The project aims to develop the multifunctional thermoplastic composite with improvement of their mechanical, electrical and thermal properties. The work would explore the design of thermoplastic composite by cellular sandwich structures as well as hybrid laminate with metal
layers. Inkjet printing will be co-developed with functional nanomaterials identified for multifunctionalities. The finite element modelling will be developed to help design and analyse the mechanical and coupled electrical and thermal behaviours for such composites. The recycling and reuse of developed multifunctional thermoplastic composite will be demonstrated and tested at the end of project to prove their potentials and impacts on the various industrial applications with extended life cycles.
The thermoplastic composites have been estimated to keep growing up to $1.2bn by 2024 in the UK, which has been highlighted as the future composite materials to replace the existing thermoset composite due to their recyclability and reuse potentials and easier storage and shorter
manufacturing cycles. In addition, the thermoplastic composites demonstrated the improved mechanical properties such as excellent fatigue and damage tolerance and lower moisture absorption. Therefore, thermoplastic composites have been categorised for future aerospace, automotive and offshore wind energy applications. This project will further accelerate the thermoplastic composites’ market in the UK through exploring their multifunctionalities on manufacturing, joining, service and recycling and reuse phases. The successfully outcomes would align with zero carbon emission strategy by the UK government with development of circular economy.
Qualifications & Eligibility
We’re looking for exceptional students, with at least a high 2:1 Honours degree, from across all engineering and science subjects, desirable with background of Mechanical, Materials and Chemical Engineering. In particular, the experiences in thermoplastic composite, nanomaterials, computational modelling, composite processing and recycling, inkjet printing, topology for cellular structure design and structural design and integration for multifunctional composite.
The ideal candidate will have a good understanding of engineering and design principles as well as interests in materials, manufacturing and numerical modelling. They will be a motivated and dynamic person, with a demonstrable capability to conduct independent research.
Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of proficiency to IELTS 6.5 with minimum score 5.5 in each band or equivalent.
Application process
A completed University of Chester Postgraduate Research Degree application form including contact details of two referees. Candidates
should apply online by clicking the button below and quoting reference number as above.
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