Synchrotron X-ray inline monitoring of Laser Additive Manufacturing processes using a Machine Learning approach

Laser additive manufacturing (LAM; laser 3D printing) is a key underpinning technology for the digital revolution (Industry 4.0), producing complex objects directly from 3D CAD drawings. LAM has incredible potential in rapid prototyping for aerospace, energy, and biomedical applications. Exciting opportunities arise in this research space to create components with exceptional mechanical performance and unique properties using alloy design and process control approaches. However, due to the transient nature of the process, the understanding of LAM is limited through traditional post-mortem analysis, necessitating in-situ characterization. Synchrotron X-ray techniques have only been implemented in LAM research recently but have shown huge advantages over traditional techniques in capturing, both in real and reciprocal space, the LAM processes, evidenced by a series of publications in Science and Nature.

Our research group has pioneered the research field of Synchrotron X-ray investigation of LAM processes. Dr. Chen has developed a series of world-first additive manufacturing machines (both Powder Bed Fusion and blown powder Directed Energy Deposition) that work on synchrotron beamlines at the Diamond Light Source (UK), European Synchrotron Radiation Facilities (France), and Advanced Photon Source (USA) which can do in-situ monitoring and quantification of the LAM process.

This project aims to design and implement a machine-learning-based in-line monitoring system that allows the generation of defects-free LAM components that process unique mechanical properties. In this project, the Ph.D. candidate will be provided with an exciting and unique opportunity to work with alloy design and solidification experts, machine learning experts, and synchrotron x-ray material characterization experts. Using in-situ Synchrotron X-ray results as ground truth, the Ph.D. candidate will develop a new approach that will enable fast prediction of defects and microstructure formation on-the-fly during LAM processes. This project has significant industrial and academic potential to fulfill the candidate’s ambition.

The PhD candidate will be based at Advanced Manufacturing Precinct, RMIT University, Australia with long placements at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, France. In addition, the Ph.D. candidate will be supported by more than 10 research institutes and industrial partners across the globe with potential placement opportunities.

How to apply

Please send your cover letter, CV, and academic transcripts to [Email Address Removed] referring to the project title. Please note applications without academic transcripts will not be considered.