 100 universities. You will have a unique multicultural split-campus experience to carry out doctoral research in smart/multifunctional composite materials and sensors. The PhD project will be based mainly in the University of Southampton Malaysia Campus, but you will spend a year in the Southampton UK campus. The funding available is competitive and will only be awarded to an outstanding applicant. As part of the selection process, the strength of the whole application is taken into account, including academic qualifications, personal statement, CV and references.
Entry Requirements
A very good Master’s degree (or its international equivalent) in a science or engineering discipline. Applicants without a Master’s qualification may be considered if they hold a first-class undergraduate degree.
Closing date: Applications should be received no later than 31 August 2021 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.
Funding: No nationality restrictions on the applicants. The funding will cover tuition fees and stipends of £15,681 tax-free per annum (in the UK) and MYR30,000 tax-free per annum (in Malaysia) for up to 3.5 years.
The funding available is competitive and will only be awarded to an outstanding applicant. As part of the selection process, the strength of the whole application is taken into account, including academic qualifications, personal statement, CV and references.
How To Apply
Applications should be made online. Select programme type (Research), 2021/22, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Khong Gan.
Applications should include:
Curriculum Vitae
Two reference letters
Degree Transcripts to date
Apply online: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/how-to-apply/postgraduate-applications.page
For further information please contact: [Email Address Removed]
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