Applications are invited for a research studentship in the field of Mechanics of Materials leading to the award of a PhD degree. The post is supported by a bursary and fees (at the UK student rate) provided by our research collaborators AWE, Aldermaston, Reading RG7 4PR. As a result of the industrial funding, this studentship will attract a higher bursary (approximately £21,600 pa) than the usual EPSRC student rate. Due to the nature of the work undertaken by AWE, candidates should normally be a British Citizen or a citizen of a NATO country and will be required to undergo security clearance.
Polymer bonded explosives (PBX) are energetic particle filled composite materials with particulate fill fractions approximately 90%. Shear bands in explosives cause local hot spots which may trigger ignition, with immediate implications for safety if so-called high explosive violent reaction (HEVR) ensues. Current continuum solid mechanics codes with typical mesh resolutions struggle to resolve shear bands accurately. The aim of this PhD is to establish robust, mesh-independent methods for modelling shear bands in explosives. These could exploit ad-hoc shear band sub-models which model reaction in the shear band, recently developed on AWE-sponsored PhD projects. The aim is to integrate these sub-models or provide equivalent methods within a continuum mechanics code capable of modelling arbitrary configurations. The proposed 3D Finite Element models including progressive damage are usually very computationally expensive for routine calculations; therefore, the project will also investigate the possibility of using AI and machine learning to speed up modelling, as well as potentially develop a deeper insight regarding features in the microstructure of the PBX or material parameters in the model that lead to higher chances of localised hot spots.
You will be an enthusiastic and self-motivated person who meets the academic requirements for enrolment for the PhD degree at Imperial College London. You will have a 1st or 2:1 class honours degree in mechanical engineering, mathematics, physics, or a related subject, and an enquiring and rigorous approach to research together with a strong intellect and disciplined work habits. An interest in Mechanics of Materials is essential. Good team-working, observational and communication skills are essential.
To find out more about research at Imperial College London in this area, go to:
https://www.imperial.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering/research/mechanics-of-materials/composites-adhesives-and-soft-solids/soft-solids/projects/
For information on how to apply, go to:
http://www.imperial.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering/study/phd/how-to-apply/
For further details of the post contact Prof Maria Charalambides. m.charalambides @imperial.ac.uk +44 (0)20 75947246. Interested applicants should send an up-to-date curriculum vitae to Prof Charalambides. Suitable candidates will be required to complete an electronic application form at Imperial College London in order for their qualifications to be addressed by College Registry.
Closing date: until post filled
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