Prof A Kennedy, Dr D Cheneler
Applications accepted all year round
Funded PhD Project (European/UK Students Only)
About the Project
Start date: October 2019
This innovative and challenging Ph.D. project will develop and evaluate a simulation-based platform for the design and testing of multifunctional macro porous materials.
Project detail
For macro porous materials to become ubiquitous, their unique multifunctional properties (such as fluid flow control, sound absorption and heat transfer – combined with mechanical strength and energy absorption capability) need to be exploited. Tensions exist between the need for open structures for functional performance and “mass” for optimum load bearing capacity. Balancing this and optimising the structure (for example porosity, pore size and pore connectivity) is extremely challenging.
This project will develop the tools to create a virtual environment in which to design and test porous structures. The basis is the building of porous structures from adaptable mathematical representations of packed spheres (that can be compressed, dilated and eroded). These virtual structures will then be converted into models for 3D printing (using unique high resolution printers at Lancaster) and their design and the printing process optimised to ensure a good correlation between virtual structure and prototype. Conventional FEA-based simulations of heat flow, fluid flow and mechanical deformation will be applied to virtual structures and physical testing of “3D” printed facsimiles will authenticate the accuracy of this modelling.
The project will deliver original, fundamental research with wide scientific interest and impact. The student will attain wide-ranging skills and expertise in programming, mathematical modelling, 3D design and manufacturing and mechanical and physical property testing.
The project would suit graduates with 1st or upper second class degrees in engineering, materials science, mathematics or physics.
For further information please contact Prof Andrew Kennedy ([Email Address Removed]) https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/engineering/about/people/andrew-kennedy
How to apply
Applications should be made via the Postgraduate Admissions Portal. Once you have created an account you will be able to fill in your personal details, background and upload supporting documentation. The application should make clear that you are applying for this funded project and upload the project described above as the research proposal. Please do also mention the supervisors listed above.
Lancaster University – ensuring equality of opportunity and celebrating diversity.
Funding Notes
The project is fully funded for 3.5 years and UK and EU citizens are eligible to apply. The successful applicant will be paid a tax-free stipend of £15, 009 per year and will join an internationally recognised research group to deliver a novel solution to the design of porous materials.