A novel Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing) process for polymers

Additive Manufacturing (AM), commonly known as 3D Printing, has seen a major increase in uptake over the past decade; these processes are capable of creating highly complex geometries at little or no additional cost, allowing designers and end-users unprecedented design freedom. Powder-based AM in particular has become increasingly attractive to industry, with a number of processes becoming well-established.

While metal-based processes have received substantial attention over the past few years, it is only more recently that the potential of polymer processes has been recognised. Existing processes have their advantages, but each suffer from inherent limitations, restricting their wider-spread application.

This PhD will focus on the development of a novel approach for powdered-polymer AM, centred around the use of a high-density parallel array of individually-addressable semiconductor lasers with wavelengths matched to the peak absorption of the powder being processed. Building on successful trials of this approach for metals, you will work to understand the intricacies of using this method for polymer materials, and identifying the boundaries of this approach. You will then go on to optimise the process to obtain the highest quality parts from a range of materials.

The successful candidate will have or expect to have at least an MEng UK Honours Degree at 2.1 (or equivalent) in mechanical, materials, or electrical and electronic engineering, physics, or other relevant discipline. Some background in optoelectronic devices or applied optics would be a benefit.

You will be based in our Mechanical Engineering department, and will be jointly supervised by Dr Candice Majewski (expertise in polymer AM) and Dr Kristian Groom (expertise in optics and opto-electronics).

To apply please use our standard on-line PhD application form and indicate on your form that you are replying to this advert or email [Email Address Removed] for further guidance on applying.