An opportunity is available to undertake a fully-funded PhD in synthetic organic chemistry.
The project, in collaboration with AWE, will explore novel materials and methods for the production of explosives. Synthesis and testing of the energetic materials studied will be performed at Cranfield University’s dedicated explosives laboratories situated at the Defence Academy of the UK, giving access to specialised synthetic, analytical, formulation, and testing capabilities.
Plasticisers are commonly added to explosive formulations to improve the mechanical properties and safety profile of the product. Energetic plasticisers are of particular interest due to the increase in performance available when compared with inert alternatives. A number of plasticisers remain in use due to historical reasons, despite problems such as hazardous production processes, poor performance, toxicity, or instability. These considerations lead to an urgent need for both improved production routes and alternative plasticisers.
The project will consist of the development of scalable flow chemistry routes to both known energetic plasticisers and novel energetic plasticisers for explosive formulations. In addition to the synthetic research carried out, plasticisers produced during the project will be characterised and evaluated for their suitability as additives. This will include assessment of their energetic output, explosive behaviour, ageing and migration studies, and the hazard properties and performance of binder formulations.
While applicants are required to possess a sound understanding of synthetic chemistry and strong practical laboratory skills, training in equipment use and the synthesis and handling of energetic materials will be provided. It is expected that the real-world applicability of the topic, coupled with the freedom to investigate a variety of molecular targets, will afford opportunities to publish results in high-impact journals and present at industrial and academic conferences.
Cranfield Defence and Security (CDS) provide unique educational opportunities to the Defence and security sectors of both public and private sector organisations.
Based at the UK Defence Academy at Shrivenham in Oxfordshire and at Cranfield University Bedfordshire, CDS is the academic provider to the UK Ministry of Defence for postgraduate education at the Defence Academy, training in engineering, science, acquisition, management and leadership.
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