M2A Funded EngD Studentship: Corrosion Science of a Model Building to Develop the Next Generation of Prefinished Steels

Swansea University is a UK top 30 institution for research excellence (Research Excellence Framework 2014), and has been named Welsh University of the Year 2017 by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide.

Start date: October 2017

Tata Steel Europe (TSE) is the second largest producer of pre-painted steel in Europe. To maintain this position, the organisation is constantly trying to improve the current product range, either through the development of best in class coatings for the construction industry, improved offerings in service or through added functionality. This project will look to build a model building with all the latest pre-finished steel technology and research the corrosion science and local microclimates of all the different elements and linking this to the polymer chemistry of the different pre-finished steel products assessed. The outcomes of this research will provide fundamental evidence to develop the product guarantees for the market leading pre-finished steels for the construction market.

Project Aims:

The project aims to construct a model building with all the latest pre-finished steel products to develop buildings as power stations, with all common design features, components and different coating options. The corrosivity and micro climates of all parts of the building will be assessed, compared to agreed standards and linked to the performance of the various polymer systems. This is a unique project linking actual real life building design to measured corrosion science and providing factual evidence to develop the product guarantee

The Athena SWAN Charter recognises work undertaken by institutions to advance gender equality. The College of Engineering is an Athena SWAN bronze award holder and is committed to addressing unequal gender representation.

Eligibility

Candidates should hold an Engineering or Physical Sciences degree with a minimum classification level of 2:1 or equivalent relevant experience. This project would be suitable for someone with a degree in materials or chemistry, with an interest in sustainability or paint chemistry.

Our funders require applicants to also meet the following eligibility criteria:

- You must be a UK or EU citizen (i.e. eligible for ‘home’ tuition fees at the University) and have the right to work in Wales at the end of your studies.
- You must be resident in West Wales and the Valleys at the point of enrolment and throughout the duration of your studies.
- You must not be financially able to participate without the award of grant funding.