Multiscale modeling of deformation twinning in Mg alloys - Ref: KB1UF2018

The low density, specific strength, stiffness, castability, machinability, weldability and damping, as well as corrosion of magnesium (Mg) alloys, have resulted in a renaissance of Mg research. The main hurdle in using wrought Mg alloys, for instance in the automotive industry, is their limited room temperature formability compared to aluminum. Magnesium alloys experience poor ductility leading to premature fracture in forming operations, attributed to the relatively small number of deformation modes (compared to e.g. aluminum alloys) that hexagonal close packed (hcp) materials typically exhibit. It is now widely accepted that the deformation twinning serves as an alternative mechanism to accommodate plastic flow.

The emphasis on this project is in capturing twin nucleation and growth as well as detwinning during monotonic and low cycle fatigue loading using state-of-the art computational models. The specific computational tools that will be used in this effort comprise atomistic models of Mg, and crystal plasticity models implemented in a finite element scheme. The atomistic models will be used to study twin thickening and detwinning in pure magnesium. The information obtained will be used in crystal plasticity simulations that account for twin activity locally resolved within grains. The application of this method will focus on single crystals and oligocrystals (crystals with a few grains) to allow for validation of the models against experimental data.

Entry requirements
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Applied Mathematics or a related subject.

A relevant Master’s degree and/or experience in one or more of the following will be an advantage: Mechanical Engineering, Computational Solid Mechanics, Materials Science.

How to apply
All applications should be made online. Under programme name select Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering. Please quote reference number: KB1UF2018